Do Boxers have health issues

Boxer

The Boxer dog was imported to the United States from Germany in the 1930s, according to the American Boxer Club, where they were used for hunting. This history means todays Boxers are excellent runners and playful jumpers.

Boxers are deep-chested dogs that are usually well-muscled under their smooth coat. They are considered a medium-sized dog breedweighing in around 6580 pounds with an average height of 2125 inches.

Caring for a Boxer Dog

Their high-energy and spirited nature typically make Boxers good pets for active households. They require 30 minutes to two hours of exercise every day and, according to the breed club, can excel in dog sports such as rally, agility, and lure coursing. Providing enough exercise and mental stimulation is a big part of Boxer care.

But while Boxer dogs need lots of activity, they require very little grooming thanks to their short coat. Common Boxer colors include brindle, fawn, and white, and they can have white and black markings.

In the past, many Boxers had their ears cropped, but this trend has grown less popular in recent years and you will often see Boxers with floppy ears. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVA) opposes the procedure, as its done for cosmetic reasons and doesnt have any proven health benefits.

Boxer Dog Health Issues

Boxers are prone to several health issues, so its important to talk with your veterinarian to have a strong preventative health routine in place. Pet parents may also want to invest in pet insurance when bringing home a Boxer puppy.

The typical Boxer lifespan is 1012 years. They are a brachycephalic (flat-faced) breed, meaning thatalong with the health issues listed belowthey are prone to overheating and breathing issues.

Cancers

Cancer is one of the most common health conditions seen in Boxers. The types of cancer include:

Treatments vary depending on the type of cancer a Boxer develops. Surgery is often used to remove the affected tissue. Referral for consultation with a boarded veterinary oncologist may be recommended. Chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and/or radiation therapy may be recommended.

Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)

Dilated cardiomyopathy(DCM) is degeneration of the heart that causes the muscle to become very thin and pump weakly. Symptoms can include weakness, collapse, cough, trouble breathing, and bluish gums. The symptoms of the disease may occur suddenly or progress gradually as the disease worsens over time. DCM can eventually lead to congestive heart failure.

Often, the first sign of an issue will be a new heart murmur heard by your veterinarian during a routine physical examination. If a heart murmur is noted, your vet will likely refer you to a veterinary cardiologist for an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) to determine the cause. If your pet is diagnosed with DCM, they will likely be prescribed daily cardiac medications for life as well as routine rechecks.

A correlation betweenDCM and grain-free dietshas been found but is not fully understood. Talk to your vet about the risks and benefits before feeding a grain-free diet to your Boxer.

Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC or Boxer Arrhythmia)

ARVC is a genetic disease that affects the Boxer dog breed and, rarely, other breeds. This condition occurs when the normal heart muscle is replaced by fatty and fibrous tissue, causing abnormal electrical activity and therefore irregular heart rhythm.

ARVC varies in severity and many Boxers with ARVC live several years before developing symptoms. ARVC is treated using medications that control the abnormal heart rhythm (antiarrhythmics).

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV)

Gastric dilatation-volvulus (a severe form ofbloat in dogs) is a condition that occurs suddenly and requires immediate life-saving intervention. It occurs when the stomach fills up with food or gas, causing expansion and pressure.

The stomach can then rotate, which causes inadequate blood supply to the spleen and stomach. If not treated quickly, shock, tissue damage, and even death can occur.

Increased risk is seen in older dogs that have a deep chest (like the Boxer), dogs that are fed from elevated bowls, and dogs that are fed only once per day.

Immediate veterinary intervention is needed to stabilize and treat GDV. Initially, fluid therapy, oxygen therapy, and decompression of the stomach may be performed. Surgery is required to return the stomach to the right location and secure it in place (gastropexy). A gastropexy can also be performed preemptively to secure the stomach in the right position and prevent GDV from occurring.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidismis a condition that causes the thyroid gland to be underactive. The thyroid gland controls the metabolism. In hypothyroidism, the body either attacks its own glands or the gland is replaced with fat.

Hypothyroidism is diagnosed using blood work. Its treatable with a thyroid hormone replacement medication calledlevothyroxine, which will be a lifelong medication.

Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease

The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) is an important ligament that stabilizes the knee. In humans, this is known as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The CCL can break down over time due to degeneration, genetics, obesity, and skeletal/joint conformation. When this ligament breaks down, its at risk of tearing, which destabilizes the joint.

Surgery is typically required to stabilize the knee. Dogs that have had a CCL tear in one knee have a 4060% chance of tearing the other CCL. Maintaining a lean body condition helps prevent CCL disease, as excess weight adds to the breakdown of the ligament.

What To Feed Boxer Dogs

Feeding a commercial kibble or wet food approved by theAssociation of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is a good way to make sure a Boxer receives a complete and balanced diet.

Boxers need quality protein for healthy muscles, including the heart. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids (DHA/EPA) support healthy skin, coat, kidneys, and heart.

How To Feed a Boxer

Adult Boxer dogs thrive on being fed two meals per day, about every 12 hours. Using slow feeder bowls can help slow your Boxer down when they eat, which can help prevent bloat and GDV. Do not feed a Boxer from raised food bowls; this can increase the risk of bloat.

Boxer puppies need to eat more frequent meals, about three or four per day.

How Much Should You Feed a Boxer?

Just like humans, the recommended caloric intake varies between individuals due to differences in size, metabolism, health, and activity level. The best way todetermine how much to feed your Boxeris to talk with your veterinarian and consult the feeding guide labels on your chosen dog food.

Maintaining a healthy weightis very important for protecting a Boxers joints.

Nutritional Tips for Boxers

Boxers can also benefit from the addition of omega-3 fatty acids (DHA/EPA) into their diets. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in skin andjoint supplements,fish oil, and even in some specially formulated dog foods. These fatty acids will act as natural anti-inflammatories that help to support the skin, coat, kidneys, joints, and heart.

Never give your dog supplements without talking to your vet first.

Behavior and Training Tips for Boxer Dogs

Boxer Dog Personality and Temperament

Boxers are happy, playful dogs with a lot of energy. They are known to jump and paw when they play, so teaching them to stay down is beneficial. Because of their tendency to jump, Boxers may not be the best breed for families with young children unless theyre well trained to keep all four paws on the ground.

Boxer Dog Behavior

Because of their history as hunting dogs, Boxers have a prey drive and can be tempted to chase after birds and small mammals. They should be kept on a leash or inside a fenced-in space whenever theyre outside, and introductions to smaller pets like cats must be done properly and slowly.

Many Boxers enjoy digging in the yard and may even tunnel under a fence. Supervision is important when your pup is outside.

Early leash training can help stop your dog from pulling on the leash while walking, which is common in Boxers.

Boxer Dog Training

Boxers are very intelligent and trainable, but they often require patience due to their high energy level. They will learn if given clear and consistent guidance through positive reinforcement training.

Socializing Boxer puppies at an early age is incredibly important, as it will help your pup grow into a confident and polite dog thats not fearful around new people, animals, and situations.

Fun Activities for Boxers

Boxer Grooming Guide

The Boxer is a relatively low-maintenance dog breed when it comes to grooming.

Skin Care

Boxers do not require any special skin care treatment. You can include omega-3 fatty acids in their diet to help support their skin and coat with your veterinarians guidance.

Contact your vet if you notice any changes in your dogs skin.

Coat Care

Boxers have a short coat that sheds moderately. To keep their coat as healthy as possible, consider brushing them weekly. Boxers can be bathed monthly, if needed, or less frequently if they are keeping themselves clean.

Eye Care

The Boxer breed does not have any special eye care requirements. Schedule a vet appointment if you notice any changes in your dogs eyes such as discharge, redness, or cloudiness.

Ear Care

To keep your Boxers ears healthy, its recommended to clean their ears twice a month to prevent infections. Use a veterinary-approved ear cleaner.

Considerations for Pet Parents

Healthy Boxers should still have a physical examination with a veterinarian at least once a year. Boxers are predisposed to several heart conditions, including dilated cardiomyopathy and Boxer arrythmia, among others. The breed must be monitored for signs of exercise intolerance, lethargy, or coughing, as these could be signs of a developing heart condition.

Boxers should also be regularly monitored for skin tumors, as these may be cancerous. Additionally, signs of internal cancer may include lethargy, decreased appetite, weakness, or weight loss.

Boxers are a high-energy dog breed known for bouncing around. Therefore, they are not the most ideal dog breed for households with young children, frail individuals, or senior adults who can be knocked down easily.

Boxer Dog Breed FAQs

Is a Boxer a good family dog?

When well-socialized at an early age, the Boxer can be a good family dog. Their high energy and jumping may make them less than ideal pets for frail individuals and young children.

Are Boxers smart dogs?

Boxers are very smart dogs that can be trained when given clear, consistent cues. Because theyre so energetic, training can take patience.

How long do Boxers live?

A Boxers lifespan is 1012 years on average.

Do Boxers shed?

Boxers do shed a moderate amount, and weekly brushing can help remove loose hairs before they end up on your furniture.

Featured Image: iStock.com/madcorona

References

Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)

Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.Arrhythmias (Abnormal Rhythms) in Dogs.

American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS).Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus.

American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS).Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease.

WRITTEN BY

Virginia LaMon, DVM

Veterinarian

Dr. Virginia LaMon graduated from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2013. She completed her clinical year at Auburn...

7 Boxer Common Health Issues [+Signs and Prevention]

Known for their affection, people love Boxers for their beauty and loyalty, but theyre also prone to developing certain health problems.

Fortunately, most of the health issues Boxers tend to face are treatable if you catch them early. So its helpful to know about the conditions that are common to the breed.

The most common Boxer health issues are heart conditions, cancers, hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), hypothyroidism, and bloat.

In this article, well look at major health issues your Boxer may face during his lifetime. After that, Ill break down which conditions manifest in the different life stages and how your furbabys health compares with other breeds. Well wrap up with a list of signs to watch for and recommendations for prevention and health care.

Common health problems

Due to years of selective breeding that gives the Boxer its flat face and other endearing characteristics, the breed is prone to developing certain health problems. Below well review the 7 most common issues your furbaby may face.

Heart conditions

Boxers are prone to heart conditions, some of which are present from birth. Issues that commonly affect this breed include atrial septal defect, subaortic stenosis, and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

Dog breeds that are prone to developing heart conditions include Boxers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Doberman Pinschers, Schnauzers, and Great Danes.

Because atrial septal defects and subaortic stenosis are congenital disorders, these conditions manifest at birth. DCM can surface in Boxers as young as 6 months old, but the condition usually appears in adulthood.

With an atrial septal defect, theres an opening in the wall of the right and left atria that permits blood to flow between the chambers. A dog with subaortic stenosis has a narrow aortic opening that creates extra pressure in the heart. DCM is a degenerative condition involving a weakening of the ventricular muscle.

Signs of heart conditions in your Boxer include:

• Irregular heartbeat
• Coughing
• Fluid accumulation in the abdomen
• Fainting
• Heart murmurs
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite

Without treatment, each condition puts added strain on the heart muscle that can result in eventual heart failure and a decrease in both the quality and length of your Boxers life.

Prevention of these heart conditions centers on choosing puppies from a reputable breeder who will only breed dogs with no history of heart issues. With DCM, you should also talk to your veterinarian about supplementing your Boxers diet with carnitine.

While surgical correction for congenital defects is an option, each of these conditions can usually be managed medically. Treatment options include diuretics, cardiac drugs, dietary management, and lifestyle changes.

Cancers

Boxers are prone to developing certain types of cancers, including lymphoma, mast cell tumors, and brain tumors.

Cancers of various forms affect several breeds, including Boxers, Great Danes, Rottweilers, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Labrador Retrievers.

Most cancers take time to develop and are more likely to appear in the middle ages.

When certain body tissues or cells experience abnormal, uncontrolled growth, it causes cancer. Lymphomas are tumors of the lymph system. Mast cell tumors affect the mammary glands, and brain tumors grow in the head.

Common signs of cancer in dogs include:

• Rapid weight loss
• Lethargy
• Change in appetite
• Visible lumps on or under the skin
• Seizures
• Confusion
• Swaying or difficulty walking

Without treatment, these cancers can spread to other parts of the body and cause premature death. While some cancers are fatal, treatment can still prolong your dogs life and reduce his quality of life.

When it comes to cancer in Boxers, the first line of defense is selecting puppies from a trustworthy breeder and family lines with no history of the disease. Other preventative measures include spaying or neutering your Boxer to reduce the chances of mammary cancer and conducting regular checks for lumps when you groom your dog.

Cancer treatment depends on the type and severity of the condition. Whenever possible, tumors are surgically removed. Further therapy may include radiation treatments or chemotherapy. The chance of recovery is significantly better if you catch the cancer in its early stages.

Hip dysplasia

The larger, athletic frame of Boxers and years of specialized breeding leave them predisposed to developing hip dysplasia.

Hip dysplasia is a congenital condition thats common in large and giant breeds, including Boxers, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and Great Danes.

As a slowly developing, degenerative disease, the symptoms of hip dysplasia usually manifest in middle-aged to senior Boxers.

When Boxers have hip dysplasia, theyre born with an anatomical deformity in the hip socket that allows for extra movement in the joint. Over time, the motion damages the cartilage and causes degenerative changes and arthritis.

Symptoms of hip dysplasia include:

• Difficulty walking
• Difficulty or reluctance when climbing stairs, getting in the car, or getting on furniture
• Difficulty rising from a prone position
• Sitting with a leg out to the side
• Chronic pain

Without treatment, hip dysplasia will cause progressive degeneration and increasing pain. Your Boxer will lose mobility and have a reduced quality of life.

Prevention of hip dysplasia in Boxers starts with only buying your puppies from reputable breeders. Once you have your furbaby, feed him a nutritious diet and supplements that help to promote joint health.

In many cases, hip dysplasia can be managed medically with a combination of pain medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, joint supplements, weight management, restricted activity, and joint fluid modifiers. Surgical correction may be needed to treat severe conditions.

Degenerative myelopathy

Similar to multiple sclerosis in humans, degenerative myelopathy is a neurological disease that commonly affects Boxers. It is genetically inherited.

Breeds commonly affected by degenerative myelopathy include Boxers, German Shepherds, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Pembroke Welsh Corgis, and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers.

Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive disease, so it usually develops in middle-aged or senior Boxers.

When dogs develop degenerative myelopathy, the white matter breaks down in their spinal cord, leading to progressive hind leg weakness and, eventually, lameness. Without white matter, the Nerve fibers need the white matter to signal muscle contraction.

Signs of degenerative myelopathy include:

• Stiffness getting up
• Hind limb weakness
• Dragging rear feet
• Loss of balance
• Poor coordination
• Swaying gait
• Crossing legs when walking

There is no treatment or cure for degenerative myelopathy. However, supportive care can help delay the progression of the symptoms.

The only way to prevent degenerative myelopathy is by choosing your Boxer from a family line with no history of the condition.

Treatment of degenerative myelopathy in your Boxer may include:

• Supplementation with the amino acid N-acetyl-cysteine and vitamins B, C, and E
• Physical therapy to maintain muscle mass
• Supportive care, including hygiene and care of pressure wounds

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)

Over time, Boxers were bred to have a characteristic flat face that leaves them vulnerable to developing Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS).

Flat-faced breeds like Boxers, Pugs, French Bulldogs, and English Bulldogs are predisposed to BOAS.

The anatomy associated with BOAS is present at birth, but signs of the condition usually become more pronounced in adulthood.

The flat-faced characteristic sets Boxers up for changes in the airway and throat that include a narrow windpipe, an elongated soft palate, and narrowed nostrils. These features make breathing more difficult.

Signs of BOAS include:

• Exercise intolerance
• Coughing
• Gagging
• Noisy breathing/snoring
• Difficulty breathing
• Pale gums
• Collapse

Boxers with BOAS who dont receive the treatment can experience respiratory difficulty, worsening symptoms, and collapse.

Preventative measures for Boxers with BOAS include helping your furbaby maintain a healthy weight, keeping him inside when its hot and humid, and limiting your dogs exercise/exertion.

Treatment options for BOAS include:

• Surgically widening the nostrils.
• Trimming the soft palate
• Removing everted laryngeal saccules

Hypothyroidism

Boxers commonly suffer from hypothyroidism, which is caused by an underactive thyroid gland.

Hypothyroidism is common among medium and large-breed dogs like Boxers, Golden Retrievers, Beagles, and Doberman Pinschers.

Because hypothyroidism takes time to develop, the signs usually manifest in the adult years.

Usually, in Boxers, the body attacks its thyroid gland, causing a reduced production of thyroid hormones. The hormones help regulate metabolism and growth, so their absence causes a variety of problems in the body.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism include:

• Lethargy
• Reduced heart rate
• Weight gain
• Vulnerability to skin and ear infections
• Thin, brittle hair and bald patches
• Mental dullness
• Sudden changes in behavior

Without treatment, hypothyroidism can lead to weight gain and infections that affect other body systems. Over time, your Boxers quality of life and health will deteriorate.

Hypothyroidism in Boxers is probably genetically linked, so the best way to prevent the condition is by purchasing a puppy from a trustworthy breeder.

Treatment for hypothyroidism in your Boxer includes hormone supplementation, weight management, and regular monitoring.

Bloat

With their deep chest and large frame, Boxers are prone to bloat.

Bloat is common in larger dogs with deep, narrow chests, including Boxers, Golden Retrievers, Saint Bernards, Great Danes, and Weimaraners.

In Boxers, the risk of bloat is most prevalent between about 3 and 7 years of age.

When bloat occurs, gas fills the stomach, and it expands, causing the wall to stretch beyond normal. As the stomach expands and pressure builds, it can shut off blood to other organs and cause a life-threatening emergency. Sometimes, the stomach also rotates on its axis, causing a torsion.

Signs of bloat include:

• Anxiety, pacing, acting uncomfortable
• Panting or drooling
• Turning and looking at the abdomen
• Dry heaves/retching
• Distended abdomen
• Praying/downward dog posture where the front end is lowered, and the hind end is elevated

Bloat is an emergency that requires immediate treatment. If you ignore the symptoms, your dog will likely go into shock and collapse. Death can occur in as little as a few hours.

Usually, bloat occurs when food or air overfills the stomach, but it also has genetic links. Preventative measures include:

• Purchasing a puppy from a family line with no history of bloat
• Feeding your Boxer 2-3 smaller meals rather than once a day
• Avoid exercising your dog for about an hour after meals
• Using a slow-feed bowl

Treatment for bloat varies depending on the severity of the condition. Simple bloat may be treated with supportive care, hospitalization, and leash-walking to encourage gas and food to move out of the stomach. Treatment for severe bloat or torsions can include:

• Pain medications
• Stomach decompression
• Supportive care, including IV fluids
• Surgery

Boxer Health issues across the lifecycle

Health issues in boxers can surface at any age, depending on the condition. Congenital heart defects often appear in puppies, while other conditions like hypothyroidism, degenerative myelopathy, and BOAS appear more often in adults. Other degenerative conditions surface in seniors.

Boxer Puppy Health Issues

Boxers that are born with heart defects like atrial septal defects and subaortic stenosis will usually show signs of disease as puppies. They may show illness around six months of age.

Occasionally, dogs may also show early signs of BOAS, but it usually develops in adults.

Adult Boxer Health Issues

Certain diseases that are common to Boxers usually manifest in the adult years. DCM takes time to develop, so the symptoms usually occur as adults. Many times, cancer also manifests when Boxers are middle-aged.

Dogs with BOAS are more likely to develop symptoms in the adult years after their bodies reach maturity. Other conditions that affect adult Boxers include hypothyroidism and bloat.

Senior Boxer Health Issues

Degenerative conditions are most likely to surface in your Boxer when he reaches his senior years. Hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy usually occur when dogs are older.

Boxer Health Issues and Average Lifespan

As large-breed dogs, Boxers generally live 10-12 years.

Certain health issues in Boxers can end their lives prematurely. If dogs have heart defects or suffer from DCM, the conditions will put a strain on the heart. Likewise, advanced stages of cancer may be terminal.

Other diseases like hypothyroidism and hip dysplasia may impact your dogs quality of life.

Boxer Health Issues VS Other Dog Breeds

Boxers can suffer from several potentially serious health issues, including cancers and heart diseases. They also share the tendency to develop hip dysplasia with other large-breed dogs.

Because the most concerning health issues are genetically linked, you should work with reputable breeders. Avoid family lines that have a history of certain conditions.

Health Signs Boxer Parents Should Beware Of

Even when you practice the best preventative measures, your Boxer may develop certain health issues. It helps to know which signs to watch out for.

• Irregular heartbeat
• Coughing
• Fluid accumulation in the abdomen
• Lethargy
• Rapid weight loss
• Change in appetite
• Visible lumps on or under the skin
• Difficulty walking
• Difficulty or reluctance when climbing stairs, getting in the car, or getting on furniture
• Difficulty rising from a prone position
• Hind limb weakness
• Dragging rear feet
• Loss of balance
• Exercise intolerance
• Gagging
• Noisy breathing/snoring
• Reduced heart rate
• Weight gain
• Vulnerability to skin and ear infections
• Thin, brittle hair and bald patches
• Anxiety, pacing, acting uncomfortable
• Panting or drooling
• Turning and looking at the abdomen
• Dry heaves/retching
• Distended abdomen

Boxer Health Care Tips and Prevention

If you have a Boxer, there are several things you can do to help keep him healthy and happy. Below is a list of tips for health care and preventative measures.

• Work with a reputable breeder who can tell you about the parents health histories.
• Schedule routine health checks, including vaccinations and health screenings

• Keep your Boxer at a healthy weight. Males usually weigh 65-80 pounds, depending on their frame size. Females are generally 15 pounds lighter.
• Feed your Boxer a nutritionally balanced diet.
• Give your dog supplements to support the joints, like glucosamine and chondroitin.
• Use an orthopedic bed to support your Boxer if he has hip dysplasia or other joint issues.
• Groom your Boxer about once a week with a grooming mitt. Check and clean your furbabys ears at the same time.

The Final Woof

Boxers are fun-loving and loyal companions, but they can suffer from some serious health issues, including heart conditions, various cancers, hip dysplasia, and others. Your furbaby may not develop any problems, but it helps to be prepared.

Some of the health issues that Boxers develop are present from birth, while others develop over time. Consequently, your pup could show signs of an issue at any stage of life. Certain diseases may shorten your furbabys life. It helps to know which signs to watch for in your pooch. You can help maximize his life by practicing good health care and prevention.