BOXER Breed Standards
The modern Boxer is essentially a refined and modified version of a now extinct German breed called the Bullenbeiser, or Bull Biter. The Bullenbeiser was used to hunt large game such as boar, deer and bear cubs. Its method of attack was to chase down prey and latch onto it, stopping or slowing the animal so the dog’s master could dispatch it. For this, the Bullenbeiser’s broad, powerful jobs and recessed nose were valuable traits, as they allowed the dog to maintain its grip while still being able to breathe. SKILLS:
These same qualities were also desirable in the blood sport of bull baiting, in which dogs were loosed upon enraged bulls, and beginning in the 1820s German Bullenbeisers were crossed with mastiffs, terriers and English Bulldogs in an attempt to create a more specialized bull baiter. The result was a dog of considerable size and toughness, with a face that bears a keen resemblance to that of a Bulldog. The dog did not see much action in its intended profession, however, as bull baiting became increasingly outlawed throughout Europe. But the resilient Boxer soon found other uses, and it was not long before the Boxer was working throughout Germany as a guardian, policeman, soldier and all around work dog.
Toward the end of the 19th century the Boxer began to spread throughout Europe and eventually the United States. The Boxer Club was founded in Munich, Germany in 1895, and the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1904. The Boxer did not immediately catch on in the United States, but beginning shortly after World War II the dog began to steadily rise in popularity. Today, the Boxer is perennially among the top ten registered breeds in the United States.
There is still some debate as to the origin of the Boxer name. Some contend the name comes from the dog’s tendency to approach its prey by rearing on its hind legs and “boxing” with its front paws; the words box and boxer are the same in English and German. Others believe the name comes from the German word Boxl, which is what the dogs who worked in slaughterhouses were called.
Family Pet
SIZE: The shoulder-height is 53 – 63cm (21 –25in).
COAT: The Boxer's body is compact and powerful and the shiny, close-fitting coat comes in fawn, brindle, white and various shades of red, with white markings. White Boxers cannot be registered with some Kennel Clubs. The tail is usually docked. Ear cropping is optional. (Docking and cropping is illegal in some countries.) Its head should be in proportion to its body, lean and unwrinkled. Its lower jaw extends beyond its upper one, curving upward. Neither teeth nor tongue are to show when the mouth is closed. The nose is large and black with very open nostrils. Eyes dark. The neck should be round, strong, and muscular, without dewlap. The body should be square. The tail is carried high. Its front legs should be straight and parallel.
CARE REQUIRED: The coat can be kept in condition by grooming occasionally with a rubber brush. Pay special attention to this when the dog is shedding.
CHARACTER: This happy, friendly, spontaneous, and intelligent dog is eager to learn and curious. Learning quickly, it is also vigilant, boisterous, uncomplicated, straightforward, lively and constantly on the move, bonding very closely with the family.
TRAINING: Teach the Boxer not to be so boisterous and especially not to jump up at people. Since it learns quickly and has substantial intelligence, the Boxer is ideal for various sporting activities from defense trials to skills trials.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: Boxers are known for the way they get on well with children. A well brought-up and properly socialized Boxer will also get on with his own kind and other household pets.The Boxer’s nature is to protect you, your family, and your home. Known visitors will be welcomed boisterously.
EXERCISE: Try to give a Boxer plenty of exercise. When it has grown up, you can carefully let it run beside a bicycle. They love playing and romping with their own kind but a Boxer will happily leave its basket to play ball with you.
