Page 88 - The Complete Dog Breed Book Choose the Perfect Dog for You, New Edition (DK)

88 GUIDE T O BREED S

High-set tail, High-set Expressive face with
held upright Distinct stop ears with dark brown eyes and
rounded tips wrinkled forehead
Arched neck

Body square Lower jaw
in profile longer than
upper jaw
(undershot)

Short, broad Muscular
muzzle hindquarters

White chest

Tucked-up Smooth,
belly fawn coat

White feet and
lower legs

BOXER

THIS CLEVER, LOYAL, EXUBERANT, AND FUN-LOVING DOG IS IDEAL FOR AN ENERGETIC OWNER AKC

Height range Once a Boxer owner, always a Boxer loyal, affectionate, endearingly attention-
21–25 in (53–63 cm) owner—this German breed is so big on seeking, and a boisterous but tolerant friend
Weight range personality that few who live with it ever for children. This energetic breed suits fit,
55–71 lb (25–32 kg)
look at another type of dog. The Boxer in active owners, as it retains its high spirits
Life span 10–14 years its modern form was developed in the 19th and playfulness into late maturity. Almost
Origin Germany century, and its ancestry is thought to include any sort of fun keeps a Boxer happy but,
mastiff-type dogs such as the Bulldog (see ideally, it requires a good 2-hour walk
p.94) and the Great Dane (see p.95). Powerful every day with plenty of scope for romping
and athletic, it was bred primarily for fighting around in the open. At home, given its
Other colors and bull-baiting, but was also used for farm stamina and curiosity, a Boxer enjoys a
work, haulage, and hunting and holding down large yard where it has space to roam
large game such as wild boar. Because of its and interesting corners to explore.
endurance and courage, the breed is used This highly intelligent dog can be a handful
Black brindle
today as a police and military search-and- to train but is obedient, provided it receives
White markings should
not exceed a third of the rescue dog and for guard work. calm and consistent commands and clear
coat color. The Boxer’s history; its proud, upstanding leadership. With early socializing, a Boxer
attitude; and its forward-thrusting jaw give is likely to get along well with any other pets
the impression of an intimidating dog. While in the family, although out on walks, its
it can certainly be protective of home and hunting instincts may be aroused if there are
family, it makes a wonderful companion. It is birds or small animals to chase.

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