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 lie at their feet. Boxer dog owners appreciate the devotion this breed brings 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 adores most children and will naturally become a playmate and protector of children. Boxers display devoted affection for their owners and strangers when properly socialized and presented.
- 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 canine breed.
- The Wavy Butt: The “wavy butt” is excessive movement of the hindquarters exhibited by boxer dogs. It’s an excitable gesture, happy to see you, as well as a trade-off in body language communication to show friendly motives to others, including dogs. Boxers are a docked breed, with docked tails, 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 silently and loudly in their proximity. The boxer is quite intelligent and will often get away from a bad smell before the owners do.
- Boxing: The boxer likes to play using his front legs in a boxing move, much like a boxer in the ring.
- Mouth Bites – The boxer dog can be seen quite often mouth-playing with another dog or human, making a distinctive whimpering vocalization and a side-to-side tilting movement of the head with its mouth wide open. It is not a sign of aggression. Young boxer puppies 3 to 4 weeks old will begin this behavior with their littermates. It is a natural play gesture for boxer dogs.
- Hugging – The Boxer likes to hug (putting 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 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 seem mean and tough, but they are not aggressive dogs. They have highly retractable vigilance behavior, will alert visitors, and can defend their territory if real threats present themselves. If aggression does occur in a Boxer, it is usually manifested by poor breeding (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 guarding valuable resources are also common ways that dogs display 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 an early 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 it is also not desirable for most people.
- Training Issues: 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 left alone and they get bored. Behaviors such as excessive chewing, digging, destroying property, soiling the house, whining, and barking for no apparent reason to their owners are common signs of separation anxiety. Boxers will not show signs of these behaviors if they are properly exercised and trained and if their social needs are met.
- Obsessive Licking: Most Boxers aren’t lickers per se, but on occasion you’ll find one that is, trying to show their submissive side to their owners and friends. Often this behavior occurs due to the uncertainty of the boxers in a given situation or too harsh treatment of the 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., urinate when approached or aroused. Those showing signs of submissive urination problems should be checked out by a vet to rule out medical conditions. This dog behavior problem is often a sign of an underlying medical problem, excessive excitement, and/or trauma.
The common distinctive behaviors of the boxer dog make him a true all-season dog and loved around the world by thousands, possibly millions of humans. If you have a Boxer that exhibits any of those problematic dog behaviors that are not common among this breed, contact a trainer, behavior specialist, canine behavior consultant, and/or veterinarian for help.