American Kennel Club Boxer Puppies

Boxers in the United States are lighter and more refined than those on the Continent. The first Boxer was registered by the American Kennel Club in 1904 but the first champion didn't finish until 1915. Boxers have had a slow and steady climb in popularity till they are now firmly fixed in the top twenty breeds.

In judging the American Kennel Club Boxer first consideration is given to general appearance and overall balance. Special attention is then devoted to the head, after which the individual body components are examined for their correct construction, and the gait evaluated for efficiency.

American Kennel Club - Very detailed information relating to Boxer dogs in AKC shows. www.akc.org

The American Boxer Standard - AKC information regarding the Boxer dog standard. www.jlhweb.net


Size
Adult male American Kennel Club Boxer dogs grow to around 23 to 25 inches; females 21 and a half to 23 and a half inches at the withers. Proper balance and quality in the individual should be of primary importance since there is no size disqualification in many dog shows and competitions.

Proportion
The body in profile is square in that a horizontal line from the front of the forechest to the rear projection of the upper thigh should equal the length of a vertical line dropped from the top of the withers to the ground.

Substance
Sturdy, with balanced musculature. Males larger boned than females.

Coat
The American Kennel Club Boxer dog's coat is short, shiny, lying smooth and tight to the body.

Body
The Boxer's chest is of fair width, and the forechest well-defined and visible from the side. The brisket is deep, reaching down to the elbows; the depth of the body at the lowest point of the brisket equals half the height of the dog at the withers. The ribs, extending far to the rear, are well-arched but not barrel-shaped.

The lower stomach line is slightly tucked up, blending into a graceful curve to the rear. The croup is slightly sloped, flat and broad. The pelvis is long, and in females especially broad. The tail is set high, docked, and carried upward.

Character and temperament
These are of paramount importance in the American Kennel Club Boxer. Instinctively a hearing guard dog, their bearing is alert, dignified, and self-assured. In the show ring the dog's behavior should exhibit constrained animation. With family and friends, the American Kennel Club Boxer's temperament is fundamentally playful, yet patient and stoical with children. Deliberate and wary with strangers, they will exhibit curiosity, but, most importantly, fearless courage if threatened.

More American Kennel Club Boxer dog statistics and information can be found at AKC Breeds.