At a Glance
Boxer
Pitbull
Boxer-Pit Bull History
Boxer
The Bullenbeissers from northeast Belgium are believed to be the Boxer’s forebears. Hunters relied on the Bullenbeisser to restrain wild boar, deer, and bears until they arrived. The exceptional Boxer wasn’t born until the dog traveled to Germany and was bred with the Old English Bulldog.
Breeders brought Boxers to Europe and the US in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Boxers served as messengers, pack carriers, and guard dogs in World War 1.
It’s rumored The dog’s propensity to stand on his hind legs and attack assailants with his front legs inspired the breed name “Boxer.” It’s cute, but why would German breeders give their puppy an English name?
The AKC (American Kennel Club) ranks the Boxer 11th of 197 common breeds in the US. Of course, he’s popular in many other nations, especially in Europe.
Pitt Bull
The term “Pitbull” encompasses four specific breeds of dogs: the American Pit Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and the American Bulldog.
Their bad reputation comes from their employment as fighting dogs in early 19th-century England. These canines may have descended from the Old English Bulldog and Black and Tan Terrier. These dogs were utilized for bull and bear baiting until 1835.
These laws didn’t stop dog owners from ratting. In specially prepared pits with rats, dogs were timed to kill as many as they could.
After being rejected by the AKC, the dog’s breeders founded the United Kennel Club. By 1930, the AKC was pressured to allow an American dog with a thirty-year history.
Staffordshire Terriers were created since a dog with such a fighting history couldn’t join the ranks.
The American dog’s name was changed to American Staffordshire Terrier by the AKC to avoid confusion with a British dog of the same name.
The AKC does not recognize the American Pit Bull Terrier, although the United Kennel Club and ADBA do.
Overview
Boxers
The Boxer is believed to have originated from Germany and is considered a descendant of the Bullenbeisser. This dog breed is now extinct and known for its ability to bite bulls. The Bullenbeisser was a large dog breed primarily used to hunt larger animals like boar and bulls.
Over time, the Germans recognized the necessity for a smaller and more agile canine that could also serve as a family companion.
The Bullenbeisser was bred with other breeds, although the specific breeds used are unknown. This breeding process ultimately led to the creation of the Boxer.
Where did the name “Boxer” originate from? The breed’s use of its front limbs to defend, similar to a boxer, is where it originates from during play and fights. Currently, the Boxer ranks as the 16th most popular breed of dog in the United States.
Pitbull
Pitbulls often face negative stereotypes because of their history of violence. Still, this breed is known for being incredibly affectionate and can make an excellent addition to any family.
Pitbulls originated in 19th-century England, bred by crossing Bulldogs and Terriers. Initially, they were primarily used as fighting dogs.
Although dog fighting was eventually made illegal in 1835, individuals who migrated to America brought their Pitbulls with them and persisted in engaging in this brutal activity.
In due course, the United States enacted laws to prohibit dog fighting, leading to a shift in the purpose of breeding Pitbulls.
They were intentionally bred to become loving companions for families rather than being raised as aggressive fighters.
Temperament
Boxers
Boxers are often called “family clowns” because they are so goofy. These dogs are really active, so expect lots of zoomies. If you don’t want your Boxer jumping on you all the time, you’ll need to train them to stop.
Boxers are affectionate and playful, but they may be difficult. The Boxer requires patience and care due to their love of slobbering on your face and their inclination to get bored. To avoid destructive behavior, keep this dog busy at all times.
Boxers adore playing with kids, which is a benefit. That doesn’t imply you should leave your kids with them. The breed isn’t violent but big and energetic, so they can accidentally knock kids over. Boxers are extremely devoted and protective of their families, making them good guard dogs.
Pitbulls
The Pitbull breed is known for being sweet, lovable, and thriving on affection. They are also known for their incredible goofiness and love for fun.
However, it is essential to note that animals may still exhibit occasional moments of aggression, although not to the extent that their reputation might suggest. However, you should be fine if a Pitbull is trained and socialized correctly.
These dogs have a good temperament with children, as they are known for their patience. However, similar to Boxers, it is important to never leave them unsupervised with children due to their size and the potential for accidents.
Although these puppies are protective and loyal, they may not be suitable for guard dogs due to their friendly natures. Additionally, it is important to consider the presence of other pets in your home, especially smaller animals.
Pitbulls tend to have high prey drives and may be cautious around unfamiliar animals, making it potentially challenging to have them coexist harmoniously.
Training
Boxers
Boxers can be difficult to train. Boxers may learn rapidly, but they’re stubborn. Boxers’ intransigence makes them do what they want instead of what they want.
Therefore, they need a firm hand while training. These pups also have lots of energy, making training tough.
Boxer pups are simpler to train than adults, so start early. Boxers should also be praised and given rewards. Never employ negative reinforcement!
If you don’t have enough expertise, consult a local trainer for help training a Boxer, as it will likely be a fight of wills.
Pitbulls
Pitbulls are easier to train than Boxers since they adore people. They also learn new commands rapidly due to their intelligence.
However, they can be stubborn (but not as much as a Boxer). Like Boxers, you’ll want to utilize positive reinforcement, which means lots of goodies and praise (these pups can be readily taught to perform things for affection and treats!). Pitbulls must be socialized early to avoid aggressive behavior.
As with the Boxer, hire a trainer if you don’t think you can do it. Training and socialization are essential for Pitbulls!
Medical & Care
Boxers
Although boxers are mostly healthy dogs, there are a few illnesses they are more likely to develop, so you should be aware of them. These consist of:
- Infected ears
- Heart stenosis
- BOAS
- Dysplastic Hips
Pitbulls
Pitbulls are typically healthy (and slightly healthier than Boxers), but they do have a few problems they are prone to developing. Among them are:
- Food and skin allergies
- Obesity
- Dysplastic Hips
- Cataracts
Suitability
Boxers
Due to their exuberant personalities, which run the risk of tipping over younger children, boxers make excellent family dogs but may thrive in households with older children.
The Boxer is not the dog for you if you’re seeking a quiet dog who prefers to spend more time cuddling than playing due to its noisy, energetic nature.
Additionally, because these puppies need a lot of activity to burn off all of their energy, families with big yards are best for them.
Pitbulls
Like the Boxer, the Pitbull is a great family dog, yet it could perform better with older kids due to its size. Other than that, as long as they have adequate exercise and mental stimulation, these puppies can flourish in homes or smaller living spaces like apartments.
However, bear in mind that some housing complexes, landlords, etc., will have bans on Pitbulls, so before getting one, you’ll want to ensure you’re allowed to own one where you reside.
Which breed is the right one for you?
The suitability of owning a Boxer or Pitbull depends on factors such as the amount of time you can dedicate to training and exercise and the available living space for the dog.
Boxers are known for their high energy levels and require ample physical and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and the development of destructive behaviors.
Pitbulls require less exercise than other breeds, but they still tend to get bored easily. Therefore, providing them with plenty of toys and activities is important to keep them entertained.
Both breeds present challenges when it comes to training, as training is essential for both. However, Pitbulls tend to be slightly easier to handle in this regard.
Pitbulls can adapt to living in apartments, although it’s important to note that not all apartment complexes allow them. On the other hand, Boxers are more suited for homes with yards with ample space to run around.
However, both breeds are known for being friendly and loyal companions!
