The Mini Boxer : A Loyal Friendly Hybrid Dog

Mini BoxerThe mini boxer is a hybrid dog. Hybrid dogs are created when two purebred canines, from different groups or classes, breed to create a new standard with positive characteristic from both lines. This mini line is a cross between the American boston terrier, which has been around for 125 years, and the boxer, originally from Germany.

The temperament of the mini boxer is kind, gentle, and fun loving, and they can be loyal and even-tempered when raised around children. The bred in non-aggressive and prefers the company of humans.

If not socialized with other dogs, cats, and people, most canines, this one included, will be skeptical of strangers and will not easily tolerate other pets.

Full grown, they can weigh 25 to 30 pounds. Some dogs have been reported upwards of 50 pounds or slightly more, and breeders believe that is the boxer gene coming out. Even though labeled as miniature, they are considered medium size when compared to other breeds.

A nice feature of these mini dogs is they can adapt to many environments. These pups do well in apartments with easy access to the outdoors, suburban living, and ranches with room to roam. The activity requirements are average, meaning they do not need constant motion like border collies, but they need more exercise than a Pekingese or a Shih Tzu; daily walks around the block or playtime with the family are often enough. You will know if your miniature is getting enough exercise because these pups will become mischievous if left to burn off their own energy.

Their physical features are very similar to the standard boxer. The fur is short, smooth, and easy to maintain. This shorter fur is low shedding and usually can be kept clean with a bath every four to six weeks along with weekly brushings. During warmers months, you will want to brush more often. In the colder seasons, do not leave this short coated dog outside. In any outdoor condition, make sure your dog has proper shelter or protection, and plenty of water.

There is a variety of coat colors: black, tan or brown, red or sable, silver, and white or cream. Most of these dogs will have a light colored streak, strip, or blaze down the face and chest, and the nose and eyes are dark brown or black.

Mini boxer’s ears fold down. Floppy ears should be inspected and wiped out weekly to prevent build up and infections. For a quick clean out, moisten gauze or a clean washcloth with ear cleaning solution and gently swab out the inside canal. Never use cotton swabs in your dog’s ear; these can penetrate the eardrum.

Active dog’s toenails will naturally stay short, but young puppies or older dogs will need occasional trimming. This breed’s nails can be black, white, or a combination of both. When trimming the nails you do not want to cut past the blood vessel, which is easy to spot on white nails. If there are any black nails on the pup, trim a small portion off at each sitting. If you accidentally cut the blood vessel, it will bleed. You can stop the bleeding with commercial cauterizing power.

Starting training your miniature boxer to tolerate baths, ear cleanings, and toenail trimmings as a puppy, so you will not have to struggle with them when they are full-grown.

Mini boxers can have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years if relatively healthy. Some health concerns passed on by the boxer breed are hypothyroidism, which once diagnosed can be treated with medication, joint and hip problems, and heart issues, such as cardiomyopathy. Boston Terriers are prone to skin disorders, eye problems, epilepsy, and heart issues. The best practice is to monitor your pet’s health from the beginning by getting annual checkups at your veterinary clinic.

The hybrid mini boxer adapts well to city or country life and is relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming and handling. They are generally healthy with a few possible inherit issues, and possess the qualities of a playful, friendly, and devoted companion.