Boxer dogs are a popular dog breed and have some distinctive behaviors of their own. However, Boxers do not exhibit many of the dog problems that are common among other dog breeds. Common distinctive behaviors found in boxer dogs are:
- Loyalty and self-confidence: The Boxer is friendly and very loyal to its owners, content to just be with them and lay at their feet. Boxer dog owners appreciate the devotion this breed gives them. Most vowed never to have another breed of dog. The Boxer is a strong and noble breed that exudes self-confidence.
- Affectionate -Natural Protector of Children- The Boxer dog loves most children and will naturally become a playmate and protector of children. Boxers show devoted affection for their owners and strangers when properly socialized and introduced.
- The Woo Woo- The “woo woo” is a vocalization that boxer dogs often make during play, which is an invitation to play with them or if you have something they want. It is quite comical in nature. The Boxer is often referred to as the clown of the dog breed.
- The Wavy Rear: The “wavy rear” is an excessive movement of the hindquarters exhibited by Boxer dogs. It is an excitable gesture, happy to see you, as well as a compensation in body language communication to show friendly motives to others, including dogs. Boxers are a docked breed, with their tail docked, this behavior serves as an over-exaggeration of friendly tail wagging to let others know they mean no harm.
- Oooo- This is definitely something every Boxer owner has said when the Boxer expels flatus (gas) both quietly and loudly in their proximity. The Boxer is quite intelligent and will often get away from the bad smell before the owners.
- Boxing – The boxer likes to play using his front legs in a boxing motion, much like a boxer in the ring.
- Mouth Biting – The Boxer can be seen quite frequently mouthing with another dog or human, making a distinctive whining vocalization and side-to-side head tilt movement with its mouth wide open. It is not a sign of aggression. Young Boxer puppies at 3 to 4 weeks of age will begin this behavior with their littermates. It is a natural play gesture of boxer dogs.
- Hugging – The Boxer likes to hug (put paws on shoulders) and should be taught at an early age not to do so. Especially in homes with children and older adults.
These are NOT common behaviors seen in boxer dogs:
- Excessive Barking – Barking is a form of communication in dogs and Boxers do not overcompensate for this. Boxers generally only bark to alert the arrival of new visitors, guarding their territory or during play, they are not excessive barkers like toy breeds or hunter/hound breeds. They do not bark for unknown reasons.
- Aggression – Boxers may look mean and tough, but they are not aggressive dogs. They have a very retractable guard behavior, will alert visitors and can defend their territory if real threats are presented. If aggression does appear in a Boxer, it is usually manifested by poor parenting (genetics), medical conditions, and mistreatment by humans or other dogs. Aggression can be seen in any breed of dog that is not spayed or neutered, is not properly socialized, or is fearful and unsure of the situation. Stressful and painful situations and the protection of valuable resources are also common ways dogs show aggression.
- Fear Phobias: Some Boxers may exhibit fear phobias of people, thunderstorms, and loud noises, although these are not common in the breed. Phobias can manifest from lack of socialization and trauma at a young age, even for unknown reasons.
- Jumping on people: This is not a common behavior for boxers unless improper training has occurred or excitable behaviors are encouraged, hugging is not the same, but neither is it desirable for most people.
- Training Problems: The Boxer is an easy dog to train with the right motivation. Consistent and humane methods are favored.
- Separation Anxiety: The Boxer thrives in a social setting with his family. Some Boxers may show separation anxiety if they are left alone and become bored. Behaviors such as chewing, digging, destroying property, littering the house, whining, and excessive barking for no apparent reason to their owners are common signs of separation anxiety. Boxers will show no signs of these behaviors if they are properly exercised and trained and their social needs are met.
- Obsessive licking: Most Boxers aren’t lickers per se, but you’ll occasionally find one who is, trying to show their submissive side to their owners and friends. Often this behavior occurs due to boxers being uncertain in a given situation or being treated too harshly by owners. They may lick themselves in an effort to obtain food or water.
- Submissive urination: It is unusual behavior for a Boxer to exhibit submissive urination, i.e. urinating when approached or aroused. Those showing signs of submissive urination problems should be checked out by a veterinarian to rule out medical conditions. This dog behavior problem is often a sign of an underlying medical problem, excessive arousal, and/or trauma.
The common distinctive behaviors of the boxer dog make it a true dog for all seasons and loved around the world by thousands, possibly millions of humans. If you have a Boxer who exhibits any of those problem dog behaviors that are not common among this breed, contact a trainer, behavior specialist, dog behavior consultant, and/or veterinarian for help.
