Boxers are late to mature (that means they act like puppies and do not tend to “settle down” until the age of 3 or 4 years). Boxers need daily work and or exercise. Long brisk walks are ideal and playing fetch with a ball or toy is wonderful.

Please Note: Boxers really do require a good amount of playtime. If they do not receive proper exercise they can become destructive due to being bored and having pent-up energy. Just remember: “A tired boxer, is a good boxer.”

Boxers also love to play with one another. Older boxers (silver boxers) do not require as much activity but still have a good bit of energy and love to fetch and go on walks. Many boxers end up in shelters and need to be rescued b/c their families didn’t realize they would require so much time and energy due to the boxer’s exuberance.

Whoever said boxers DON’T shed was lying! They do, it just isn’t in clumps like a longer-haired dog. Boxers are also prone to seasonal flank alopecia. Quality foods and regular baths and brushing will help decrease the amount of hair shed by your Boxer. Boxers do not require “grooming” like a long-haired dog, just don’t forget to have regular nail trims and regular ear cleanings, especially for those floppy-eared boxers.

Aggression is NOT a trait of a well-bred and socialized Boxer AT ALL. Boxers who are socialized on a regular basis, from puppyhood, generally relate very well with other dogs. Boxers seem to enjoy the company of other Boxers, as they have the same style of play (“boxing”).

Many Boxer breeders and rescuers will agree that placement of Boxers of the opposite sex (male with female, spayed and neutered of course!) is the best arrangement.

Most Boxers love to chew. Coffee tables, remote controls, shoes, chair legs, door frames, etc… are all fair game. It is of the utmost importance that you provide your Boxer with stimulating toys or activities to do when you cannot be around. It is your duty to provide a chewing outlet for your Boxer.  Many of our volunteers use a KONG filled with treats or peanut butter, a food cube, a treat ball, or a Nylabone-type product.  We also recommend crating your Boxer when you are not home. Most of our chewing occurrences have been linked to boxers being left uncrated! Crating your boxer is for his or her safety! This ensures they are kept in a safe place while you are gone.

Boxers are predisposed to cancers–namely mast cell tumors and lymphomas. Skin conditions such as Demodex (mange), allergies, hot spots, skin tags, etc… are also common. Cardiomyopathy is a concern and Boxers are susceptible to “bloat” which is deadly if not treated immediately. Boxer owners should be prepared to have a little money put aside for unplanned vet visits, besides their annual vaccinations!

Boxers have great affection, especially for children and seniors. Most can recognize the need to be more patient and gentle with people however, some are better at understanding when to be gentle than others! Please think about what type of household you have and what age boxer may be best for you and your family before adopting! This boxer is going to be your FOREVER friend!