Page 92 - (DK) The Dog Encyclopedia

CATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Boxer

HEIGHT WEIGHT LIFE SPAN Gold
21–25in 55–71lb 10–14 years Black brindle High-set
(53–63cm) (25–32kg) White markings should not exceed a third of coat color. tail, held
upright

This clever, loyal, exuberant, and fun-loving dog is ideal
for an energetic owner who enjoys an outdoor life

Once a Boxer-owner, always a Boxer- into late maturity. Almost any sort of fun
owner—this German breed is so big on keeps a Boxer happy but, ideally, it needs
personality that few who live with it ever a good two-hour walk every day with
look at another type of dog. The Boxer plenty of room for romping around in the
in its modern form was developed in the open. At home, given its stamina and
19th century, and its ancestry is thought curiosity, a Boxer enjoys a large yard
to include mastiff-type dogs such as the where it has space to roam and
Great Dane (see p.96) and the Bulldog interesting corners to explore.
(see p.95). Powerful and athletic, it was bred This highly intelligent dog can be a
primarily for fighting and bullbaiting, but handful to train but is obedient provided
Muscular
was also used for farm work, hauling, and it receives calm and consistent commands hindquarters
for hunting and holding down large game and clear leadership. With early socializing,
such as wild boar. Because of its endurance a Boxer is likely to get along well with any
and courage, the breed is used today as a other pets in the family, although out on
police and military search and rescue dog walks its hunting instincts may
and for guard work. be aroused if there are birds
The Boxer’s history, its proud, upstanding or small animals to chase.
attitude, and forward-thrusting jaw give
the impression of an intimidating dog,
and certainly it can be protective of home
and family, but it makes a wonderful
companion. It is loyal, affectionate,
endearingly attention-seeking, and a
boisterous but tolerant friend for children.
This energetic breed suits fit, active owners
since it keeps its high spirits and playfulness PUPPY

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

There are several stories about how the Boxer
got its name—the most charming, but also the
most unlikely, is based on the observation that
these dogs, when meeting, often stand on their
hind legs and use their front feet to push against
one another. An Englishman, upon seeing this,
said it reminded him of prize fighters sparring
and so called the dogs “Boxers.” Historically, the
dogs were used as fighting dogs and it is this fact
that is more likely to account for their name.

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