The Boxer dog was first displayed at Munich, Germany in 1895, as the result of crossbreeding between the English Bulldog and the German Bulldog. The German Bulldogs (called "Bullenbeissers," meaning "bull-biters;") trace their lineage back to 370 A.D. "Bullenbeissers" had loose skin around the head and mouth, and were mostly used for herding and guarding. The "Bullenbeissers" were cross-bred into extinction, partially in the effort to reduce the prominence of their white color.
The Boxer is a stocky, medium-sized, short hair dog, with a tight coat. Boxers have a strong, powerful, square jaw. Most Boxer dogs are fawn-colored (light, yellowish-brown to mahogany) or brindle-colored (black stripes on fawn). "Flashy" dogs have white markings covering one-third of their body.
The White Boxer has been the target of many rumors and myths. Science has attempted to resolve many of these misconceptions; but falsehoods have been intermixed with the truth, since both sides have elements of the truth supporting their contentions. The end result has led to the hardening of opinions.
First of all, the White Boxer is not truly considered an albino. An "albino" is defined by having no pigmentation anywhere. The White Boxer has "reduced" levels of pigment (melanin.) Colloquially, some extremely "white" dogs might be called "albino." Yet, scientifically-speaking, the "albino" dog would have "pink" eyes, while the "white" dog would have "colored" eyes. Another difference is that the White Boxer is the offspring of two White Boxer parents with "recessive" genes; while the trait of the "albino" is a mutation.
Secondly, the White Boxer is considered to be more susceptible to health problems. The lower levels of melanin in White Boxers has led to increased levels of certain associated maladies. The White Boxer is more likely to be sunburnt and develop skin cancer due to decreased melanin protection. There are also increased levels of deafness (estimated at around 18%) and blindness, due to decreased levels of the necessary sensory cells. White Boxers are also considered to be more aggressive, especially with other dogs. Albinos have higher rates of vision, liver, skin and kidney problems.
Thirdly, the White Boxer is not truly rare. About 25% of all Boxers are born white.
Fourthly, White Boxers have a wonderful reputation with children and as tough, hard-working dogs. White Boxers enjoy human relationships and are extremely playful. The White Boxer has a "snoring" habit. Supposedly, the dog's tendency to jump and paw the air - as a "boxer" would - has lent it its name. The dog is a good, herd dog. It needs plenty of exercise to keep in shape. The military and law enforcement use Boxers extensively. Its many wonderful character traits have made the Boxer the sixth most popular breed in the United States.
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