Boxers are descended from various larger breeds, some related to Mastiffs. The breed was carefully developed in Germany using Bulldogs and some Terriers. Unfortunately, Boxers were used in the cruel sports of dogfighting and bullbaiting, which are now against the law. Today, Boxers are well-mannered show dogs and loving family companions.

Boxers particularly love children. They are playful and patient, but are also strong and defensive, so early obedience training is important.

The Boxer is well known for the coat colors of fawn or brindle, both of which can be various shades. Boxers usually have some white markings and a black mask on their face. A quick weekly brushing takes care of their grooming needs.

Excerpts from the standard

General Appearance: A squarely built, medium-sized dog with clean, hard muscles under a tight skin. Proud, agile, alert, loyal, courageous.

Size, Proportion, and Substance: Height—males, 22 1/2 to 25 inches; females,
21 to 23 1/2 inches.

Fun Facts

The Boxer is a playful and fun-loving dog, who is also capable of communicating his feelings with his face. His twinkling black eyes show his intelligence and emotions. His face wrinkles up into expressions of curiosity, excitement, happiness, surprise, or sadness. Often he copies the emotional expressions of his human companion.

Boxers were named after their habit of fighting. At the beginning of a fight with another dog, a Boxer would stand up on his hind legs and bat at his opponent, appearing to “box” with his front paws. Dogfighting is now illegal.

Excerpted from The Complete Dog Book For Kids © 1996, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.