The Boxer and English Mastiff mix is a unique and loving companion, but it's essential to understand their needs and characteristics before bringing one home. This breed requires regular exercise, with a minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity per day.
Their energy levels are moderate to high, making them a great fit for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities. They are also prone to obesity, so a balanced diet and regular exercise are crucial.
A Boxer and English Mastiff mix needs plenty of space to move around, making a spacious living area a must. They can weigh up to 130 pounds and stand as tall as 30 inches, so a large yard or regular walks are necessary to keep them happy and healthy.
Temperament: A Paradox
The Boxer and English Mastiff mix, affectionately known as the Boxmas, is a delightful paradox. They're a large breed, but their playful nature makes them tire themselves out quickly.
Their size and weight make them perfect for families with kids, as they're naturally great with children and have a protective yet patient nature. They're also known to be loving and playful with everyone who has their owner's approval.
You might be surprised to learn that despite their intimidating size, Boxmas dogs are not overly barky, but they will alert you when they think it's necessary. This means they're great watchdogs without being too loud or aggressive.
One thing to keep in mind is that Boxmas dogs need regular training and socialization when they're young to ensure they don't become too protective or wary of strangers. With proper training, they'll be happy to curl up and rest for a few hours after playing or a walk.
To keep their bright minds engaged, try food puzzles and low-intensity trick training. This will help prevent boredom and destructive behavior when they're left alone throughout the day.
Additional reading: English Mastiff Size Comparison
Physical Attributes: The Giant Blend
The Boxer and English Mastiff Mix is a sturdy breed, with a muscular frame that's instantly noticeable. They can weigh anywhere between 70 to 100 pounds or more.
Their height can reach anywhere from 23 to 30 inches, making them a tall and impressive breed. Typically, males are at the higher end of the scale.
Their coat is often short and shiny, and can vary in colors, including brindle, fawn, and apricot shades. Regular grooming will ensure their coat stays in prime condition.
As they grow, their paws may look huge at birth, but they eventually grow into them.
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Care and Maintenance
Boxer and English Mastiff mixes need regular exercise to stay mentally and physically stimulated. A mix of play and training sessions is a great way to keep them active.
Feeding them a balanced diet is crucial, as overfeeding can lead to obesity, while underfeeding can leave them malnourished. This means monitoring their food intake and adjusting as needed.
Regular brushing is essential, even for their short coats, to remove loose fur and keep their coat shiny. Daily brushing also helps eliminate dirt accumulation and hair in the house.
Puppy Care
Feeding your Boxer Mastiff Mix puppy requires a balanced diet to prevent obesity and malnutrition. A mix of play and training sessions will keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
Their size means they need regular exercise to stay healthy, but over-exercising at a young age can strain their joints. Ensure they have a balanced diet to prevent obesity.
To keep your puppy entertained and stimulated, try puzzle toys with treats or allow them to patrol their yard. They'll greatly appreciate the freedom and mental stimulation.
A Boxer Mastiff Mix puppy needs at least 60 minutes of exercise a day to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. This can include high-intensity playtime and interaction with their humans.
Here are some exercise essentials for your puppy:
- OxGord BazooK-9 Tennis Ball Launcher Gun
- Planet Dog Orbee-Tuff Cosmos, Luna
- Nylabone Big Chew Durable Toy Bone For Large Breeds
- KONG Wubba Dog Toy
- Playology Dual Layer Bone Dog Toy Bacon Scent
Remember, a tired dog is a happy dog, so ensure they burn off their energy with regular play sessions. This will result in a calmer, more content pet.
Grooming Your
Grooming Your Boxer Mastiff Mix is essential for their overall health and well-being. Regular brushing is a must, especially since they shed in large amounts.
Their short coat may seem low-maintenance, but daily brushing will help eliminate dirt and hair accumulation in the house. It's also a great way to keep their coat shiny and healthy.
Bathing your Boxer Mastiff Mix is necessary, but be careful not to overdo it, as this can cause dryness and oil production. You should aim to bathe them only when necessary.
Don't forget to clean their ears and brush their teeth every day. This will help prevent dirt and bacterial accumulation, which can lead to infections.
Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental checks are crucial for your Boxer Mastiff Mix's overall health.
Small Pet Care
When you bring home a Boxer Mastiff Mix, you might wonder how they'll interact with smaller pets. Given their hunting background, it's natural to worry.
Smaller pets like cats, rabbits, or birds might pique their interest, but with proper introductions and supervised interactions, many can live harmoniously.
It's all about early socialization and understanding individual personalities, and some households even have the giant blend snuggling up with a house cat.
In some cases, the Boxer Mastiff Mix will watch birds with sheer curiosity rather than predatory intent, so patience and observation are key.
Health and Wellness
As a responsible dog owner, it's essential to be aware of the potential health concerns that can affect your Boxer and English Mastiff mix. Hip dysplasia is a genetic disease that can cause immense pain for your dog, and if left untreated, may lead to crippling and painful arthritis of the joints.
Regular check-ups with your vet are crucial, even if your dog doesn't show any signs or symptoms of illness. This will ensure they're 100% healthy and thriving. Your vet may recommend vitamins or supplements to improve your dog's health.
Some common health issues in Boxer and English Mastiff mixes include thyroid deficiency and eye problems. It's also essential to be aware of brachycephalic syndrome, which can cause breathing difficulties in dogs with flat faces.
Here are some potential health concerns to watch out for in your Boxer and English Mastiff mix:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Gastric Torsion (also known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)
- Ectropion (droopy eyelids)
- Thyroid deficiency
- Eye problems
- Brachycephalic syndrome
Training and Socialization
Training and socialization are crucial for a Boxer and English Mastiff mix. This breed is intelligent and energetic, so you'll need to plan many exercises for the week to keep their mind and body active.
To keep their attention focused on training, it's essential to train every day. This will help your dog figure things out and decide on their own, but you'll need to persevere and be patient.
Positive reinforcement is a great strategy to train your dog, as it taps into the mental aspect. Your Boxer Mastiff mix will automatically think that the specific actions you want them to do will earn a treat.
Early socialization is also crucial for this breed. Exposing them to various situations, people, and other animals will ensure they grow up to be well-rounded dogs.
Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Plan many exercises for the week to keep your dog's mind and body active.
- Train every day to keep your dog's attention focused.
- Use positive reinforcement to tap into your dog's mental aspect.
- Start training and socializing early to ensure your dog grows up to be well-rounded.
- Be prepared to spend a significant amount of time training your large Boxer Mastiff mix to interact safely with humans and other dogs.
Family and Lifestyle
As a responsible owner, it's essential to remember that Boxer Mastiff Mixes can be large and energetic, so they need plenty of space to move around, especially around children to avoid unwanted accidents.
You'll want to socialize your hybrid from an early age by taking them to the park to play with other dogs and getting them used to seeing strangers daily. This will help them become confident and calm in new situations.
With proper training, Boxer Mastiff Mixes are very loyal and protective, making them a great addition to families with children. They'll be happy to play and interact with the kids, but it's crucial to supervise playtime to ensure everyone's safety.
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Exercise & Living
Exercise is a must for your Boxer Mastiff Mix. They need at least 60 minutes of exercise a day to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Their high energy levels require high-intensity playtime and interaction with their humans. Activities like playing frisbee, visiting dog agility courses, or even a bit of boxing can help them expel their excess energy.
A Boxer Mastiff Mix will also need mental stimulation during their downtime. Puzzle toys with treats in them are a great way to keep them entertained and engaged.
It's essential to choose a home with adequate running space if you plan to adopt a Boxmas. If not, taking trips to the park or jogging around the neighborhood can help fulfill their need to stay fit.
Here are some toys that can help exercise your Boxer Mastiff Mix:
- OxGord BazooK-9 Tennis Ball Launcher Gun: A perfect toy for visiting parks or playing in the backyard.
- Planet Dog Orbee-Tuff Cosmos, Luna: A glowing toy ball that stimulates their brains during day and night.
- Nylabone Big Chew Durable Toy Bone For Large Breeds: A product that ensures oral hygiene and prevents periodontal disease.
- KONG Wubba Dog Toy: A durable toy with two balls inside, one chewable and one squeaky, that will be a Boxmas favorite.
- Playology Dual Layer Bone Dog Toy Bacon Scent: A good investment that lasts for six months and reduces the risk of periodontal diseases.
Remember, a tired dog is a happy dog. Ensuring your Boxer Mastiff Mix burns off their energy will result in a calmer, more content pet.
Families
Boxer Mastiff mixes are very loyal and fun, making them great family pets. They're active and playful, so be prepared for plenty of energy in the house.
Leaving them with children is okay, as long as you've undergone socialization training and provided a big space for them to move around. They're large dogs and might be prone to crashes if confined in a small space.
Their temperament from both parent breeds ensures there's no aggressiveness or violence, as long as you provide proper training. Older members of the family can pitch in and help train the big fellow, giving them more exposure to different people.
Boxer Mastiff mixes are suitable for life with children, but their large size and sometimes excitable nature means they can knock small children over. You need to do a fair amount of training to make sure family and friends are accepted into your home with the minimum of fuss.
Their kind and loving nature makes them a great addition to any family, but it's essential to start training and socializing them as early as possible to avoid any unwanted behavior. With proper training and socialization, they'll be a loving and loyal companion for years to come.
Responsible Pet Ownership
If you're considering bringing a Boxer and English Mastiff Mix into your family, it's essential to do your research and make responsible choices. Adopting from a shelter or rescue group can be a rewarding experience, giving a loving dog a second chance at a forever home.
Opting for an ethical breeder is also a great way to ensure you're getting a healthy pup. Many breeders prioritize the well-being of their dogs and provide proper care and socialization.
As a responsible pet owner, it's crucial to be aware of the potential health issues that can affect your Boxer and English Mastiff Mix. Regular vet check-ups can help in early detection and management of joint problems, heart conditions, and other hereditary health concerns.
A balanced diet is also vital for your dog's overall health. Opt for protein-rich dog foods with a good mix of fats and carbs to keep your pup energized and happy.
Exercise and mental stimulation are also key to a happy and healthy Boxer and English Mastiff Mix. Regular walks, play sessions, and mentally challenging activities will keep your dog engaged and prevent boredom.
By being an active and informed owner, you can provide your Boxer and English Mastiff Mix with the best possible life. Joining a community of fellow owners can also be a great way to learn from others and advocate for the breed.
Challenges and Rewards
The Boxer and English Mastiff Mix is a unique breed that comes with its set of challenges, but the rewards of overcoming them are truly special.
These challenges include the need for regular exercise to prevent obesity, as the breed is prone to weight gain. Like every breed, the Boxer Mastiff Mix requires a balanced diet and plenty of physical activity to stay healthy.
The Boxer Mastiff Mix can be a large dog, reaching up to 230 pounds, so it's essential to have enough space in your home for it to move around comfortably. This breed's size can also make it difficult to manage in small living spaces.
However, the rewards of owning a Boxer and English Mastiff Mix far outweigh the challenges. With the right care and attention, this breed can form a deep and loving bond with its family.
The Boxer Mastiff Mix is a loyal and gentle companion, making it an excellent choice for families with children or for people who want a loving pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the temperament of a Boxmas dog?
The Boxmas dog is a friendly, loyal, and affectionate companion that thrives on early training and socialization. With proper care, it makes a wonderful pet for families with children.
Sources
- Reddit (reddit.com)
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- Lone Star Boxer Rescue (lonestarboxerrescue.com)
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mastiff (wikipedia.org)
- Dennis, Simon. “Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy in a Boxer Dog.” Companion Animal, vol. 13, no. 6, June 2008, pp. 34–41., doi:10.1111/j.2044-3862.2008.tb00299.x. (nih.gov)
- Boxer Mastiff Mix: A Guide to This Giant Blend (tryfi.com)
- Boxmas (Mastiff & Boxer Mix): Info, Pictures, Facts (hepper.com)
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