Be Wise › Pet Wise guides › Dogs › Boxer
Boxer: temperament, health and care
Boxer: temperament, exercise and grooming needs, common health problems and who this dog suits.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Size | Medium-large, about 25–32 kg |
|---|---|
| Typical lifespan | 10–12 years |
| Exercise | High |
| Grooming | Short coat; low grooming |
Temperament and who it suits
Playful, energetic and patient with family; can stay puppyish for years.
Often suits: active families who enjoy play.
Their short noses make them prone to overheating.
Health problems to know about
- Cancers
- Boxer cardiomyopathy
- Hip dysplasia
- Heat sensitivity
- Bloat
Individuals vary. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks, vaccination and weight control.
Before you get a Boxer
- See the puppy with its mother, where it was born
- Ask about health tests on the parents for the conditions above
- Check it is microchipped and registered by eight weeks old
- Consider adopting: breed rescues and rehoming centres often have dogs of this breed looking for homes
See buying a puppy or kitten: Lucy's Law and your rights.
Care, law and costs
See our general guide to dogs for feeding, the law in the UK, what it costs and emergencies, and our guides to microchipping law and toxic foods and plants.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Boxer live?
A Boxer typically lives 10–12 years. Individual health, diet and weight all matter.
How much exercise does a Boxer need?
High.
What health problems are common in a Boxer?
Common concerns include cancers, boxer cardiomyopathy, hip dysplasia, heat sensitivity and bloat. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks.
How much grooming does a Boxer need?
Short coat; low grooming.
Who does a Boxer suit?
It often suits active families who enjoy play. Their short noses make them prone to overheating.
Similar dogs
Sources
- The Royal Kennel Club: breed information and health schemes
- BSAVA: Microchipping legislation in the UK
- Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council: Lucy's Law
Want answers for your situation?
The Be Pet Wise app lets you choose your country and pet, and ask PetBot follow-up questions.
Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See how we check.