How Are German Boxers Different Than American Boxers?

The American boxer and German boxer are very similar dogs that showcase just a few differences. Telling apart the dogs can be a difficult task, since both types are normally between 21 1/2 to 25 inches and similar in coloring, according to the American Kennel Club. Where the differences are noticeable are in the body type, head shape and location they originated from.

  1. Location

    • The biggest difference you are going to find between German boxers and American boxers is the country of origin. According to the American Kennel Association, German boxers were developed in the 18th century and were used in Germany for dog fighting and to hold down large game for hunters. The name originated from the dog's ability to stand up on its back paws and act like it is boxing with its front paws. They were imported to America after WWI and became popular in the 1930s. Boxers originating in Germany are considered German boxers, with boxers being bred or born in America being considered American boxers.

    Head Shape

    • German boxers are going to have slightly different heads than American boxers. American boxer heads should be square with well-placed eyes. American varieties should have large noses with open nostrils, and the muzzle should have good length and width. The mouths on American boxers should also be very wide and have big teeth. German boxers normally have smaller noses and smaller muzzles. The eyes are going to be dark and fully pigmented. The skin over the head is going to be smooth and have very few wrinkles. On German boxers, the mouth is wide and there is always a chin present. German boxers often have a rounder skull.

    Body Types

    • The body style of German boxers and American boxers are slightly different. American boxers are an athletic dog that should have a long athletic look without bumps and lumps. They have short-haired tight-fitting skin that should not be wrinkly. There is also no excess skin on the throats. They have long, arched necks and a strong, slightly curved back, which seems long in length. German boxers are considered well boned, meaning they have bigger and more striking bones than American boxers. This type of boxer does have a shorter rear than American boxers. The front also looks well-muscled with a prominent rib cage, a short back and a short loin area.

    Temperament

    • One area in which there is not much difference between American boxers and German boxers is temperament. The American Kennel Club describes boxers as being patient and spirited with children but also protective of them. They have a desire for human affection as well. Both German and American boxers are described as having excellent show temperaments.