At first glance, the Boxer, with its prominent lower jaw, docked tail, and often cropped ears, may appear as a majestic and somewhat imposing figure. However, beneath this formidable exterior lies the heart of a dog known for its unwavering loyalty and playful, puppy-like nature. In fact, Boxers are often called the “Peter Pan of dogs” due to their enduring youthfulness, a trait celebrated each year on National Boxer Day!
When is National Boxer Day?
National Boxer Day is celebrated annually on January 17. The holiday was established in 2020 by TheWoofBook, a Facebook group dedicated to dog lovers.
Fun Facts About Boxers
In honor of National Boxer Day, here are some interesting facts about the breed:
- The Boxer was developed in Germany in the late 19th century by crossbreeding Bulldogs from Great Britain with the Bullenbeisser, a powerful mastiff-type breed that became extinct in the early 20th century.
- The origin of the name “Boxer” is debated. Some believe it was inspired by the breed’s ancestor, the Bullenbeisser (German Bulldog), while others suggest it comes from the breed’s tendency to stand on its hind legs and “box” with its front paws. The name might also have derived from “baxer,” an old German spelling of boxer.
- In 1946, two courageous Boxers named Punch and Judy received the prestigious Dickin Medal for their bravery in saving the lives of two British officers by attacking a terrorist in Palestine. The medal was presented by the British veterinary charity, the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA).
- Over the years, Boxers have taken on various roles, from assisting hunters and butchers to serving as police dogs, guard dogs, military messengers, and service animals.
- Boxer coats come in two AKC-recognized colors: brindle and fawn. Approximately 25% of Boxers are “white,” meaning that “flash” (white markings) covers most of their bodies. Unfortunately, Boxer puppies born white were once euthanized by breeders to prevent perpetuating what was considered a flawed trait.
- Boxers are born with floppy ears and long tails, which are often docked in some countries to give the dog a more formidable appearance.
- In 2002, a Boxer named Brandy set a Guinness World Record for having the longest tongue ever measured on a canine, reaching an impressive 17 inches (43 cm)—a record that still stands today.
- The Boxer consistently ranks high in popularity among dog breeds, coming in at 14th place on the American Kennel Club’s list in 2021.
- The Boxer gained popularity in the United States after World War II when returning soldiers brought many members of the breed home with them.
- A sculpture of a Boxer is featured among 27 dog statues at the Fido-centric fountain in Toronto’s Berczy Park, which was unveiled in 2017.
- Although a Boxer has never won Best in Show at the National Dog Show or Crufts, the breed has triumphed several times at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. The first Boxer to win Best in Show at Westminster was Warlord of Mazelaine in 1947, followed by Mazelaine Zazarac Brandy in 1949, Bang Away of Sirrah Crest in 1951, and Arriba’s Prima Donna in 1970.
Famous Boxers on the Big Screen
- Good Boy!— Two Boxers, Lita and Lexi, played the role of a cookie-loving canine named Wilson in this 2003 comedy, with Donald Faison providing the character’s voice.
- Dog Park— A Boxer appeared in the cast of canines in this 1998 romantic comedy, which also starred Luke Wilson, Natasha Henstridge, and Janeane Garofalo.
Famous Boxer Owners
Here are a few celebrities who have been lucky enough to share their lives with a Boxer:
- Lauren Bacall and Humphrey Bogart— The iconic couple received their first Boxer, Harvey, as a wedding gift. They later welcomed two more Boxers, Baby (a nod to Bacall’s nickname) and George.
- Miley Cyrus— The singer adopted a rescue Boxer named Kate Moss in 2020, a former breeding dog who escaped her fate.
- Clark Gable and Carole Lombard— The Hollywood couple had a Boxer named Tuffy, who even shared a 1939 Movie Mirror cover with Gable.
- Billie Holiday— The jazz legend’s relationship with her Boxer is featured in the children’s book Mister and Lady Day.
- Alan Ladd— The actor was the proud owner of a Dachshund and two Boxers named Jezebel and Brindie.
- Luke Perry— The late actor had two Boxers named Casey and Mac.
- Pablo Picasso— The famous artist had a Boxer named Jan, among other pets.
- Justin Timberlake— The pop star was once a pet parent to two Boxer/Lab mixes named Buckley and Brennan.
- Kate Upton— The supermodel, known for her animal advocacy, had a Boxer named Harley, who crossed the Rainbow Bridge in 2021.
Adopting a Boxer
If you’re thinking about adding a Boxer to your family, check out Across America Boxer Rescue, a foster-based non-profit that finds forever homes for Boxers who end up in shelters or are abandoned.
You can also search for adoptable Boxers online at: