Breed Focus: Boxer

Very sturdy, handsome breed (Image Source)

Boxers are another very well-known and well-loved breed. They typically have fun loving and goofy personalities. This explains why they are consistently in the top 10 dog breeds according to the AKC ranking. Originally bred for hunting down large game, which helps explain their very sturdy build. They can be very loyal to their family and should be socialized at young age to expose them to different people and prevent aggression from developing. They require very little grooming, but will need regular exercise to keep their energy in check.

 

It is very hard to say no to their cute puppy faces! (Image Source)

Although their bodies have a very sturdy build, there are many health problems that you need to be aware of before bringing a boxer into your home. It is another good reason to screen the breeding stock if you are thinking of purchasing a puppy.  Boxers are very prone to heart disease, there are several different conditions and many have genetic links so ensure that the parents of your puppy have been cleared of any heart disease. This will help minimize the risk of future issues. As a large deep chested dog they are also prone to bloating and stomach torsion. Remember to feed slowly, avoid exercise and rough playing after eating as well as elevating their food bowl can help minimize the risk. As with many large breed dogs they also can have issues with their hips and elbows. Keeping them at  lean weight and ensuring that the parents were clear from issues will help decrease the risk posed to your puppy. Another big thing to remember is that Boxers do seem to be more prone to certain types of cancers and at younger ages. These include mast cell tumors, hemangiosarcoma and lymphoma. Again regular checkups with your veterinarian can help. Also with boxers any lump or bump should be assessed regularly.

 

This image just says I'm ready for a good time! (Image Source)

While this may seem like a lot of reasons NOT to get a boxer. There are many reasons to consider them. They really are funny and charismatic with their family. Their antics can keep you laughing for a long time. With proper training and regularly veterinary visits they could make a great addition to your family. For more information please visit the following websites here and here.