Boxador

Characteristics

Health & Longevity

Average Life Span: 12-15 years
The Boxador is a crossbreed of the Boxer and the Labrador Retriever. Like all hybrid dogs, the Boxador may experience less hereditary health issues than his purebred counterparts. However, there is still the possibility that he may be affected by health problems experienced by either parent breed.

Joint issues like hip and elbow dysplasia may impact some Boxadors. Both conditions are degenerative and can lead to discomfort, pain, and limping. In more severe cases, they can result in arthritis or even lameness, and surgery may be required. Elbow dysplasia is the result of a malformed joint. Similarly, hip dysplasia occurs when a malformed hip joint does not allow the thighbone to fit properly into place. Although it is hereditary, hip dysplasia can also be triggered by rapid weight gain and injury. While your pup’s joints are still developing, monitor his activity and ensure that he does not run on slippery floors or jump excessively.

Boxadors may also be affected by gastric torsion, or bloat. Bloat occurs when the stomach fills with gas, fluid, or food, causing it to expand dangerously and put pressure on other organs. In some cases, the stomach twists, trapping blood in the stomach and preventing it from flowing to the heart and other vital areas. Bloat can be deadly, so take your dog to the veterinarian immediately if you notice symptoms like pale gums, excessive drooling, failed attempts to vomit, or a swollen stomach. In some cases, bloat can be treated by relieving the pressure in the stomach with either a tube or a hollow needle. In other cases, steroids, antibiotics, or intravenous fluids may be required. Emergency surgery will be needed if the stomach has twisted so that the veterinarian can untwist it and return it to its proper place.

Other health issues the Boxador may experience include allergies and eye problems.

On average, the Boxador has a lifespan of 12-15 years.

Temperament & Train-ability

Like all hybrid dogs, the Boxador’s temperament may vary. However, the average Boxador is an extremely loving, affectionate, playful, and humorous dog. He is also highly intelligent and forms strong, loyal bonds with his family. It is important to note that the Boxador typically does not thrive in extreme temperatures.

The Boxador needs plenty of exercise and should not live in an apartment. He needs at least an hour of exercise each day, which can include jogging, going for long, brisk walks, or running in a securely fenced yard. If not properly exercised, the Boxador may become loud or destructive. The same applies if he is left alone for long periods of time. The Boxador likes to be with his family, and he can get separation anxiety, leading to howling, barking, or whining as well as destructive chewing.

Like both parent breeds, the Boxador is great with children and will be very devoted to the children in his life. If properly socialized, he can get along well with dogs and other pets. He may chase smaller animals. The average Boxador is polite and sometimes even friendly with strangers. At the same time, he can make a good guard dog unless he is too much like his Labrador parent. If he takes after the Labrador parent, he may be too friendly to be utilized as a guard dog. He will bark if he feels it is necessary, but he has a generally calm disposition and is unlikely to bark without cause (unless he is left alone for too long).

The Boxador is a highly trainable, intelligent breed who wants to please his owner. In general, these are sweet and obedient dogs who will usually require fewer repetitions than other breeds to learn new skills. Use positive reinforcement like treats, extra playtime, and plenty of verbal praise when earned. Due to his intelligence, be sure to vary your training routines and keep him challenged. Be clear and consistent in enforcing all of your rules and expectations, and training the Boxador should be a fun, fairly painless experience for both you and your dog.

Grooming

The Boxador is known for his glossy, short coat. Weekly brushing is usually sufficient, but he does experience a heavy shed in the summer. During this period, daily brushing may be required to keep dead hair and shedding to a minimum.

Bathe your Boxador only as needed. Over bathing can damage the natural oils that give his coat its glossy shine. In the summer, you may want to bathe him a bit more frequently to help alleviate excessive shedding.

Trim his nails as needed, and check his ears regularly for signs of infection like redness, tenderness, and odor. Brush his teeth at least 2-3 times each week to prevent bad breath and maintain overall health.

Diet

The average Boxador should consume 4-5 cups of high-quality dry dog food daily. Choose a food with meat listed as the first ingredient, and divide it into two meals. Remember that the best type and amount of food for your individual dog depends on variables like age, metabolism, weight, and activity level. The Boxador is prone to obesity, so be sure that you are not overfeeding your dog.

Take preventative measures against bloat by ensuring that your dog does not eat too rapidly. Do not let him drink excessive amounts of water directly before or after eating, and impose at least a one-hour waiting period between eating and exercising. Do not use a raised bowl unless specifically instructed to do so by your veterinarian.
 

Find A Boxador Breeder

Boxador Puppies For Sale

Adopt A Boxador

Cost

The Boxador is fairly inexpensive, with prices averaging $500-$850. Pricing may vary according to breeder location, gender, and pedigree.

If you are able to adopt a Boxador, expect adoption fees to cost up to $175.

Paws ‘N’ Pups Ranking

Paws ‘N’ Pups ranks every breed out of 4 with 1 being easiest to integrate into your life and 4 being the toughest – The lower the ranking the better.

Ranking takes into account a few basic factors including cost, skill level needed, high vs low maintenance and how critical regular training is to success. The Boxador ranks a 2. He is generally healthy and tends to get along well with people and animals alike, and he is typically highly trainable. However, he does require a minimum of one hour of exercise each day, he should not live in an apartment, and he can be prone to separation anxiety. The Boxador can be a good choice for an active owner who is willing to commit to providing adequate exercise and companionship.

 

Boxer

Labrador Retriever

Goldendoodle

Golden Retriever