Which best describes the Boxer dog breed?
- Bold-looking, powerful dog favored by some countries for police work.
- Handsome-looking, suave European dating back to the 1500s.
- Cute, sweet playful pet and the ideal family watchdog.
- All of the above.
Anyone familiar with the Boxer dog breed will know the answer is "D". The Boxer dog breed traces its lineage to 16th
century Europe and are suspected to have descended from Tibet, where they were used as fighting dogs (hence, the name). The Boxer dog breed of today may have descended from that rough and tumble world, but German breeders refined them over the years into the strikingly handsome breed of today. The Boxer dog breed was first used by German police departments and today Boxers work in law enforcement and in other service capacities.
Primarily, however, the Boxer dog breed is right at home with its family. The American Kennel Club (AKC) says the Boxer dog breed is meant to be "alert, dignified and self-assured." At the same time, Boxers are meant to be playful and willing to spend time as a canine babysitter. While the Boxer dog breed is not known for dogs that are shrinking violets, the dogs shouldn't be too forward either. The Boxer dog breed temperament is balanced; they are kind, but wary of strangers until told otherwise.
It's a good thing the Boxer dog breed is known for its even-tempered ways. After all, these are not small dogs, and are very athletic. Members of the Boxer dog breed should stand between 21.5 and 25 inches at the withers, weigh in at between 65 and 80 lbs. and be solidly built on a frame of large bones. They come in just two colors: fawn and brindle, and the coat should be short and lay close to their bodies. The Boxer dog breed is one of the brachycephalic breeds. These are dogs that naturally have short muzzles with the lower jaw extending ahead of the upper jaw. Aside from giving the Boxer dog breed its distinctive look, it also means that your pet may have difficulty regulating its body temperature. As such, avoid extreme temperatures either hot or cold. And, yes, your member of the Boxer dog 
breed may snore so plan accordingly for where he/she sleeps.
A member of the Boxer dog breed makes a wonderful household companion, but keep in mind that a dog of this size is going to have to get out and stretch his/her legs. The Boxer dog breed does well in a home with a fenced back yard where they can play with family members. If you share an apartment with a member of the Boxer dog breed, invest in a good leash and some good walking shoes.
Finally, let's get this stuff about the name out of the way right from the start. The Boxer dog breed is said to have been used in the brutal sport of dog fighting. This particular breed is said to have raised up on its hind legs and used its front paws in the manner of someone who is boxing. Since dog fights have been outlawed, the Boxer dog breed of modern times is often used in police work because of his determined nature, but most often is a favorite family pet.
