Boxer dogs are very playful and companions, but can they be good guard dogs? In this post we are going to talk about the characteristics of boxer dogs that make them good companion dogs with the protective abilities of a guard dog. Care for dogs of this breed will also be addressed.
Boxer as guard dog
Boxer dogs are excellent guard dogs. In addition, they are great companion dogs, the Boxer dog is known mainly for its shape and defined muscles, and for its playful aspect.
It is a dog that can be aggressive when needed. In addition to being very reserved with strangers. They are very intelligent dogs and easy to train. Your physical appearance can also frighten any stranger.
About the boxer breed
The Boxer originated in Germany from the cross of the Bullenbeisser with Mastiff, Terrier and, later, with Bulldogs. The crossing of these breeds resulted in the Boxer dog, known today for its agility, resistance, and great strength.
Physical characteristics
Boxer dogs have a compact, robust body, with a muscular square build and strong bones. The head of these dogs is proportional to the body and has a broad, powerful looking muzzle. The lips are suitable for the size of the muzzle. While the eyes have dark colors.
The Boxer has a smooth, short, and close-fitting coat. Their colors range from golden to deep red and brindle with black stripes.
Behavior and temperament
The boxer is an energetic, powerful, and noble dog. In addition to being a very loyal dog and having a super protective instinct. They are very brave dogs and can be aggressive when it is necessary to act, especially when guarding the house.
It is an excellent companion dog due to its docile, cheerful, and affectionate characteristics, but it is also an excellent guard dog because it is a suspicious dog with strangers, yet fearless when the situation is serious. Easy to train to its docility, security, courage.
General care
Below we will talk about some care with the Boxer breed such as:
- Health care;
- Bath care;
- Skin care;
- Nail care;
- Teeth care;
- Behavioral care.
Health care
Boxers need to keep their vaccinations and deworming up to date, so it is advisable to visit the vet at least once a year. They tend to be very healthy, active, and playful dogs.
The main diseases of this breed are hip dysplasia due to the physical composition of this dog. In addition, some animals may have heart and respiratory problems.
Hip dysplasia is a genetic alteration, very common in Boxer. Dysplasia is a malformation in the hip joint that causes discomfort, pain, can lead the dog to limp and has problems with locomotion that worsen with age.
Because it is a genetic trait, dogs with a high degree of the disease should not be reproduced. There are imaging tests that classify the degree of dysplasia and can be performed even in puppies.
As for heart problems, dilated cardiomyopathy is the most common disease in Boxers. Dilated cardiomyopathy is an inherited disease that is characterized by changes in the heart muscle that cause blood pumping failure.
As for respiratory diseases, these are related to a flattened face. Due to the conformation of the respiratory system, the boxer can present a series of anomalies in the anatomy that cause breathing difficulties. That’s why periodic consultations with a veterinarian are indicated.
Bath care
As for general care, periodic baths should be carried out with specific products for dogs. After bathing the dog must be very dry because the humidity can lead to dermatitis. When showering, you should be very careful not to let water get into your ears, predisposing the dog to an ear infection.
Skin care
Brushing the flur can be done once a week due to the short coat of these breeds. No grooming is necessary. And these dogs tend to shed a little fur around the house.
Nail care
Nails can be clipped whenever animals go to bathe. This prevents the animal from having very large nails that can hurt the tutors and the animal itself.
Teeth care
Brushing your teeth should be done every 48 hours using a dog-specific toothpaste. Brushing your teeth prevents the formation of tartar that can lead to gingivitis and other health complications.
Behavioral care
This breed is full of energy, thus requiring a lot of physical activities, and games with the tutor. Frequent walks should be done with these dogs, always wearing a muzzle, avoiding aggression to other people.
Conclusion
Boxer dogs are very sweet and loyal to their tutors, and because of their need to defend them, dogs end up being a little aggressive with strangers in some situations. They are excellent guard dogs due to their ability to protect and are excellent companion dogs for their docile, faithful, playful, and friendly temperament with their tutors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Boxer as guard dog
Is the Boxer an aggressive dog?
Yes, it can be considered an aggressive dog with strangers. But, in fact, this behavior is just a way to protect the one he loves from possible threats. It is a very affectionate breed with its family.
How big is the Boxer dog?
The size of the dogs is measured by the height of the withers, for Boxer males the minimum is 57 cm, not exceeding 63 cm. And females with at least 53 cm, should not exceed 39 cm.
Is the Boxer dog a good family pet?
Yes, they can be excellent family dogs used as guard dogs. Their courage and energy make them very playful. And its aggressiveness to defend its tutors makes it a loyal dog and an excellent guard dog.
References
CBKC – Brazilian Canine Cynophilic Confederation, 2015. Official Breed Standard: Boxer. Available in: https://cbkc.org/application/views/docs/padroes/padrao-raca_31.pdf. Accessed 11th Feb 2022.
Pictures from pixabay.com
