Dog breeds with photos Boxer. German boxer: description of the breed and character traits. Boxer types: American, German, brindle

Boxers, due to their unusual, somewhat terrifying appearance, have undeservedly received a reputation as a dangerous and aggressive breed. In this article I will consider the description, characteristics, character traits and exterior of the dog. I’ll tell you how to properly keep a dog, feed and train these animals.

This breed was developed by German breeders in the 19th century in Germany. The main ancestors are two currently extinct breeds, Bullenbeitzer and Berenbeitzer. The first ones were used for baiting bulls in battles and had incredible grip and strength.

Berenbaitser were excellent hunting dogs and were used to hunt bears and wild boars. Another “relative” of the boxer is the English bulldog, who had incredible fighting qualities. As a result of careful selection and breeding, the first boxer registered in the breed register, Floki, appeared.

The first breed standard appeared in 1902.

Appearance can be characterized by a muscular, strong build, a square body and a powerful chest.

• Height at withers: males – 27-30 cm, females – 25-27 cm.
• Weight: females - 25 kg, males - 30 kg.
• Head: large, proportional to the body.
• Muzzle: shortened (brachycephalic type of skull), a clear transition from the forehead to the nose, pronounced jowls.
• Eyes: dark, not protruding, dark pigmented mucous membrane.
• Nose: upturned, wide, black.
• Ears: Set high, close to the cheekbones.
• Neck: muscular, not very long.
• Teeth: characteristic of the breed is undershot.
• Limbs: front limbs are smooth, straight, massive, rear limbs are strong and muscular.
• Tail: Set high, straight, of medium length.
• Coat: short, hard, shiny.
• Color: red, brindle, light yellow, brick brown, red brown. With a brindle color, the stripes should contrast well with the main shade, there should be a dark “mask” on the face, white spots are acceptable, but should not occupy more than a third of the body surface.
• Movement: energetic.
• Life expectancy: 11-13 years.

2002, docking the ears and tails of these animals is prohibited by the standard.

This innovation caused a lot of controversy, since docking is a standard procedure used for many breeds, radically changing the appearance of the dog.

Disadvantages, or deviations from the standard, include: too small or large head, uncovered incisors and fangs with a closed mouth, unclear “mask,” sluggish movements.

Boxer types: American, German, brindle

Among breeders, experts and simply lovers of this dog breed, there is a certain division of dogs into varieties.

• German. The only classical type recognized by the International Cynological Federation is the German one. The famous German breed is valued for its versatility. These dogs have excellent guarding qualities, balanced temperament and incredible loyalty. Despite their terrifying appearance, they are absolutely non-aggressive and friendly.
• American. The American Boxer breed does not exist as such. After the end of World War II, German boxers became very popular not only in Europe, but also in the United States. Several puppies were brought by American soldiers from Germany to the United States. The American type differs only in its lighter build and smaller head. In reality, these subtle differences can only be determined by experienced breeders and experts.
• Brindle. The most popular representatives of this breed are dogs with brindle color. This color is characterized by the presence of dark stripes (timber) against the background of the main color provided by the standard. The coat of a brindle boxer should be short, shiny and close to the body. This coat color perfectly emphasizes the sculpted muscles of the boxer’s body.

Rules for keeping and caring for a boxer

These animals do not tolerate heat well, so when walking in hot weather there is a risk of heat stroke, which will lead to the inevitable death of the animal.

In cold weather, your pet should be walked in warm overalls, as these dogs have short, close-fitting hair and no thick undercoat. You need to walk your dog at least twice a day. Animals love outdoor games, so the owner needs to stock up on an arsenal of toys, balls, frisbees and other devices.

In terms of care, they are absolutely picky. Once a week it is necessary to clean your ears and teeth. Do not forget about regular examination of the eyes and mucous membranes for inflammation.

Frequent bathing is undesirable, only in case of severe contamination during walks.

The pet's fur practically does not shed, so once a week it is combed with a special rubber mitten with fine bristles.

The diet should consist of fresh meat, boiled or fresh vegetables, porridge, and dairy products. It is forbidden to feed the animal smoked, flour products, as well as sweets. Animals often suffer from allergies to various components.

It is allowed to feed your pet with ready-made dry food, but its quality must correspond to super-premium class food, not lower. Mixing the two types of feeding is not permissible.

Animal character

Despite their menacing appearance, boxers are very friendly and affectionate animals. Boxers become very attached to their owner and family members. These dogs get along well with small children and will never offend them.

Boxers also quickly get along with other pets. However, outside the house you should not let them near other people's animals.

Boxers treat strangers with caution and distrust. Representatives of this breed are reserved and calm, but when danger arises for the owner, they show all their fighting qualities in all their glory.

Boxers take a long time to “grow up”, so until they reach the age of three they behave like puppies. With insufficient exercise, Boxers can exhibit unwanted behavior, such as damaging furniture, barking for no reason, and aggression.

This dog is not suitable for homebodies, sedentary and overly busy people.

Training

Pet training should begin at 10-12 weeks of age. First of all, the pet must clearly understand that the owner is a leader, a “leader,” otherwise subsequent classes will not yield results. Boxers are easy to train and quickly remember commands.

During the training, the owner needs to be persistent and achieve obedience from the first command. The use of physical punishment is strictly prohibited. Otherwise, you risk a nervous, obstinate or aggressive dog.

Dog health

The average life expectancy of representatives of this breed rarely exceeds 10 years. These animals are predisposed to many diseases that significantly affect their life expectancy:

• oncology,
• hip dysplasia,
• hypothyroidism,
• heart disease,
• breathing problems,
• deafness.

This is not a complete list of diseases. With proper care and feeding, as well as regular visits to the veterinarian, it is possible to reduce the risk of their occurrence.

Basic vaccinations:

• rabies (12-13 weeks),
• plague, parainfluenza type 2, adenovirosis, parvovirus enteritis, leptospirosis (8 weeks),
• revaccination (12-13 weeks),
• further regular vaccination once a year.

How much does a puppy cost?

It is advisable to purchase a boxer puppy from a specialized nursery registered in the RKF.

Here are some of them: “Nikink-Var-Hard” (St. Petersburg), “Ivanhoe” (Moscow), “From Russia with Love” (St. Petersburg).

Approximate prices:

• private individuals - from 5-8 thousand rubles.
• nursery (without further breeding) - 10-20 thousand rubles.
• nursery (puppies with documents, titled parents) - from 60 thousand rubles and above.

When choosing a future pet, you need to pay attention to the appearance of the baby. The puppy must be well-fed and well-groomed. The eyes are shiny and dark, the mucous membranes are clean without inflammation. You should also pay attention to the behavior of the boxer. The puppy should not be lethargic, inactive or timid.

The Boxer is a unique breed of dog that combines excellent guarding qualities, loyalty, friendliness and courage. However, before you decide to get yourself a puppy of this breed, you should think carefully. This breed is ideal for people with an active lifestyle.

Today there are more than four hundred dog breeds in the world. All of them are conventionally divided into several categories, among which there are decorative, hunting and service dogs. Of the animals belonging to the last group, the German boxer is considered the most suitable for keeping in urban conditions. You will learn everything about the breed from today's article.

Brief historical background

Unfortunately, no one can reliably say how many centuries this breed has existed. The ancestors of modern German boxers are considered to be bullenbeissers, who were used for hunting moose, wild boars and even bears for a long period. These dogs held the prey until the owner arrived, rather than killing it. Subsequently, representatives of this breed began to be used to guard farm animals.

The modern German boxer, whose photo will be presented in this publication, appeared at the end of the 19th century. Breed lovers owe its appearance to a resident of Munich named Georg Alt. It was he who came up with the idea of ​​crossing a brindle bullenbeiser with a dog of unknown origin. In the litter born from this mating there was a fawn-white male, who became the founder of the line of German boxers that we see today.

In 1894, three German citizens, about whom nothing is known except their names, decided to work on stabilizing the breed so that it could take its place in the dog show. They managed to do this in Munich. And a year later the first club of German boxers appeared. A few years later, residents of other European countries learned about the breed. And in 1904 it was officially registered by the American Kennel Club.

German boxer: description of the breed

Despite the average size of the body, these are quite strong and massive dogs with well-developed sculpted muscles and a deep chest. They have a square head with a large protruding forehead and a flattened muzzle, on which there is a slightly upturned black nose with fairly wide nostrils. The dog's small almond-shaped eyes should be a dark shade. The powerful jaws have widely spaced fangs.

The German boxer standard presupposes a fairly muscular, not too long neck with a well-defined transition to the withers. The dog should have a straight, strong back with a slight slope to the pelvis, an elastic, tucked belly and straight, widely spaced front legs. The hind limbs of representatives of this breed look longer and more powerful. There should be no folds on the body, except those that form on the forehead and cheeks of the animal.

Males of the German Boxer breed, whose weight ranges from 30-32 kilograms, grow to 57-63 cm. Bitches are slightly smaller. Their height is 53-59 centimeters and their weight is 25-27 kg.

The powerful compact body of these dogs is covered with short, medium-coarse hair. As for color, the standard allows all shades from rich brown to light beige. There must be a dark mask on the animal's face. White spots on the body are not considered a fault of the German Boxer breed. The brindle color is distinguished by the presence of dark stripes distributed over a basic brown background.

Character traits

These are very active, energetic animals, among which phlegmatic people are rarely found. They are quite emotional, so they do not tolerate loneliness well. It is not advisable to keep such dogs in enclosures, much less on a leash. A German boxer, whose description can be seen just above, living surrounded by a large family and children, will distribute his love among all household members.

Representatives of this breed are easy to train. They make good companions and guards. In the process of raising such a dog, it is better to prefer a gentle but firm influence. When rudeness is shown, the boxer begins to withdraw into himself and ignore the owner. However, you should not over-pamper your pet. Otherwise, you risk raising him to be an uncontrollable dog that can cause a lot of trouble.

A properly raised Boxer will be a sensitive, fearless and reliable friend. The special charm of these dogs is manifested in their slightly rude character. They are very persistent and practically insensitive to pain. A well-trained dog can become an excellent bodyguard.

Having chosen the German Boxer breed, you need to be prepared for the fact that these dogs retain childlike spontaneity throughout their entire lives. Even an aging animal will not refuse the opportunity to run, jump or play. In general, these are non-conflict dogs that easily get along with other pets.

It should be noted that representatives of this breed must live indoors. These dogs have very short hair, so they heat up and cool down quickly. Due to this feature, it is recommended to place the German Boxer's bed away from the operating air conditioner and from direct sunlight.

Since Boxers have a lively, active temperament, it is recommended to walk them at least twice a day. Moreover, the duration of each walk should be at least forty minutes. If possible, once a week it is advisable to take your pet to the forest or to a park, where he can frolic to his heart's content. For winter walks, the dog must purchase a special overall that provides reliable protection from frost.

As for care, the German Boxer, whose photo can be seen in today’s article, is considered one of the most unpretentious dogs. His short coat does not require frequent brushing and washing. In case of heavy contamination, simply wipe the animal with a damp towel.

To avoid inflammation of the ears and eyes, hygiene procedures should be performed in a timely manner. About once a month your dog needs to have its nails trimmed. It is recommended to use a special device for this. You should also pay attention to your pet's oral cavity. At least once a week you need to brush your dog’s teeth and examine his gums. If redness is detected, the animal must be shown to a veterinarian.

Nutrition

A properly formulated balanced diet is considered the key to the long life of any dog, regardless of breed. In recent years, dog breeders have had the choice to feed their pets natural products or industrial food. Those who chose the second option need to approach the selection of dry food with all responsibility. Experts recommend carefully studying the composition of such products and giving preference to those that belong to the premium and super-premium class. In this case, you can be sure that, along with dry granules, your German Boxer will receive all the necessary vitamins and microelements.

Those who decide to give their dog exclusively natural products should remember that the ancestors of dogs were wolves, so they are carnivores. But this does not mean that you need to feed the animal only meat. His diet must contain a small amount of grains and a little salt. Meat can be given raw, boiled and semi-cooked. Like any other dogs, they can be given rabbit, beef, lamb and various game. In addition, the Boxer's menu should include vegetables, sea fish, chicken eggs and dairy products. It is best for dogs to cook rice or buckwheat from cereals. In addition, dogs eating natural food should be periodically given vitamin and mineral complexes. However, you should consult your veterinarian before doing this.

Those who want to keep their pet healthy should definitely exclude smoked foods, sweets, salty and fatty treats from their diet. It is important that meat predominates in the dog menu. It should account for about 80% of the total food. Since this breed is prone to intestinal disorders and allergic reactions, they should not be given milk or too many chicken eggs. The dog's food should be warm and not very liquid.

In addition, German Boxers can be given vegetables, including zucchini, cabbage and carrots. Also, their diet should be periodically supplemented with low-fat cottage cheese, kefir, yogurt and homemade yogurt. The daily norm for an average adult representative of this breed is about nine hundred grams, which it is advisable to divide into two or three feedings. As for delicacies, you can use finely chopped cheese or freeze-dried industrial delicacies for these purposes.

Education and training

This simple task requires patience. At the very beginning, you need to pay attention to working out the basic standard commands and only after that you can begin special training.

It is advisable to work with an animal from the first days after its appearance in your home. First of all, German Boxer puppies must learn to respond to their name. After the little pet remembers its own name, you need to move on to learning basic commands. At first, you should not overload the animal too much, as the puppy quickly gets tired and begins to get distracted. The first lessons can be conducted in a playful way.

During the training process, you need to take into account that some individuals are characterized by increased stubbornness. Therefore, it is advisable to begin active training with puppies of this breed as early as four months of age.

What diseases are boxers prone to?

Despite their impressive appearance, representatives of this breed are susceptible to various ailments. These dogs have a fairly sensitive immune system, so they are prone to developing allergic reactions. This problem can only be avoided with the help of a proper, well-balanced diet. Such dogs are strictly forbidden to give food from the human table.

Like all large breeds, the German Boxer is prone to hip dysplasia. This disease affects the musculoskeletal system, so the dog may experience pain and begin to limp. Most often, its appearance is associated with excess weight, so it is very important not to overfeed the animal.

Plus, most representatives of this breed have a very sensitive gastrointestinal tract. Eating too large portions or eating the wrong foods can cause serious digestive problems.

Pros and cons of the breed

The German Boxer is a dog that has its advantages and disadvantages. The advantages of these cheerful, sociable animals include the fact that they get along well with other pets. Representatives of this breed cope well with security functions and are suitable for keeping in city apartments. These short-haired dogs do not require special care and are easy to train. They are very clean, fearless and resilient. In addition, these dogs are energetic, playful, friendly and endlessly devoted to their owner.

The main disadvantages include the fact that the German boxer has a tendency to dominate. And in the absence of proper upbringing, he can become aggressive. In addition, these dogs are characterized by increased excitability. If they are not given the opportunity to splash out their energy, they may begin to damage the furniture and destroy the apartment. Boxers retain their puppyish spontaneity for a long time and sometimes seem annoying.

Buying a puppy

The Boxer is a fairly common breed. These dogs are very popular in many European countries, including Germany, France, Austria and Great Britain. The National Breed Club operates successfully in Russia. Those who decide to purchase just such a puppy should contact a specialized German boxer nursery. It is there that breeders professionally breed these dogs and select the right pairs to produce healthy offspring.

When choosing a puppy, you need to pay attention not only to its compliance with the standard, but also to its behavior. He must be active and not be afraid of people. A healthy puppy has smooth, shiny fur, a damp, cool nose and clean, odorless ears. You also need to pay attention to his stomach. It should not be swollen or painful when touched.

German boxer: owner reviews

Many people who have a dog of this breed claim that these animals can become not only excellent companions, but also excellent protectors. At the same time, these dogs require serious training, in the absence of which they begin to destroy the apartment.

In addition, Boxers need a lot of attention, especially during puppyhood. Also, experienced owners of dogs of this breed recommend carefully monitoring the dog’s diet and purchasing special overalls for winter walks.

They protect homes and look after children, shepherd herds and serve as guides, participate in the search for criminals, work as miners and rescuers, they are the standard of loyalty and devotion. They are dogs, reliable and selfless companions of humans.

The Boxer dog breed is related to all currently existing “bulldog-type” dogs. They descended from Molossian Great Danes and Mastiffs - strong and beautiful animals. Their genes were successfully mixed with each other, the blood of a bulldog and a terrier was added, and so a new breed of dogs appeared. She received the unusual name “boxer” due to her special fighting technique. When attacking an opponent, the dog hits with its front paws, like a man with his fists. Why not a boxer?

They come from Tibet

The Boxer dog breed is known and popular throughout Europe, but it received its formation and improvement in Germany. Being a descendant of the fighting dogs of the Tibetan highlands, these dogs would have little resemblance to the animals that we are used to seeing today. They acquired their appearance, by which everyone can easily identify a boxer, only over the last century.

Their history goes back to antiquity. Even the Sumerians and ancient Assyrians decorated the walls of their temples with frescoes depicting powerful and strong animals. In those days, the ancestors of boxers were called “bullenbeisers,” which translated means “bullman.” In 1860, a female of such a “bull dog” was brought to Munich, and this is how the modern German boxer dog breed began to emerge.

Dog character

They perfectly combine the strength, power, grace, unbridled energy and playfulness of a puppy. Her dog will keep it until old age. Dogs are hardy, balanced and self-confident. They have a strong nervous system, they are calm, easily trainable, obedient and loyal to their owner. They become attached to their own people and perceive strangers with distrust; they do not like to be alone for a long time. Dogs are playful and friendly with children, affectionate, honest and open. But with all this, the Boxer dog breed is endowed with courage and bravery. The dog is fearless in attack and will be an excellent protector for the family and home.

The Boxer gets along well with other animals, treats small ones with patronage, and accepts cats normally. The dog is neat, it can be kept both in an ordinary apartment and in a country house with free walking. She will be a pleasant companion and a selfless protector. You can leave her to play with the child and take her to serious business. The breed can be used as a service or personal guard.

External data

There is a standard that defines the criteria for what a purebred Boxer dog should look like. The description of the breed was officially published in 1990 and is still valid.

According to the standard, the dog must be above average height (males from 56 to 61 cm, females from 53 to 58.5 cm), weigh 28-30 kg. The skeleton is strong, stocky, square in shape, dense in build. The muscles are highly developed, they are dry and well projected, the movements are light, fast and noble.

Close attention is paid to the head; it must fit harmoniously into the overall build. The correct shape of the muzzle is important; it should not be smaller than the skull and not be overly wrinkled; the appearance should not be harsh. The lower jaw should protrude forward and the teeth should not be visible when the mouth is closed. A crack is clearly visible on the upper lip, separating the lips. The nose is black, turned up slightly and has a clear vertical line in the middle.

The eyes are located straight, dark in color. They should not be small, bulging or deep-set. Dry and tense eyelids have a dark edging. The look should not be threatening; on the contrary, it should be smart, open and energetic.

The color can be brindle or red, with all sorts of shades. White spots may be present. A black muzzle is required - a mask that stands out against the general background.

The paws are stable, elastic, straight, the hind legs are slightly longer than the front ones. The elbows are slightly pressed to the dog's body. The paw pads are dense and hard, tightly padded. The tail is set moderately high to the body. The standards do not require docking. You can see what the Boxer dog breed looks like, there is a photo in this article.

Physical exercise

If you decide to have such a dog in your apartment, be prepared for constant and energetic walks and games. Thanks to his natural simplicity and dashing spirit, the dog will be constantly on the move. He is practically inexhaustible with any strength load, ready to walk and run for kilometers, while remaining full of strength. That's the kind of boxer he is. The dog breed (reviews from experienced breeders confirm this) is almost tireless, and you should devote as much time and effort to walks as you can handle yourself. This is an undeniable plus: how many of us regularly play sports today? A faithful friend will help you always be in great shape.

Of course, it is better for a dog to live in a house with free range, possibly kept on a chain. But some conditions must be observed. The love of this breed for fighting, as they say, is in the blood. Despite its calm disposition, the dog will not miss a single fight and can easily be the instigator. Therefore, a boxer is unlikely to be able to live happily with other animals of the same sex. Try to limit access to the territory for other dogs, and if you have several of them, be especially careful. The Boxer dog breed is a fighting dog, and was created for protection, because its representative can easily cause serious injuries to another animal. But your pet will be incredibly happy to be next to the opposite sex. If the dog lives “on the ground,” the temperature and humidity of the enclosure should be controlled. The Boxer must live warm and dry, otherwise he may become seriously ill.

Wool

The Boxer's coat is short, smooth, lies tightly to the skin, and does not tangle or mat. You should clean it daily with a soft bristle brush and then polish it with a piece of suede. Do not use hard brushes; the layer of hair covering the dog’s body is very thin, and the skin is sensitive and vulnerable. Before exhibitions, the coat should be carefully inspected and long hairs, if present, should be plucked or clipped to improve appearance. Grooming is simple, but during shedding you should pay more attention to it. Dogs love brushing and get a lot of pleasure from it. You should bathe your dog infrequently, perhaps only a few times a year, and then only when necessary.

Care

Pay attention to the claws; they should be trimmed periodically. They are not black, so you can easily cope with the task yourself. The procedure should be carried out once a week or two. A dog's claws do not grind down on their own, and their excessive length can cause inconvenience. The Boxer dog breed does not require complex care. You can see a photo of how to properly trim a boxer's claws below.

Don't forget to keep an eye on the ears; they should be cleaned once a week, and perhaps more often in the summer as wax builds up. Keep your eyes clean. In boxers, they are not sufficiently protected by eyelids, and therefore dust can get into them. If your eyes begin to water, wipe them with a strong decoction of tea.

Health

There are hereditary diseases in Boxer dogs, so you should carefully choose a puppy and contact only well-established kennels. Dogs are easily susceptible to hypothermia, colds, and heart disease. Older animals can develop cancer, and cancer is also inherited.

There are frequent cases of cryptorchidism, which means that the male dog’s testicle has not descended into the scrotum or has not descended completely. Such dogs are subject to culling from breeding, although not only males, but also females carry the gene.

Typical for this breed is the overgrowth of the bones of the spine - spondylosis deformans. Boxers are also prone to hip dysplasia. Both of these diseases practically do not show themselves and can only be detected during an X-ray examination.

Among eye diseases, changes in the shape of the eyelids are common. They can turn both outward and inward. Surgery may be effective in correcting such a defect.

Little brothers

When choosing a dog, you should consider many factors, and first of all your capabilities. Among the many varieties of four-legged friends, there is also a breed of dog that is similar in appearance to a boxer. She's like a smaller copy of him. This is a Boston Terrier.

The choice of a friend should be taken very seriously. Consider the habits, character and the fact that the animal will live side by side with you for many years. Dogs are wonderful, everyone has one at least once in their life, but they must have such a faithful and devoted friend.

The Boxer is a loyal and active domestic dog.

Origin of the breed

The first impression when you see this breed is that it is an impressive, serious dog. The muscular, powerful body and square head are alarming. But behind this appearance lies a loyal, playful and kind dog who loves children and always wants to play.

Boxer's predecessor Bullenbeiser. Now this breed no longer exists. It was a hunting dog, very popular among hunters since the 17th century. It had a large mouth and an upturned nose for holding prey. But bullenbeisers bred exclusively for working characteristics.

As a result of selective selection, a balanced, non-aggressive, manageable breed of dog appeared - the German boxer. The homeland of the boxer is Germany, and after the First World War this breed spread widely throughout Europe.

According to the American Kennel Club, the Boxer is the seventh most popular breed in the United States (2010).

Boxer Character and Application

Boxer = play. This is the most playful dog of all hunters, and playfulness continues into old age. These dogs are jokingly called Peter Penns. They love to play with toys. A playful mood is an indicator of a healthy dog.

Dogs of this breed are excellent at training, as they are very devoted to their owner and completely obey him, but in puppyhood you have to be patient, because the puppy constantly wants to play.

Despite their watchdog qualities, Boxers make excellent family pet dogs. They become very attached to their human family. Distrustful of strangers, but without aggression.

Boxers love long walks. For the owner, the main task is to provide the dog with constant developmental activities, including activities that develop mental abilities. The secondary task is to socialize him as early as possible. Boxers need to be given a lot of time and attention; they are a full-fledged member of the family.

With sufficiently active walks, a Boxer can be kept in a small apartment without any problems. Check out our selection of dogs for apartment living: .

The Boxer is a fearless and friendly dog. Moreover, this is not just a characteristic, it is a mandatory feature of the breed. Aggressive or cowardly behavior is a reason for disqualifying a dog. So does the short tail.

These dogs are often used by the military and police as guard dogs or bodyguard dogs. They can also be used as guide dogs - they are smart and balanced.

Boxer appearance and health

The Boxer's coat is short, stiff and shiny. The color can be red (fawn) or brindle. There are white boxers, but this is a genetic disorder and it is not recommended to breed white boxers.

Ears and tail are sometimes cropped, but this is not at all necessary. Cropped ears are standing.

This dog is not suitable for keeping in a yard, on a chain or in a kennel, as they get cold easily. Their small nose does not cool hot air well in hot weather and just as poorly warms cold air in winter. And short wool practically does not warm.

If you are not afraid of drool and exercise a lot, the Boxer is perfect for you and will be a happy family dog.

The German Boxer is a breed of dog with a warlike appearance and a cheerful, good-natured character. The breed is almost universal and can be used as a bodyguard and even a guide for a person with disabilities.

The German Boxer breed originates from the Tibetan Great Dane dogs of the Brabant Bullenbeitzer. According to descriptions preserved from the 6th-7th centuries AD, these were courageous and strong dogs, used in those days in fights with bulls. Due to the special structure of the skull bones, these dogs had powerful jaws and were able to hold a hunted animal for a long time.

With the introduction of a ban on fighting between animals in Europe, Bullenbeitzers turned into butcher dogs, circus troupes and even robbers who used the breed as guards. The working qualities of these dogs attracted the attention of many amateurs, and dog handlers Hepner, Rotberg and Koenig began creating a new service breed.

In a short period of time, selection work made it possible to obtain a strong, courageous, harmoniously built dog with a specific skull structure, a stable psyche and an iron grip of the jaws.

The first description of the German Boxer breed was presented in 1895. At the same time, a boxing club was created in Munich. At the exhibition in 1896, 50 dogs of this breed were presented. The first German boxers combined the features of Bullenbeissers and. Over time, the Bullenbeiser blood began to predominate and the characteristics of this breed were manifested by 70% in new individuals.

During the First World War, the German boxer dog performed the duties of an assistant to police officers, guards, delivered the wounded and reports during hostilities, and even carried the wounded from the battlefield. The breed became more popular at the end of World War II.

The modern standard for the German boxer was approved by the FCI in 2002.

Appearance and breed standard, photographs

The German Boxer is a dog of medium height, stocky, with developed lean muscles, prominently protruding under short hair. All the dog's movements are noble, proud and demonstrating his strength. The height of the dog is from 53 to 64 centimeters, the weight of the German boxer is from 25 to 32 kilograms.

Photo. Boxer dog

Three German boxers in the photo

• Head square shape. The transition from the muzzle to the forehead is sharp. The muzzle is voluminous and wide.
• Jaws strong. The lower one protrudes and gives the muzzle a threatening appearance.
• Nose black, upturned and raised, slightly flattened.
• Ears set high, after docking they acquire sharp outlines.
• Eyes dark brown. Eyelids with black pigmentation.
• Neck shaped like an elegant arch, rounded, muscular, dry. The transition to the withers is clearly expressed.
• Body square in shape, lean, with muscles prominently protruding under the skin. The back is short and level. The lower back is strong.
• Croup oblique, rounded, wide.
• Breast deep, up to the elbows. The ribs are curved.
• Tail set high. Docked short.
• Limbs parallel to each other. The shoulder blades are long and oblique. Elbows slightly pressed to the chest. Hind limbs with clearly defined muscles. Knees are forward. The paws are rounded and collected.

Disadvantages of the breed:

• Fangs protruding from the surface of the muzzle.
• Short, thick neck.
• Narrow or hunchbacked back.
• Weak muscles of the limbs.
• Falling paws.
• Wandering movements, stilted gait.

Coat type and colors

The coat of German Boxers is short, close to the body, and shiny. The structure of the guard hair is hard.

The main colors provided for by the breed:

• Brindle.
• Red (fawn) with any shade from light to mahogany.

Both colors require a black mask and black ears. White markings up to 30% of the color are allowed, located on the paws, belly, and chest. White color on the back and sides, as well as on the muzzle, is not allowed.

REFERENCE. The white German boxer is considered very rare. Due to its rarity, this color is considered to bring good luck to its owners. However, the world breed standard does not allow this color.

Characteristics of the breed

The German Boxer is a lively, cheerful and curious dog. Dogs retain this character throughout their entire lives. The first representatives of the breed retained the aggression inherited from their ancestors, but breeders overcame this trait of fighting dogs.

However, the spirit of a fighter has been preserved in the breed and it manifests itself in games and competitions. Specially trained German boxers can be very pugnacious. But generally, representatives of the breed show aggression only in moments of danger.

At the same time, the German Boxer’s anger is selective: the dog is merciless towards enemies and is boundlessly devoted to its owner and family. The boxer, thanks to his instincts, protects the weak, so he will never hurt a child. If the baby violates the boundaries of what is permitted and bothers the dog too much, it will simply leave and try to hide.

The German Boxer is a sociable dog and does not tolerate loneliness, so it prefers to be close to its owner all the time. Strangers make him distrustful. The dog will not rush at a stranger, but in case of danger it will be able to fight back.

Boxers often show aggression towards other dogs, especially those of the same sex. Taking into account this feature, breeders recommend keeping dogs of different sexes in the house, otherwise the boxer will conflict and try to dominate.

The attitude towards other animals in the house depends on the proper upbringing of the dog. If a cat grows up in the same territory as a German boxer, he will be friends with her. The boxer will most likely begin to chase unfamiliar cats and other small animals.

Important. With improper upbringing or in the presence of a breeding marriage, a German boxer may show increased aggression. Such a dog can become dangerous to others, but also to family members.

Basic rules of training

Experts recommend purchasing a German boxer as a first pet for inexperienced owners, since representatives of this breed are easy to manage and amenable to training. The main rule of boxer training is to communicate with the dog in a calm tone.

It is forbidden to scream and get nervous if the dog doesn’t do something, because the German Boxer is sensitive to the owner’s mood and will get nervous along with him. There will be no benefit from such communication in a raised voice.

As a service dog, a boxer must undergo a full course of special training and master all the necessary commands. It is recommended to start developing working qualities from 5 months. It is advisable to seek help from a professional dog trainer who will help the owner teach the boxer service skills.

Before The puppy must learn the general rules of behavior in the house and on the street. Lessons should be short and fun, more like a game. First thing . A tray is placed in the house for this purpose, and the dog is placed in it every time he sits down. If the puppy successfully goes into the litter box, he is sure to be praised.

It takes place in natural conditions. As soon as the dog sits down, you need to pronounce the appropriate command so that an association arises. After a few repetitions, the puppy begins to understand what is required of him.

The way to a German boxer's heart is through his stomach. Using treats (crackers, bones from a pet store, biscuits) as rewards can achieve the desired behavior. Boxers are well motivated for such rewards, since they are real gourmands. They are even willing to work for a portion of their regular food.

If the learning process is carried out before the next feeding, the commands are learned much faster. Alternatively, you can set aside a small portion of the daily portion and use it as a reward after class.

The whole training technique comes down to stimulating actions through praise and treats. Boxers love to be praised and always try to please their owner. If the puppy does something wrong or begins to misbehave, the owner should show his displeasure by ignoring the pet. When a dog sees that they don’t want to communicate with it, it understands that such behavior is unacceptable.

Important. You cannot punish or hit a dog for misbehavior. The dog will simply be afraid of the owner, but will not understand what he is doing wrong.

The German Boxer is a dog with a weak immune system, so its physical well-being directly depends on proper care and maintenance in the necessary conditions. A dog can live in a city apartment or a country house. But in winter, keeping a Boxer in a kennel is not advisable, as he is prone to hypothermia.

For walks, you need to purchase a long leash and a special harness. Keeping a German Boxer in a collar is not recommended.

Hair and eye care

Caring for the German Boxer is not difficult, since its short coat does not need to be combed. It is enough to go over your pet’s skin once a week with a stiff brush or a special mitten to remove dead hairs.

The German Boxer also does not need frequent bathing, as it washes away the natural fatty coating from the skin. If your pet gets dirty, just clean off the dirt with a sponge soaked in a special shampoo, and then wipe with a rag soaked in clean water. If you wish, you can bathe the dog a couple of times a year.

The structure of the boxer's eyelids contributes to the accumulation of dust in the eyes, from which. The dog's eyes are wiped daily. If yellow discharge accumulates in the corners of the eyes, they are removed with a damp cotton pad dipped in chamomile infusion or strong brewed tea.

Ear cleaning and nail trimming

The dog's ears are also wiped with a damp disc. It is contraindicated to use sticks or other objects to penetrate the ear to avoid damaging your hearing. If there is an unpleasant odor or fluid leaking from the ears, and the dog rubs its head against objects or shakes it, you should consult a veterinarian.

A Boxer needs to have its nails trimmed regularly if they do not wear down on their own during walks. Too long claws contribute to deformation of the paws when walking. It is necessary to trim the very tips of the claw without affecting the blood vessels. For the first time, it is advisable to entrust this procedure to a professional groomer and observe his actions.

Dog nutrition, choosing the right diet

Getting the required amount of nutrients during feeding is the key to good health for your dog.

The natural menu of a German boxer should consist of the following products:

• Lean meats.
• Sea fish.
• Porridge from buckwheat, rice, rolled oats.
• Vegetables (except potatoes).
• Dairy products.
• Milk (for puppies).

A dog up to a year is fed from 5-6 to 3 times a day. An adult boxer should eat 2 times a day.

If you choose the option of feeding dry food, you should not save money and treat your boxer with cheap brands. This is a serious risk for the dog’s health, since such food contains a lot of preservatives and dyes, which can become a source of allergies and digestive problems. and allergies. To prevent your dog from getting hypothermic, it is recommended to reduce the time spent walking in damp and frosty weather. To prevent it, you need to follow the recommendations on nutrition and selection of cosmetics.

Boxers are also susceptible to the following diseases:

• Deafness.
• Cardiomyopathy.
• Spondylosis deformans.
• Brachiocephalic syndrome.
• Hypothyroidism.
• Turn of the century.

Choosing a puppy, which nurseries to buy from and price

Before buying a puppy, you need to decide on the purpose of purchasing it and find out everything about the breed of your future pet. If a dog is purchased as a companion and family member, you can not focus on its exterior, but rely, first of all, on its spiritual disposition.

Photo. Little German boxer puppies

Three German boxer puppies in the photo

The choice based on the principle “I liked him” is not suitable if the dog is bought for participation in exhibitions and for breeding offspring. In this case, it is necessary to select a puppy by considering and evaluating its parents.

The baby's father and mother must be champions of dog shows, be balanced, and meet breed standards in appearance. It is also necessary to check whether the parents have hereditary diseases, since the health of their offspring depends on this.

A German Boxer puppy should be well-fed, with smooth, shiny hair that evenly covers the entire body. The baby should have clean eyes and ears. The puppy's behavior should be active, playful, even cocky.

It is necessary to buy a puppy from trusted breeders or specialized nurseries. The baby must have a passport and vaccination card.

You can buy a purebred German boxer puppy in the nurseries of the following cities:

• Moscow – at prices starting from $500 (ergobox.ru, www.aivengo.ru, www.yalins.ruww, www.lendgreip.ru, www.alibi-boks.jimdo.com).
• St. Petersburg - from $400 (lit-bomond.jimdo.com, www.lar-arete.ru, www.vzeniteudachi.com, www.liberumavis.com, www.dogizros.ru, www.nikink.ru) .