Boxers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States and are loved for their playful, active and intelligent temperament. They make a great family pet and are extremely loyal to their owners. Here are five interesting facts about Boxers:
Origins
Boxers were originally bred in Germany in the late 19th century. Their ancestors include the now extinct dog breed named Bullenbeisser and English Bulldogs. The Bullenbessier was used as a hunting dog, specifically for hunting bear, wild boar, and deer. The first Boxer Club was established in 1896, a year after the first Boxer was exhibited during a dog show in Munich, Germany. The American Kennel Club (AKC) registered the first Boxer in 1904. In recent years the Boxer ranks 7th among the 155 breeds and varieties registered by the AKC.
Military Background
It was during World War I Boxers were put to work carrying important messages and supplies. They were also trained as attack and guard dogs alongside soldiers. Many of these soldiers brought back home these loyal canine companions to their families. This increased their popularity among the general public.
Health Concerns
There is an inherited heart condition called Boxer cardiomyopathy or more specifically Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC). This heart muscle disease is characterized by an irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia. This arrhythmia is caused by a disruption in the normal electrical conduction of the heart. These arrthymias can cause weakness, collapse, or even sudden death. This condition can often be diagnosed through an electrocardiogram in conjunction with an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart). Current treatment modalities are aimed at preventing arrhythmias through medical therapy.
The White Variety
There are about 15-20 percent of Boxers that are born with white fur. These are not albinos because a true albino is born without pigment and these Boxers simply have a fur variation. Approximately 12-14 percent of these white Boxers are born deaf, which makes training much more challenging. The American Kennel Club does not recognize a pure white boxer, but boxers that contain white markings (less than 1/3 of their body) can be registered.
World Record Holder
A boxer named Brandy holds the Guinness Book of World Record’s honor for longest tongue belonging to a dog. Brandy, who lived in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, had a tongue the length of 43 cm (17 inches).