German Boxer
Facts about the German Boxer
The boxer dog is a beloved pet in American homes, but their origins are not from the US at all; rather, they were originally known as the German boxer.
Before the year 1903, there were no boxer dogs in the United States. A gentleman by the name of George Alt brought a female Bullenbeiser from France to Germany. This powerful breed of dog was known for its expertise in hunting, and was frequently used by individuals who were hunting deer, wild boar and bear. Alt had different plans for his female, however, breeding her with the English bulldog concentrating on such traits as personality and strength. A breeder’s club had already begun in Germany in 1896 as breeders there worked on developing what they felt to be dominant and desirable features in the dog. In 1903, the boxer arrived in the United States when the Stuttgarter Kennels, impressed by the dog’s appearance and characteristics, imported them to promote the breed. In only one year, the German boxer became the AKS recognized breed as the boxer. More standardized features were developed through breeding until the boxer evolved into the dog we know today.
Early on, breeders made the decision to avoid breeding white boxers, as these dogs were inclined toward deafness. Originally, the white color was common within the boxers; a trait carried over from the bulldog characteristics. Instead, the colors of brindle or fawn were encouraged, with small amounts of white markings found to be acceptable. The positive promotion of the breed is attributed largely to the German Boxer Club, and the breed is now an extremely popular one around the world.
Features of the dog that was formerly known as the German Boxer are a short snout with a broad muzzle. These, combined with the dark mask they wear, give the dog a formidable appearance that lends credence to its use as a guard dog. The short haired coat is shiny and smooth, easy to groom, with normal shedding habits. Males tend to be slightly taller than females, with an average height for male being around 24 inches and females 22 inches. Stocky and sturdy, the adult can reach weights of 70 to 80 pounds.
In temperament, the German boxer is easy going, fun-loving, devoted and very intelligent. They are rambunctious, so be prepared to get plenty of exercise when bringing a boxer into the family. This breed is very compatible to households with children.
The German boxer breed is one with a long history, with the ancestry of the dog richly imbedded in the German culture. Adapted over time into the American boxer we now know, this dog is a much beloved breed across the country and the world.