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The handsome boxer dog is a breed with a history. It gets its name from the fact that in historical days, when it was bred to fight, this dog would stand on its hind legs and fight like a boxer in the ring. The boxer dog isn't relegated to fighting anymore and has, instead, taken on the role of a popular pet and companion. Adding a member of this dog breed to your family has its advantages and disadvantages. Here's what you should consider before owning a boxer: 


Advantages of owning a boxer

Boxers have exuberant personalities.

If you ask any boxer owner what they love most about this breed and they'll probably mention their exuberant personality. The boxer dog is lively and full of fun. When they greet their returning owners it's usually with a happy dance that's guaranteed to bring a smile to the face of any dog owner. Boxers are great for lifting the spirits when you've had a hard day at work and can give you a reason to laugh.

Boxers are handsome to look at.

Despite their rather unconventional appearing face, most people find the boxer to be a handsome dog with their sleek, muscular bodies and finely chiseled heads. Combine their sleek beauty with a winning personality and you can see how the boxer dog is one of the more popular dogs in the canine kingdom. 


A boxer dog is easy to groom.

Boxer dogs are a breeze to groom with their sleek, short coats that lie flat against their skin. A quick daily brushing and an infrequent bath are all that's needed to enhance the natural beauty of a boxer's coat. One caveat, boxer dogs shed more than you might imagine and their fur tends to stick to clothing and rugs. Be prepared with a good vacuum cleaner. 


Boxers are excellent guard dogs.

Boxers are quite loyal and courageous dogs devoted to protection of home and family. Who wouldn't be a bit intimidated when confronted with the strong, imposing face and body of a boxer? Because of their bravery, they're excellent canine students in the field of police work. Although ready to fight for family if called upon, the boxer greets familiar guests with much enthusiasm and affection.

Disadvantages of owning a boxer



They need lots of stimulation and exercise.

Because of their exuberant personalities and energetic natures, a boxer is not a dog content to nestle by the fireplace. They need daily exercise and stimulation. Be prepared to take them on regular walks or you could have a boisterous, even destructive, dog on your hands. Boxers love to jump which is a trait that should be tempered early. 
 

They have questionable social manners. 


Many boxer owners mention their dog's tendency to snore loudly at night and emit loud snorts during the day. Combine this with a tendency to slobber and you have a dog that's not known for creating a favorable social impression. They're also known for their frequent gassiness and passing of flatus. Most boxer owners adapt to these traits quickly and consider it part of the dog's unique personality. 


Boxers can be aggressive towards other animals. 


Although boxers are famous for getting along with people and children, they can be aggressive towards animals including other dogs in the household. For this reason, if you introduce a boxer into a home with other pets, be prepared for some intensive obedience training. A boxer needs a strong alpha leader to curb these aggressive tendencies. 


Boxers can have numerous health problems.

Boxers are genetically susceptible to a variety of serious health conditions including several types of heart disease, disc disease of the back, hip dysplasia, digestive problems, underactive thyroid, and deafness, to name a few. Their life spans also tend to be rather short when compared with other dog breeds. 


Owning a boxer dog can be a joy if you have the time to devote to this energetic dog. Is this handsome dog right for you and your family?