The Boxer is considered a medium-sized dog.  The average male Boxer stands 22 - 24 inches at the withers, and his average weight is about 65 pounds.
The female Boxer is only slightly smaller, averaging 21 - 23 inches at the withers, and weighing about 60 pounds.
     A Boxer can be fawn in color.  The fawn shade can range from a light tan to a dark mahogany.  Another color of Boxers can be brindle, which is a combination of shades of brown with dark, or black, flecking.  If white markings are present, these must not exceed 1/3 of the total coloration of the Boxer.  This is especially important if you wish to show the dog in conformation.
     Boxers have a "square-build", and are very sturdy. They have been used quite often in the military, and for police service.  The Boxer has also been used quite successfully in guide and therapy work as well.
     These dogs are considered "hearing" guard dogs.  They will typically be curious about noises that they can not readily identify.  A Boxer will be wary and cautious in the presence of strangers.  They will display tenacity and courage if they, or their family, are threatened.  These dogs can be formidable watch dogs.  For these reasons, any owner should have absolute control over their dog.  Early socialization and obedience training is a must-have for these dogs.
     Boxers are not outside dogs.  They have short hair and are best kept inside with their own special area, even if they do have the run of the entire house.  They have a need to be near their family.  If you are working on a special project, the Boxer wants to be sure it knows what it is and has definite ideas on how it should be done.  Boxers still need to have regular outdoor activities, such as walks and playtime, but indoors is where they need to be.
     A well-bred and well-trained Boxer can be an excellent family dog.  They love to play, and will be tolerant of children.  Children will still need to know how to treat a pet with kindness, but a Boxer is very stoic where it concerns his children.  Boxers are very affectionate, easy-going and normally quiet.  They are not normally hyperactive, instead, demonstrate a high intelligence coupled with trainability.
    A note of caution - if you have other pets besides the Boxer, the Boxer has a low tolerance for other dogs, and a lower tolerance for other Boxers.  A male and female usually don't have too much trouble, but two males will fight for dominance, and two females will compete.  This is not viciousness, this is termed "belligerency."  For this reason early socialization to other animals is very important if you want your Boxer to be tolerant of the non human members of the family.  As far as he/she is concerned, why have these other animals around when you have him/her?
    The A.K.C. includes the Boxer within the Working Group.
     The Boxer is an active, alert and very loving dog, with an average life span of from ten to twelve years.
    As with all dogs, there are some medical concerns that an owner should be aware of.  Many of these concerns can be eliminated by being sure that the breeder is responsible and careful about their breeding practices.  Ask to see the dam, or if possible both parents; tour the kennel area where the dogs are kept; ask the breeder if they show any of these dogs in conformation, or if any of their dogs have been accepted into any service type work (Police, guide or therapy).  Is there a health guarantee and contract provided by the breeder?  Lastly, ask questions about the breed.  If the breeder gives you answers that check out with other breeders and owners, you will know if you have a knowledgeable breeder, who is concerned about producing, and improving, the breed as a whole.