The Difference Between Boxers & Golden Retrievers

When adding a four-legged companion to your home, it is important to find the best breed of dog to fit you or your family. If you have narrowed your decision down to the popular breeds of the golden retriever and the boxer, look into the differences in order to make the right choice. Take your lifestyle and the needs of the dog breed into consideration so that both parties benefit from the relationship.

  1. Appearance

    • The difference in appearance between the golden retriever versus the boxer is very apparent when comparing the overall look of each dog. The boxer stands from 21 to 25 inches tall and generally weights between 53 and 70 lbs. The golden retriever, on the other hand, stands approximately 20 to 24 inches tall and weights from 55 up to 80 lbs. The boxer is a muscular build with a short, brown coat with white markings. The golden retriever is sturdy with a cream to golden colored-coat that can be straight or wavy and is water-resistant as well. The golden typically is marked with a feathered tail.

    Temperament

    • Although the golden retriever and boxer are known for a similar competitive, loyal and intelligent temperament, there are known differences as well. A boxer uses his paws for everything, which is likely where the name comes from. He will paw at his food and toys. The boxer's playful attitude can cause him to jump on people. He must be taught proper obedience or he can become stubborn, sneaky or hard to control. The golden retriever breed requires being around people who are leads in order to be happy. An owner of a golden can avoid behavior issues by being firm, but calm when giving commands.

    Activity

    • Both the golden retriever and boxer are breeds that require daily physical activity like walking or playing fetch. The golden retriever requires slightly more activity like running alongside his master while his owner jogs or bikes. Additionally, the golden is known for participating in activities such as swimming, hunting, tracking, retrieving and narcotics detection. The boxer breed can work professionally in the military as well as on a search and rescue team.

    Health

    • Both the golden retriever and boxer are likely to suffer from the same health issues like cancer, but each breed does have its own, individual health risks. The boxer is more prone to cardiomyopathy, sub-aortic stenosis, deafness, arthritis, epilepsy and thyroid issues. Once the boxer reaches age 8, he is more likely than other dog breeds to get tumors. More unpleasant health issues of the boxer include snoring, excessive drool and flatulence. The golden retriever is prone to other health issues like Von Willebrand's disease, congenital eye defects and weight gain. It is important to avoid overfeeding a golden.