When considering different dog breeds to add to your family, it’s important to weigh the pros, the cons, and everything in between. You need to consider the breed’s size, demeanor, and exercise needs, but one of the most essential topics to research is a dog breed’s health.
So what about boxers? These energetic mastiff relatives are famous for their goofy personalities and squished faces, but there’s so much more to them than that. Let’s dive into common boxer dog breed health issues so prospective dog owners can know what to look out for. With a little research and a trusted veterinarian on your side, you’ll be well prepared to care for your new boxer BFF.
Do boxers have many health problems?
It’s important to remember that no dog breed (or combination of breeds) is free from health concerns and predispositions. A number of components influence a dog’s health, from individual genetics to environmental factors, but it can also be completely random. That being said, some dog breeds — including boxers — are prone to developing more health conditions than others.
Why do boxers have so many health problems?
Like with other breeds, boxers’ health issues are primarily a result of genetics. These dogs have been bred to have short, squished snouts (this is called brachycephaly), which can result in a number of health concerns due to an unnaturally short airway. Boxer breeders can help reduce their litters’ health risks by screening parents for genetic disorders before breeding, while boxer rescuers and owners can keep their pets healthy by keeping up with regular vet visits.
White-colored boxers have also been found to carry more significant health risks, though this doesn’t mean that every white boxer will become ill. These dogs are more likely to be born deaf or develop deafness due to a lack of pigmented skin in the ears, and their light colored skin makes them more susceptible to sunburn and skin cancer. With just a little planning, however, these dogs can stay safe and healthy, too.
Boxer dog breed health issues to look out for
Although boxers are prone to several health concerns, owners will be glad to know that most of them can be managed with veterinary care and healthy habits. Here’s what to keep an eye out for:
Hypothyroidism can be diagnosed via vet visit
Boxers are just one of many dog breeds that are susceptible to hypothyroidism. When this occurs, the thyroid gland stops working as efficiently as it should. Without enough thyroid hormone in the body, dogs can experience metabolic changes such as weight gain, hair loss, high cholesterol, and recurrent skin and ear infections.
Boxers are more at risk for cranial cruciate ligament disease
The cranial cruciate ligament (called the anterior cruciate ligament in humans) helps keep the knees stable and functional. It’s normal for joints to wear down somewhat over time, but boxers are more susceptible to experiencing severe or long-term damage from day-to-day movement. Maintaining a healthy weight and prioritizing joint health as your dog ages can help keep this joint — and all their joints — better protected.
Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (also called “boxer arrhythmia”)
Although the boxer isn’t the largest dog breed out there, these pups can experience some large dog health issues, such as dilated cardiomyopathy. This heart muscle disease is primarily caused by a specific genetic mutation that’s common among large breeds, but boxers can have a very specific type of DCM called arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. Their normal heart muscle tissue is slowly replaced by fatty scar tissue, which can lead to scary health concerns like fainting, arrhythmia, and congestive heart failure.
Digestive issues are common in boxers
Some dog breeds, including boxers, are famous for having sensitive stomachs. Many boxers are diagnosed with a food allergy or form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) at some point during their life. However, a specific form of IBD called granulomatous colitis is almost exclusive to boxers, French bulldogs, and mastiff-type dogs. Symptoms include bloody diarrhea, weight loss, anemia, and lethargy. Unfortunately, this is a heritable disease that can be passed down to future generations, but most cases have a positive long-term outcome.
Gastric dilatation-volvulus, also called bloat can be deadly
Larger breed dogs and deep-chested breeds like boxers are more at risk of gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), a severe form of bloat that can be life-threatening within minutes. This occurs suddenly when a dog’s stomach fills with food or gas, and the increased pressure causes it to rotate. This can cut off blood supply to the stomach and other organs, leading to shock, tissue damage, and death. Needless to say, this is an emergency that requires immediate veterinary intervention.
Visit the vet regularly to screen for cancer
Many dog breeds are at risk of developing cancer, and your boxer is no exception. In fact, cancers such as brain tumors, lymphoma, mammary cancer, and osteosarcoma are some of the most commonly diagnosed health issues in boxers. Early detection is key to a smooth and successful treatment, so be sure to keep up with veterinary check-ups and don’t wait to make an appointment if you notice any canine cancer symptoms.
Health complications due to brachycephalic facial structure
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome is the name given to the group of symptoms that occur as a result of a shortened airway and facial structure. These dogs may struggle to breathe normally, struggle to exercise, and overheat easily. Symptoms can range from severe to nonexistent, but responsible breeding can help eliminate the problem in future litters. This is just one more reason to do your research before supporting a boxer breeder (or any breeder for that matter)!
Try not to let these health concerns deter you from exploring a wonderful dog breed. Remember — every breed has its own predispositions, and none of them are guarantees of challenges to come. There are many healthy dogs out there, and yours could be, too!
