If you’ve ever had the pleasure of spending time with boxers, you’re aware of the fact that boxers can be at least a little…goofy. Sometimes, they can be downright ridiculous!
Also, you know that boxers are serious, and have a long track record of working in tough conditions with humans. These dogs have been used to do everything from hunting boar to control of cattle as well as even general farm tasks.
What about work for protection? Do boxers make excellent guard dogs?
Boxers excel at protecting tasks and are well-known for their vigilance and attention to detail and devotion to their family and their family. All of these make them excellent guard dogs. They have also a long record of protection and will typically be ready to tackle the job quickly.
We’ll cover everything you’re likely to learn about boxers as guard dogs or watchdogs. But we’ll begin with the story of these mighty dogs.
There’s Guarding In The Boxer Bloodline
As a member of the mastiff breed of dogs, Boxers are the ancient descendants of the now-extinct Bullenbeisser dog which was hunted for bull-baiting, hunting, and of course, guarding.
This means that these snarky dogs are a real bloodline with an extensive history of jobs that required courage, strength, and determination.
In the 1800s, boxers were specifically bred to guard the perimeter, as well as being used as general war dogs.
Boxers were able to blend their experience as hunters of big game catch dogs, and their inherent protection instincts, transforming them into efficient and reliable guard dogs. The hosts of the Fenrir Boxer Show do a fantastic job of explaining a boxer’s past in the role of a security dog. They also explain the reasons why they are called”the “Gentle Guard Dog”:
Watchdog vs Guard Dog…Can Boxers Do Both?
It’s common to hear the term guard dog being used as a synonym for watchdog but it’s actually two distinct duties.
The function of a watchdog is to warn their owner to possible danger by barking. However, a guard dog isn’t just expected to inform their owner, but as well neutralize the threat.
Certain breeds, like Great Danes, can be used to be watchdogs while other breeds are able to perform both.
Boxers belong to the second category and are able to serve as a watchdog as well as guard dogs. But, the exact way they perform depends on their experience and the majority of boxers prefer the barking of their dogs prior to fighting.
When it comes time to take on the threat, their long experience as catch dogs for wild hogs makes them perfect for controlling humans.
We’ll be focusing on the term guard dog throughout the remainder of this post, but be aware that boxers are able to perform both.
What Makes Boxers Good Guard Dogs?
Sure, every dog has the ability to bark at strangers, but it’s not enough to be an effective guard dog!
This is what can help boxers stay above the crowd.
Boxers Are Affectionate, Loyal, and Loving
While the notion of a wild, aggressive and out-of-control dog is popular in the media, that’s not really what you’re looking for in guard dogs.
If you’re looking for dogs that know when it’s time to unwind with your loved ones as well as at the right time, act and be alert. Boxers excel at navigating this line, and they have a long track record of being a good choice for families, including those with young children.
Boxers Are Brave
Security and protection tasks require dogs to be exposed to terrifying, bizarre, and at times frightening situations.
Boxers, just like mastiffs in general have a long tradition that has involved hunting huge game such as boar. This type of work demands tough dogs who aren’t afraid of danger.
Humans were still making the most of boxers’ bravery during each of the World Wars where boxers served as messenger dogs. However, that wasn’t even the first occasion that boxers saw conflict and the mastiff family of dogs the boxer is one of them, have been used as combat dogs for thousands and even thousands of years.
Boxers Are Strong and Athletic
Boxers may seem smaller than famous guard dogs such as the Rottweiler However, they still possess plenty of physical force to frighten most criminals and also act if required.
They’re far from being their status as the fastest dogs around the globe however they can be able to easily beat a human intrusion. Boxers can weigh as high as 60 pounds, and they have lots of muscle.
As crucial and equally important as being able to use the muscle is understanding how to utilize it. Boxers and their predecessors were hunting hogs, which included holding onto powerful wild pigs and refusing to let them go. It’s a job that requires an athletic physique and a lot of muscle.
The boxer has changed their appearance since the days of hog hunting in England but the pups have the ability to make great guard dogs.
Boxers Have Natural Protection Instincts
While you could train your dog to perform almost everything a dog could accomplish, if you choose an untraditional breed, it makes your life a lot more difficult.
All dogs possess territorial instincts which can be used as an effective tool for watching and guarding however you’ll have more success with the dog with the background of being specifically bred to be a guard dog.
The boxers are specially bred to Germany to serve as guard dogs. That’s why traits such as an alertness level and territoriality, as well as the need to attack potential dangers, are all ingrained into the brains of the majority of boxers.
Therefore, instead of having to create security and guarding instincts, all you need to do is to manage your boxer’s current drives.
Boxers Love Having A Job
There’s a reason why boxers have played numerous roles throughout the years. These playful dogs love to have a job. Whatever it is, helping with hunting or helping out on in the fields or even performing agility it’s a fact that boxers enjoy having something to accomplish.
Watchdog or guard dog work is a different job that boxers will be glad to accept.
What Could Hold Boxers Back As Guard Dogs?
However, it’s not perfect and there are a number of things that may make boxers vulnerable when it comes to defending.
Boxers Aren’t Very Weather Resistant
Some guards require dogs to be out in the open, looking over their turf.
Although it’s a completely different kind of protection livestock guard dogs wear large double coats to serve this reason. Dogs such as the Great Pyrenees were designed to be outdoors in the livestock they’re protecting.
It’s not the type of work that boxers are prepared for but they might have to be outdoors in order to finish the job.
With a shorter single coat, boxers aren’t prepared for colder temperatures. Their snout is brachycephalic, which places the breed at risk when it comes to hot weather, too. They are able to withstand hotter temperatures better than dogs like a pug, however, they’re not built for extreme temperatures like some breeds.
If you’re looking to get some more peace of mind for your home and you’re looking for a way to keep your family safe, the boxer can be a good option. If however, you have a vast space and you reside in a different location than the most temperate climate , then the boxer might not be the ideal choice for you.
Boxers Aren’t Big Barkers
Boxers aren’t among the loudest breeds, which can be thought of as an advantage or disadvantage in the sense of guarding work. Although the breeds aren’t afraid of unleashing a snarling grunt in the event that they believe that something’s wrong, however, they generally don’t let out a bark unless there’s an actual risk or threat.
If you’re within a city, it is a good thing because you don’t wish for your dog to be the entire day barking at possible threats.
If you’re looking to cast a large web of warnings, the boxer’s particular bark might not be what you’re seeking.
Boxers Are Intelligent But Can Be Stubborn
Boxers aren’t brainless however they aren’t as clever as other breeds of guard dogs like Rottweilers.
The canine psychology expert Stanely Coren classified boxers in the middle in the ability to obey and intelligence in the same class as breeds such as pointers, great Danes and greyhounds.
It’s also important to note that a portion of Coren’s ranking also takes into account the likelihood that dogs follow instructions on the first attempt. According to Coren, the boxers follow instructions initially around 50 percent of the time. If you’ve dealt with a boxer who was stubborn, this figure may be generous.
It has also led people to believe that boxers are dumb, when in fact they’re doing what they like. The cute Layla is a great illustration of this, as she was politely refusing to leave the couch:
What is the significance of this to a dog that is a guard?
It’s all about the individual. Your boxer won’t immediately decide to stop barking at burglars – the desire to be secure is simply too strong. It’s something that all boxers are prone to do.
If you’re instead insisting on your boxer doing something they aren’t would like to perform as part of their security work, then you may face difficulties.
If your dog can protect you from your couch, then there’s no problem!
How To Set Your Boxer Up For Guard Dog Success
Although the instinctual protection instincts of boxers are present, they will require some assistance to be excellent guard dogs.
Set Expectations
There have been numerous instances where boxers possess a naturally protection instinct but that does not mean that they instantly get to be a guardian without instruction. It’s best to begin with the basics and progress from there.
It’s not just taking some time, but in some instances it can take a lot of expertise to train your boxer what to know.
You should go into training with realistic expectations of how long it’ll be for your boxer’s to begin their guarding work. And don’t be afraid of consulting an expert!
Socialize Early and Often
Although boxers aren’t particularly popular for their aggression, it is true that socialization is essential for all breed. Particularly for watchdog or guard dog in which boxers have to continuously test their knowledge of what constitutes dangerous and what’s not.
Also, you should ensure that your boxer will quickly discern the acceptable and unacceptable. It’s also a good idea to give your boxer an introduction instruction that tells them that it’s fine to go “at ease” and meet someone new.
The last thing you want is the guard dog who’s constantly barking and is constantly behaving suspiciously towards everyone. It’s similar to the car alarm that’s always sounding, and eventually people don’t pay at all.
Should You Have Two Boxers For Guard Dogs?
It’s common to see guard dogs working as teams. It’s not just that this makes sense from an security standpoint because you’re effectively doubling your security, but the majority of boxers would like the chance to get social with other dogs.
Two boxers may be quite an issue as you’ll double your security, but also your grit as you’re dealing with two boxers. manage. Therefore, unless you’re a skilled trainer, it’s probably a good option to choose a more loyal dog to be a companion for the boxer you have.
Legal Considerations For Having A Boxer As A Guard Dog
In contrast to the breeds that are commonly banned, like Pitbulls as well as Rottweilers and Rottweilers, boxers aren’t considered to be dangerous by the majority of authorities. So, the majority of insurance companies won’t cost you extra for having boxers, but when you claim that your dog is a guard dog, and you have a guard dog, then you could be eligible for higher rates.
Although you’ll generally be held accountable when your dog bites someone in any circumstance, the legal repercussions may be much more serious for both you and your dog if you teach your dog to guard work.
This doesn’t mean that you should not prepare your boxer as a guard dog , but it’s vital to have an understanding of what you’re into.
Closing Thoughts
It’s hard to imagine a boxer tackling the tough job of watching and protecting however it’s a job the dogs were specifically created to perform.
However, it does not mean that boxers do not want to curl up on the couch occasionally however, with the right training, they’ll be able to perform as watchdogs or guard dogs.