The Boxer is among the most popular dog breeds for first-time owners and families alike. Despite Boxers’ ancestors being originally bred for guard dog duties, these high-energy dogs are enduringly loyal and make for an excellent family pet. But what is the Boxer’s temperament like?
Read on to find out more about this loveable breed.
Boxers are known as the dogs that never grow up. Even as adults, this breed is a bundle of endless fun and still acts like a puppy, remaining high-spirited and playful throughout their whole life!
Here are the main traits you’ll find in the Boxer breed:
A Boxer’s energy levels always seem high. As a large, energetic dog, this breed requires two long walks daily with lots of playtime in between. This breed’s energy is difficult for some pet parents to control. And, since they love people, other dogs and running, many Boxers will benefit and enjoy dog sports, which is a constructive way to manage their energy.
With that round head, square jaw, and wrinkled expression, they have the look of permanent confusion. Unlike other breeds, they have a ‘dance’ known by Boxer owners as the kidney bean, twisting their body into a semi-circle and turning in circles which makes them look incredibly goofy.
To add to the hilarity, most Boxers make a signature “woo-woo” sound when excited or looking for attention. If their facial expressions, sounds and awkward movements weren’t goofy enough… Boxers drool a lot too.
Yes, Boxers are clowns and provide endless entertainment, but they are also amazingly loyal. A Boxer puppy will easily form tight-knit bonds with their humans, and some might become so close they may become ill-tempered and depressed if apart for too long.
Their size and strength make them excellent guard dogs. Some may take guarding duties very seriously, protecting their human family, especially children, from every perceived threat, whilst other members of the same breed display no guard instincts.
The Boxer breed is considered an excellent choice for first-time dog owners and families. As they are loyal and devoted to their family, the best thing you can do is socialise Boxer puppies with other people and other dog breeds from a young age. Early socialization will prevent your pooch from perceiving unnecessary threats.
Boxers are generally a great mix with other dogs, but this depends on how well you have socialised them. Early obedience training will go a long way as Boxers can act aggressively towards other dogs of the same sex, especially each other.
Boxers are naturally playful and inquisitive dogs, and while they might not mean any harm, their breed characteristics could easily be misread by other dogs.
Boxers are known for getting along with just about all other animals, even the cat.
If you adopt a puppy from a reputable breeder, you will have some indication of the bloodline’s temperament, but socialising your Boxer, regardless of the dog’s age, will lead to a friendly, well-mannered companion who can live with just about anyone.
Absolutely! Having a Boxer is a lot like having another child in the house. Boxers love children, but despite their high-energy personalities, they are known to be gentle with them and can make the perfect canine companion for your young family.
Behavioural problems generally result from bad training or boredom. Responsible breeders and owners will train them to act calmly indoors, but they need plenty of outdoor exercise too, as Boxers need to burn off that energy.
Start obedience training from a young age or consult a dog trainer for advice.
The Boxer dog breed is prone to separation anxiety. It’s important to acclimatise Boxer dogs to being left alone for short periods from a young age. However, leaving your Boxer alone too long will cause anxiety and bad behaviour.
Few Boxers bark excessively. If they do, it is likely due to a perceived threat or a result of being left alone for too long.
Boxers are large, muscular dogs with a lot of energy and need plenty of space to exercise. A Boxer without the opportunity to burn off energy could ultimately develop avoidable health concerns and could even see a reduced life expectancy.
Boxers are naturally happy-go-lucky, friendly dogs who thrive on human companionship. Their energetic and naturally inquisitive nature means that they really do need proper training from a young age. But a well-trained, well-socialised pooch can live with anyone, and just about any other animal too.
They do not fare well in extremely hot weather or cold weather and should live indoors because of this… but also because, at heart, they are family pets and thrive at the heart of family life.
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