• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 26 – 30 inches (65 – 75 cm) ; bitches: 24 – 28 inches (60 – 70 cm)
• Weight: 165 – 200 pounds
• Life Expectancy:  up to 10 years
• AKC Group: Working Group – AKC recognized in 2004
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); relatively inactive indoors; small yard will do.

Personality of the Neapolitan Mastiff Dog Breed

The Neapolitan Mastiff is duly noted for its loyalty and devotion to its family.  As a result of being bred for centuries as a family guard dog, it is extremely reserved and suspicious of strangers. Needless to say, it is one of the highest rating watchdogs that can equally protect its family due to its size and fighting ability. The Neapolitan Mastiff is affectionate towards children but may be dominant towards other dogs and house pets.

History of the Neapolitan Mastiff Dog Breed

This is one dog that is extremely heavy-bodied and has a strong, powerful grip. These types of dogs have been traced back to the Middle East and Asia where they functioned as war dogs. Their jobs were to guard homes, control livestock, and even fight men and large animals in battle, such as elephants and lions.

The modern day Neapolitan Mastiff is said to be connected to giant Macedonian war dogs that Alexander the great mixed with short-haired dogs of India. The time was approximately 330 BC. The resulting bloodline was called the Molossus, which is considered to be the progenitor to many large dog breeds of today.

The history then becomes a bit more interesting.  The Romans took over Greece and at the same time took all of their Molossus dogs. Then in 55 BC the Romans invaded and conquered Britain.  The British had large and imposing Mastiff dogs that the Romans admired. These dogs fought valiantly during war.

As you can probably guess these two dogs were bred together and created a super breed of giant war dogs that were called “Mastini” which is the Italian word for Mastiff. The breed continued to expand its members and were perfected over centuries of well functioning guard dogs. However, they were quite isolated and remained unknown to much of the rest of the world.

In 1946 they were introduced to the world at a Naples dog show.  A man named Piere Scanziani saw the dog and immediately recognized what type of breed it was.  He started a campaign to influence other dog fanciers to help bring out the breed from obscurity.  They went as far as drawing up a petition so that the Italian Kennel Club would recognize them under the name of “Mastino Napoletano”.

It was not until the 1970s when this dog breed was documented in the United States.  There were of course a few of these dogs that were already in the U.S. from Italian immigrants, but nothing was official until the 70′s.  It did not take long for the breed to become popular and gain interest from dog enthusiasts.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 2004.

The Neapolitan Mastiff Dog Breed Care and Grooming

Neapolitan Mastiff dogs will need a lot of space.  This is one dog that is literally huge in size and must have enough room to roam around without being squeezed in.  As far as exercise and physical requirements to, they do not need much.  A simple walk on the leash will do just fine. Consider also that the large size of the Neapolitan Mastiff will require higher expenses in terms of food and veterinarian visits. They also tend to drool a lot and can be quite messy with its food and water.

Health Problems of the Neapolitan Mastiff Dog Breed

The average lifespan of a healthy Neapolitan Mastiff is approximately 10 years. Larger dogs tend to have shorter life spans than smaller ones.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• demodicosis
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• cardiomyopathy

Minor health issues include:

• elbow dysplasia
• cherry eye

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 30 inches and up (76 cm) ; bitches: 67 inches and up (69 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 160 pounds (72 kg)  ; bitches: 150 pounds (68 kg); some male Mastiffs have been know to reach 200 pounds
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Working Group – AKC recognized in 1885
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); relatively inactive indoors; okay with a small yard

Personality of the Mastiff Dog Breed

The Mastiff is a particularly large breed of dog that is surprisingly easy going, good-natured, calm, and gentle. He is a well mannered animal that can fit well in most any household.

If you have a family with children in the house then owning a Mastiff would make an excellent choice as he is known to be utterly devoted and loyal to its owners, and great with little kids. This dog has high affection levels and gets along great with other pets.

Another positive aspect of the Mastiff is that he makes an excellent watchdog with the ability to protect the family with strength and quickness.

History of the Mastiff Dog Breed

The Mastiff originated in Britain. The breed is very old and seems to go as far back as 3000 B.C. Soldiers used them as war dogs as far back as 55 B.C.

One story says that Caesar took a pack of Mastiffs back to Rome and put the dogs on display in the gladiator arena. There they were forced to fight with human gladiators, lions, bears, and other dogs.

They later became a popular dog among the English peasants who used them as guard dogs.

Like many other dog breeds, they were almost extinct by the time World War II ended.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1885 as a member of the Working Group.

The Mastiff Dog Breed Care and Grooming

When the Mastiff becomes an adult, they need a mild amount of daily exercise. A good 10 to 15 minute brisk walk would do just fine.  Better yet are physical games in a fenced yard if you have the opportunity to own such a property.

This dog can live both indoors and outdoors. If you choose to keep your Mastiff outdoors then it should be noted that this breed is not fond of hot weather at all. He thrives on cooler temperatures so be sure to afford him the luxury of plenty of shade during the hot summer months if he is to be kept outside. However, the ideal living situation for a happy Mastiff is to be inside with his family as this dog is genetically geared towards protecting its pack.

Health Problems of the Mastiff

The average life expectancy of the Mastiff breed is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• gastric torsion
• prone to bloat

Minor health issues include:

• elbow dysplasia
• cystinuria
• osteosarcoma
• cardiomyopathy
• vaginal hyperplasia
• PPM (Persistent Pupillary Membrane)
• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)

Veterinarians recommend having the Mastiff dog breed tested specifically for eye problems, thyroid, elbow dysplasia, and hip dysplasia.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Quick Stats for the Great Dane Dog Breed

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 30 – 34 inches (76 – 86 cm) ; bitches: 28 – 32 inches (71 – 81 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 120 – 200 pounds (54 – 90 kg)  ; bitches: 100 – 130 pounds (45 – 59 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Working Group – AKC recognized in 1887
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); relatively inactive indoors; best with at least a large sized yard

Personality of the Great Dane Dog Breed

The personality of a Great Dane is a combination of dependability, friendliness, and courage. They are generally very friendly towards other household pets, humans, and even children. However, with small kids this dog is typically a bit intimidating. As with any dog, the Great Dane should be supervised when around your young ones.

History of the Great Dane Dog Breed

Always an amazing sight to see, the Great Dane is a very large dog that is said to be the result of the Greyhound and the ancient Molossus war dog. These ancestors helped the Great Dane to be a fearless hunter of big game. By the 14th century, these dogs were widely known for their agility and strength to hunt down wild boar. They proved to have the speed, courage, strength, and stamina to take down these tough, large animals.

Eventually the Great Dane became very popular with the landed gentry because of their hunting ability, combined with its graceful, yet intimidating appearance. These were noble dogs that made the perfect addition to any upper-class family.

The early name for this dog was actually referred to as “German Boarhounds” by the local British people. When and why the name Great Dane came to define these dogs is unknown and remains a mystery.

Interestingly enough, you would assume that it’s homeland would be with the Danish because of its name.  However, it is actually a German breed which, in 1880, the German authorities tried to officially claimed its name as the Deutsche Dogge. However, this name did not stick and by the time these dogs arrived in America during the late 1800s, the name “Great Dane”  has been the official name ever since.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1887 as a member of the Working Group.

The Great Dane Dog Care and Grooming

Caring for the Great Dane does not require much; daily moderate exercise in the form of a brisk walk two to three times per day is adequate. Many people assume that because of its large sturdy appearance, Great Danes can live outdoors.  But the truth is that it is not suited for outdoor living at all.  The best thing to do is to split the dog’s time up between staying outside during the day and inside at night.

Care for its coat is minimal, requiring only the occasional brushing. Also, many Great Danes tend to drool often.

Health Problems of the Great Dane Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Great Dane Dog Breed is under ten years. However, there are some Great Danes who have been known to live for between twelve to thirteen years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• osteosarcoma
• gastric portion
• cardiomyopathy

Minor health issues include:

• OCD
• hypothyroidism
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• HOD (Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy)
• Wobbler’s syndrome (known as CVI)

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

• Height (at the shoulders): 23 – 30 inches (58 – 75 cm)
• Weight: 120 – 145 pounds (54 – 65 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Working Group – AKC recognized in 2008
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); very inactive indoors; okay without a yard
• Other Names: French Mastiff, Bordeaux Bulldog

Personality of the Dogue de Bordeaux

The Dogue de Bordeax, or French Mastiff or Bordeaux Bulldog as they are also known, are patient and extremely loyal and devoted to their families. Although they have such a fearsome appearance, they are gentle with children and other family members.

However, they are fearless and will confront strangers. They are excellent watchdogs and guard dogs. They can be aggressive towards other dogs if they are not properly socialized from an early age.

This dogs are not recommended for inexperienced dog owners. They require a calm, confident, and firm owner.

History of the Dogue de Bordeaux

The exact origin of this dog breed is not quite known. It is believed that these dogs descended from crosses of the Bullmastiff, Bulldog, and the Tibetan Mastiff.

Towards the end of the Middle Ages, these dogs were used to drive cattle and as guard dogs.

Many dogs died during the French Revolution, but their numbers increased once the war was over. Raymond Triquet and the French Dogue de Bordeaux Club is credited with preserving the breed.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 2008 as a member of the Working Group.

The Dogue de Bordeaux Care and Grooming

These dogs require lots of exercise. Take them on a long daily walk or jog with them.

The Dogue de Bordeaux requires very little grooming. This breed is an average shedder.

Health Problems of the Dogue de Bordeaux

The average life expectancy of the Dogue de Bordeaux is about ten to twelve years.

Minor health issues include:

• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• epilepsy
• heart problems
• hyperkeratosis
• females must have cesareans

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 26 – 28 inches (66 – 71 cm) ; bitches: 24 – 26 inches (61 – 66 cm)
• Weight: 66 – 88 pounds (30 – 40 kg)
• Life Expectancy: up to 13 years
• AKC Group: Working Group – AKC recognized in 1908
• Shedding: average shedders
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); best with average sized yard (minimum)

Personality of Doberman Pinscher Dogs

The Doberman Pinscher, or Dobe as it is sometimes called, is a very intelligent dog. These dogs are loyal, sensitive, obedient, alert, and always ready to serve.They are one of the best watch dogs and guard dogs around. They are not only great protectors, but they are also easily trained.

They can be determined and bold and are not a breed that is recommended for everyone. They need firm, confident, and consistent leadership. All family members must stick to the rules with these dogs.

Dobes can make great family pets as long as they are socialized with children from early on. Some people think of the Doberman as a very aggressive dog, but that is just not true. In fact, Dobes have been known to make great therapy dogs because they can be so sweet and gentle.

History of Doberman Pinscher Dogs

This breed has its origins in Germany and is a recently developed dog breed, sometime during the 1860s. It is believed to have been developed by crossing breeds like old German Shepherds, German Pinschers, Rottweilers, Beaucerons, Manchester Terriers, and the Greyhound dog breed.

Louis Dobermann is credited as being the creator of the breed. He was a tax collector who need a protection dog to accompany in some of the rough areas he had to go. The breed is named after him. The Doberman Pinscher breed was first shown in 1876 and was a huge hit. By 1900, the breed had its own breed club.

The original Doberman looked somewhat different than the breed does today. The original dogs had rounder heads and a thicker bone structure. Over time they were bred to have a more narrow face, like they do today.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1908 as a member of the Working Group.

Doberman Pinscher Dogs Care and Grooming

The Doberman is a very energetic dog that requires sufficient daily exercise. Take them on a long daily walk or a jog. Play vigorous games outdoors when possible. They can become frustrated and even destructive if not provided with enough mental and physical stimulation.

These dogs require little grooming and are average shedders.

Health Problems of Doberman Pinscher Dogs

The average life expectancy of Doberman Pinscher dogs is about thirteen years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• gastric torsion
• demodicosis
• vWD (Von Willebrand’s Disease)
• osteosarcoma

Minor health issues include:

• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
• albinism
• narcolepsy
• hypothyroidism
• cervical spondylitis (wobbler syndrome)

Veterinarians recommend having Doberman Pinscher dogs tested specifically for hip, elbow, eye problems, cardiac issues and DNA for vWD (Von Willebrand’s Disease).

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): 18 – 22 inches (46 – 56 cm)
• Weight: 45 – 70 pounds (20 – 32 kg)
• Life Expectancy: about 15 years
• AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1903
• Shedding: seasonal heavy shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); relatively inactive indoors; okay with a small yard

Personality of the Chow Chow Dog Breed

The Chow Chow is believed to be one of the top rated watchdogs. They are very protective and cautious when it comes to defending and guarding their families. Because of this strong protective instinct they are very wary of strangers and other animals. They are quite good with children however.

They are not really playful dogs and can be a bit of a challenge to train.

Because of their short muzzles, these dogs will often snore.

History of the Chow Chow Dog Breed

The exact origin of the Chow Chow is not quite known. What is known is that this dog breed has been extremely popular in China for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. There are pictures depicted on ancient Chinese pottery of dogs closely resembling the Chow Chow.

The original purpose of the Chow Chow is thought to have been as a hunting dog. They were used to sniff out and find birds. Over time, the quality of the breed started to decline and their numbers steadily declined. However, a few of these dogs were kept inside monasteries, and with a few wealthy families.

The breed may be related to the Chinese Shar Pei, since both breeds can be traced back to China, and both have the distinctive black and blue mouth.

The name “Chow Chow” is believed to have originated from an old English slang term for all the odds and ends that were brought to England from the Far East during the 1800s.

During the late 1800s, the first Chow Chows made their way to the United States from England. Queen Victoria took a great interest in this breed, which helped their popularity to grow.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1903 as a member of the Non-Sporting Group.

The Chow Chow dog breed Care and Grooming

Chow Chows are not very tolerable of hot and humid weather. They would rather enjoy a nice cold day. Keep that in mind when you take them outdoors for exercise and other activities.

As far as exercise goes, a daily brisk walk should be sufficient.

Grooming their smooth, thick coat requires at least a weekly brushing with a good dog brush, perhaps a Chris Christensen pin brush.

These dogs are seasonal heavy shedders. Take extra care when they are shedding their thick undercoat. During shedding season, you may want to brush their coats every other day.

Health Problems of the Chow Chow dog breed

The average life expectancy of the Chow Chow dog breed is about fifteen years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• entropion
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• patellar luxation

Minor health issues include:

• stenotic nares
• elbow dysplasia
• distichiasis
• gastric torsion
• cataracts
• glaucoma

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): 18 – 20 inches (46 – 51 cm)
• Weight: 40 – 55 pounds (18 – 25 kg)
• Life Expectancy: up to 10 years
• AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1992
• Shedding: light shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); moderately active indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of the Chinese Shar Pei Breed

The Chinese Shar Pei can be described as courageous, independent, and a bit stubborn. They are also intelligent, playful, and active. These dogs are very devoted family pets, which makes them protective.

In general, they are great with other household pets, but can be overly aggressive towards strange dogs and animals.

They can be good with children if they are introduced to them when they are still young.

History of the Chinese Shar Pei Breed

The exact origin of the breed is unknown, but some experts believe that the Shar Pei has some connection to the Chow Chow dog breed. They believe that both dog breeds share common ancestors. Of course, both dogs are also from China.

Some evidence suggests that the history of these dogs go as far back as the 13th Century, with stout, wrinkly dogs being portrayed in writings during this time. The Shar Pei may even have its roots way back to around 200 B.C., in the southern provinces of China.

The history of the breed is hard to trace because most of the records about the breed were lost or destroyed when China became a communist country. Originally, the breed was used by peasant farmers for dog fighting, guard dogs, and to hunt wild boar.

Not too long after China became a communist country, many of the dogs in the country were destroyed. A few dog breeds survived in the rural areas, and several Shar Pei were bred in Taiwan and Hong Kong. The breed was officially recognized by the Hong Kong Kennel Club in 1968.

Around this time, several Chinese Shar Pei were introduced to the United States. In 1973, an article was published pointing out the alarmingly low numbers of the breed. At that time, the Shar Pei was considered one of the rarest breeds in the world. Many dog enthusiasts made great efforts to revive this wonderful breed.

Their efforts really paid off. The breed went from being almost extinct to great popularity and are now one of the most recognizable dog breeds today.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1992 as a member of the Non-Sporting Group.

The Chinese Shar Pei Breed Care and Grooming

The Shar Pei needs daily exercise along with plenty of mental stimulation. Take them on a long walk, or play active games like fetching with them. Be aware that they are sensitive to warm weather.

Grooming requirements for this breed is minimal. Brush them regularly with a good quality dog brush, such as one of those from Chris Christensen. You will need to pay special attention to the facial wrinkles and the skin folds. Examine them for any signs of skin infection.

These Shar Pei is a light shedder.

Health Problems of the Chinese Shar Pei Breed

The average life expectancy of the Chinese Shar Pei breed is up to ten years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• entropion

Minor health issues include:

• amyloidosis (kidney failure)
• otitis externa
• patellar luxation
• skin fold pyodermas
• dog allergies
• hypothyroidism
• fever
• swollen hocks syndrome

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 25 – 27 inches (64 – 69 cm) ; bitches: 24 – 26 inches (61 – 66 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 110 – 133 pounds (50 – 60 kg)  ; bitches: 100 – 120 pounds (45 – 54 kg)
• Life Expectancy: under 10 years
• AKC Group: Working Group – AKC recognized in 1934
• Shedding: light shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); relatively inactive indoors; okay with small yard

Personality of the Bullmastiff Dog

The Bullmastiff is a quiet, gentle, and very laid-back dog. They are not aroused easily, but if they are startled they can be quite a threat to any intruder. These dogs are rated among the best for their guarding and protection abilities.

They are great with children, but it is recommended that you raise them together with the Bullmastiff puppy rather than bringing an adult dog home with the children.

These dogs can be a bit aggressive towards other dogs and animals.

Bullmastiffs tend to drool, slobber, and snore.

History of the Bullmastiff Dog

The Bullmastiff has often been mistaken as one of Britain’s oldest dog breeds. However, that distinction actually goes to the Mastiff, which is a different breed. History does seem to indicate that there were crosses between these two breeds as far back as the 1790s.

The earliest documentation of the Bullmastiff goes back to about the end of the 19th Century. During that time they were used mainly to protect large estates from poachers who were causing big problems for gamekeepers.

Before the Bullmastiff  was developed, the only breeds available to guard and protect against the poachers were the Bulldog and the Mastiff. But the Bulldog was not big enough and the Mastiff was a bit too slow. By crossing these two breeds the Bullmastiff was developed to make a great guard dog.

Over time, dog breeders decided to stop crossing the two breeds and focused instead on creating a pure Bullmastiff. The result was a dog that was approximately 60% – 70% Mastiff and the rest, Bulldog. These breeders were extremely successful in refining the breed and by the early 1920s the English Kennel Club officially recognized the Bullmastiff.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1934 as a member of the Working Group.

The Bullmastiff Dog Care and Grooming

Bullmastiffs do not tolerate extremes in temperatures, so keep that in mind when you are taking them outdoors.

They are large dogs and require daily exercise to keep them healthy and in shape. Like other large breeds, they tend to gain too much weight if not provided with sufficient exercise. However, a brisk walk every day should be sufficient for these large dogs.

Grooming the short-haired coat of the Bullmastiff is easy. It requires only an occasional brushing with a good dog brush to remove any dead hair from the coat. Pay special attention to their feet and keep the nails trimmed because remember these are large dogs.

These dogs are light shedders.

Health Problems of the Bullmastiff Dog

The average life expectancy of the Bullmastiff dog is under ten years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
• gastric torsion
• elbow dysplasia
• prone to bloat

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• mast cell tumors
• hemangiosarcoma
• lymphosarcoma
• SAS (Sub-Aortic Stenosis)
• hypothyroidism
• osteosarcoma
• boils on the lips

Veterinarians recommend having the Bullmastiff dog tested specifically for hip, elbow, and eye problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 24 – 27 inches (61 – 68 cm) ; bitches: 22 – 25 inches (56 – 64 cm)
• Weight: 75 pounds (35 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Herding Group – AKC recognized in 1928
• Shedding: light shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); moderately active indoors; best with average sized yard (minimum)

Personality of the Briard Breed

The Briard is a loyal and intelligent dog. They are friendly towards other family members and other pets, but are very reserved around strangers and other dogs. They make excellent watchdogs and family protectors. They should be socialized early on, especially around children.

These dogs usually do well with children as long as they are raised together. Supervise them around other children who may tease them, since they do not like to be teased at all.

History of the Briard Breed

The Briard originated in France and can be traced as far back as the 1300s. Originally, they were bred to be herding dogs and worked as livestock guardians. The Briard and the Beauceron both originated from French sheep dogs. However, Beauceron dogs came from a short-coated line.

The Briard did not actually gets its name until sometime in the 1800s. The first breed standard was drafted in 1897, and they entered the show ring around 1900.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1928.

The Briard Breed Care and Grooming

Like other members of the Herding Group, the Briard requires a lot of daily exercise. Long daily walks, active outdoor games, or running along while you ride your bicycle are all great activities for the Briard. When given the opportunity, they love to herd. In fact, if left unsupervised, they have a tendency to herd small children.

The Briard has a coarse, dry outer coat which does not easily hold dirt and water. You still need to brush their long coats at least three to four times weekly to prevent matting and tangles. Be prepared to spend a couple hours brushing the coat, and longer if you have neglected it for a while.

These dogs shed very little if they are kept well groomed.

Health Problems of the Briard Breed

The average life expectancy of the Briard breed is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• gastric torsion

Minor health issues include:

• night blindness
• cataracts
• bloat

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) – in some dogs

Veterinarians recommend having the Briard breed tested specifically for hip, eye, and cardiac problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 22 – 25 inches (56 – 63 cm) ; bitches: 21 – 24 inches (53 – 61 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 60 – 70 pounds (27 – 32 kg)  ; bitches: 53 – 65 pounds (24 – 29 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 8 – 10 years
• AKC Group: Working Group – AKC recognized in 1904
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); fairly active indoors; best with average sized yard (minimum)

Personality of Boxers Dog

The Boxer dog breed is one of the favorites among dog owners. They are very outgoing, playful, and loyal. Because of their intelligence and eagerness to learn, they are great dogs for obedience competitions. By nature, they are also protective of their families and their homes, but will welcome people they know.

They are great for active families and are excellent with children.  Boxers are typically well behaved around other dogs and pets.

History of Boxers Dog

The Boxer was developed in 19th Century Germany. It is believed that they were developed by breeding two European breeds that are now extinct. They were the Danziger Bullenbeiser and the Brabenter Bullenbeiser. They were then crossed, sometime later on, with the Mastiff and the Bulldog.

Boxers were originally used for dog fighting, bull baiting, and cart pulling. They were also used as working dogs, to herd cattle and other livestock, and to help hunt and pin wild boar and bison.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1904.

The Boxers Dog Care and Grooming

Boxers require mental and physical stimulation daily. They make great jogging companions and should at least get a long daily walk. They love to play fetch and other active games.

Boxers are sensitive to temperature extremes. Their bodies can overheat easily, and they can get a chill in cold weather. So be on the lookout for any signs of adverse reactions to extreme temperatures.When taking your Boxer outdoors in hot weather, be sure that there is plenty of shade available for her to rest if she is becoming overheated.

Grooming your Boxer is quite easy. Because of their smooth, short-haired coat, a weekly brushing with a firm bristle brush should be sufficient to remove any dead hairs.

The breed is an average shedder.

Health Problems of Boxers Dog

The average life expectancy of Boxers dog is about eight to ten years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• SAS (Sub-Aortic Stenosis)
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• Boxer cardiomyopathy
• more likely than other dog breeds to develop tumors later in their lives

Minor health issues include:

• corneal erosion
• gastric torsion
• hypothyroidism
• colitis

Veterinarians recommend having Boxers dog tested specifically for hip dysplasia, cardiac issues, and potential thyroid problems.

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book: