Boxers are fun-loving, loyal, and alert dogs with an athletic build. Bred originally for big-game hunting, the Boxer is considered a medium to large-sized dog. They are excellent with children and astute watch dogs. Today, they’re known for being one of America’s top ten most popular dog breeds and having the longest tongue among dogs. If you have a Boxer puppy, you may be asking yourself how large can a Boxer grow and how do I know that my Boxer is finished growing?
The following numbers are all estimates to help you approximate how big your Boxer will be at certain ages. These are estimates, so don’t worry if your Boxer is slightly behind or ahead of these numbers. Simply continue taking your Boxer to regular veterinary appointments to make sure they are happy and healthy.
Pro Tip: Want to get reimbursed for your dog’s vet bills? Compare Boxer health insurance options and enroll to save big on vet costs (and peace of mind).
Growth Stage: Between 8–16 weeks
Boxers are fiercely protective of their owners, so proper socialization is a necessity. “Socialization begins the moment the puppy enters their new home,” says Shames. “Boxers are very social dogs if introduced properly.”
Debra Henkle, dog trainer and owner of Vendetta Boxers in Vallejo, California, recommends owners start introductions to friendly people and pets with a few caveats. “Puppies won’t likely have all their shots until they are 16 weeks old, so make sure visitors haven’t been to places like dog parks, pet stores, vets or other spots they could have been exposed to dogs who may be sick,” she advises.
You’ll also want to enroll in the AKC Family Dog Program, because it’s a great way to socialize your pooch. “Most training clubs allow puppies as young as eight weeks old to enroll if you provide proof of the dog’s first shots, which I highly recommend,” says Henkle.
Although Boxers are short-haired dogs who are easy to keep clean, many drool, so you’ll need to get them used to basic grooming. “Using a dampened washcloth, gently wipe between the folds on the muzzle and under the dewlaps to clean up that drool,” recommends dog trainer and behaviorist Lynda Taylor of Breed Advisor. You can also wipe down their coat and paws between baths to remove any dirt, says Shames.
Most importantly, you’ll want your little Boxer puppy to associate brushes and washcloths with positive rewards like food and praise so that these grooming tools won’t seem scary, recommends dog trainer Russell Hartstein, owner of Fun Paw Care Dog Training in Los Angeles, California. “Also, get the pup used to being touched on the muzzle, toes, body, tail, and hindquarters because these are areas you’ll touch during baths and that your vet will check during exams,” he says.
Boxers were originally bred to hunt large prey like wild boar and bison, so you don’t want them to channel their natural instincts into destructive behaviors like hunting your shoes and stealing your snacks. “Boxers are bright and energetic, so start teaching them basic obedience commands like ‘Sit,’ ‘Stay,’ and ‘Come,’ immediately after bringing them home,” advises Hartstein.
Henkle recommends consistency when it comes to training Boxers. “They love to learn but can be stubborn and respond best to reward-based positive reinforcement training,” she says. Yummy rewards like small pieces of chicken or hot dog work best. “The more you train Boxers, the better they’ll be and the less chance they’ll get bored and destructive.”
Clubs Offering:
With their chiseled features, muscular bodies, and square jaws, Boxers are the movie stars of the dog world. These handsome pups are known for their loyalty, quick wit, and protective nature, but these charming characteristics also mean Boxer pups have a few special considerations when it comes to training and socialization.
We spoke with several Boxer experts, including the American Boxer Club’s Publicity Chairperson and their Dean of Boxer U, Virginia Shames to get some advice on raising these wonderful dogs.
What is the size of a full-grown Boxer?
According to the American Kennel Club Official Boxer Standards, a full-grown male Boxer will stand around 23 to 25 inches tall, while a female Boxer will stand about 21.5 to 23.5 inches tall. A fully grown male Boxer will weigh around 60 to 70 pounds, with their female counterpart will weigh about 55 to 65 pounds.
FAQ
How much should a 3 week old Boxer puppy weigh?
How long until Boxer puppies open their eyes?
Between three and eight weeks old, your Boxer pup should weigh between 6 to 7 pounds (2.5 to 3 kg) and 17 to 19 pounds (8 to 8.5 kg).