The Boxweiler is a strong, smart dog with an active and bold personality. A mix of two large dog breeds, this is a big dog that can reach up to 100 lbs. They might take up a lot of space, but they also give a lot to their families in terms of love and loyalty. Today we are going to take a look at the pros and cons of bringing home a Rottweiler Boxer mix puppy. And help you to decide whether a Boxweiler is the right dog for your family.
What is a Boxweiler?
The Boxweiler is a mixed breed dog with one Rottweiler parent and one Boxer dog parent. They are usually bred as pet dogs, but also have a rich working history on both sides of the family. Despite the popularity of the two parent breeds, the Boxweiler cross breed itself was not established until the 1980’s!
Rottweiler history
The Rottweiler’s origin is somewhat muddled, without clear records. It is thought to have descended from the Drover dogs of ancient Rome. It is likely that the Roman army brought the Rottweiler’s ancestors into Switzerland and Germany. Here they are thought to have mixed with local breeds such as the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Appenzeller.
Although evidence of this breed dates way back to the 1600’s, the first official breed standard was not produced until 1901. It was added to the American Kennel Club registry in 1931. The Rottweiler is a working dog, used throughout history for bear hunting, police work, cattle herding, and even to pull carriages for passengers.
Boxer origins
The Boxer breed originated in Germany in the 1600’s. It is descended from the Tibetan line of Mastiff (which in turn was a descendent of the Molossus). Their name is thought to have originated from the breed’s fighting style, which uses its paws in a way some view as similar to a human boxer.
The Boxer gained popularity in Europe throughout the 1800’s, and was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1904. Today, it’s ranked in the top 10 most popular dog breeds.
Boxer Rottweiler Mix Characteristics
The Boxweiler is a large dog with a strong, muscular build. A full grown Boxweiler will typically weigh between 60 and 80 pounds – although reaching up to 100 lbs is not unheard of. They are typically happy, healthy pups with an average lifespan of 8 to 13 years.
As for physical appearance, the breed can take on characteristics of either parent. So, it can end up looking like either parent breed. The one, mostly uniform characteristic is a large, square head.
The Rottweiler has a stocky, muscular body, while the Boxer has a lean, muscular build. A Boxweiler could take on either of these body types, or somewhere in between. Again, it’s important to remember that you won’t really be able to predict how a mixed breed dog will look. If you can meet the dog’s actual parents, that will help. But you still won’t know which characteristics will be dominant in your pup.
Boxweiler Coats, Colors and Care
The Boxer Rottweiler has a short, thick coat with a somewhat harsh texture. Their colorings vary, but are almost always a shade of brown. Mixed brown and black spots are also possible. And they will sometimes have a white splotch on their chest or belly.
Boxer Rottweiler Mix Grooming
Boxweilers are moderate shedders and should be brushed about 2-3 times per week. Although they are short haired, they can still shed quite a bit all year round. This breed requires moderate grooming in order to keep its rough coat in good shape.
Rottweiler Boxer Mix Temperament
The Boxweiler is an active, happy dog. Full of energy, these pups are highly intelligent and loyal. They are typically friendly, but can get quite protective and will keep a close eye on strangers. Boxweilers are working dogs, so they tend to enjoy having some sort of role to fill. Whether that’s protecting the family or working as a police dog, Rottweiler Boxer hybrids have a deep sense of duty, loyalty, and love to any given job.
Rottweiler Boxer mix dogs are loving and affectionate, and enjoy human interaction. They are moderately dependent – meaning that they can be left alone, but they are prone to separation anxiety if left on their own for long periods of time. Boxweilers are usually good with other dogs, although early socialization is key. They are very good with children, so long as they are socialized properly.
Boxweiler Energy Levels & Exercise
The Rottweiler Boxer mix is a byproduct of two highly energetic, working dog breeds, so it’s no surprise that these dogs have some serious energy! Boxweilers need to be walked at least twice per day. And ideally should have a fenced yard to run around in.
They enjoy playing with other dogs, so long as they are properly socialized and not aggressive. These massive dogs also tend to gain weight if they don’t get enough exercise. It’s important to monitor your dog’s weight and increase exercise and/or reduce food if you notice unhealthy weight gain.
Boxer and Rottweiler Health
The Boxweiler is overall a fairly healthy breed, but that’s not to say it’s not prone to some potential health problems. A Boxweiler puppy can take on any of the attributes – positive or negative – of either parent.
Boxers are more prone to heart conditions, cancers, hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, and degenerative myelopathy. Rottweilers are more prone to eye problems like cataracts, heart problems, gastroenteritis, hypothyroidism, and other conditions.
Since both breeds have a tendency for heart problems, this should be one of the primary concerns for new Boxweiler parents. Several heart conditions are possible, but the most serious is probably Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. A condition that can be fatal.
Weight gain is another common issue with this breed. Rottweiler Boxer mix dogs can put on weight quickly. If not exercised enough or if overfed, they can become overweight.
Canine obesity can also increase the risk of other health problems, particularly relating to the heart. Some other potential health issues. These include joint dysplasia, hip dysplasia, allergies, mange, pano, cancer, heart defects, bloat, eye problems, and deafness.
Are mixed breeds healthier?
There is an ongoing debate over the ethics of “designer dogs” such as the Rottweiler Boxer mix. Some claim that pedigree, purebred breeds are superior due to their consistency and predictability.
On the other side of the aisle, many breeders and fans of the crossbreed claim that there are significant benefits to designer dogs. There are some legitimate potential health issues with purebred dogs. These are often caused by years of inbreeding – which can sometimes be reduced through cross breeding.
Cross breeding advocates claim that there can be some benefits to genetic diversity in dog breeds. Often pointing to the “hybrid vigor” phenomenon as evidence. No matter which side you take, it’s good to remember that every dog was crossbred at some point in history, whether intentionally or not.
Ultimately, it all comes down to the breeding process, the knowledge of the breeder, and the genetics of the parents. Certain cross breeds are prone to specific behavioral and health issues, but the same could be said for certain purebred dogs. Thus, it’s very important to do your research before selecting a breed.
Boxweiler Puppies
If you’re looking at Rottweiler and Boxer mix puppies, it’s important to consider whether or not your home will be ideal for this breed. The biggest consideration is the energy level of these dogs. Boxweilers need regular exercise, at least twice per day. They also should have plenty of space to move around, so a small apartment is likely not suitable for this breed.
Beyond that, consider the fact that Boxweilers are prone to separation anxiety. If you work long hours and will need to leave your dog alone all day, this breed is probably not going to be the best choice. Overall, the Boxweiler is a friendly and social breed.
They are great with children, so long as they’re properly introduced and socialized. Boxweilers are protective without being overly aggressive. They can make very good guard dogs and will not hesitate to protect your family should the need arise. Prospective Boxweiler parents should weigh the pros and cons of the breed – including potential health problems – before making their decision.
How to Find Boxer Rottweiler Mix Puppies
If you are searching for boxer and Rottweiler puppies, it’s very important to seek out reputable Boxweiler breeders. An experienced breeder will know the proper techniques for breeding healthy, happy dogs. They will likely test the parents for potential health problems, which helps to reduce the risk of health concerns in the puppies.
When you locate a breeder, ask to see any health certificates or test results that they have for the parents. Ask to meet the parents so you can get a better idea of what your new puppy’s temperament might be like. If you can’t find a breeder in your area, you can look for a rescue dog from a local shelter. We wholeheartedly encourage adoption – but, it’s very important to be aware of the potential downsides.
The main issue with adopting a dog is that you just don’t know what it’s been through. It could have been treated poorly or abused, which could translate to aggression or unwanted behavior. With that said, every dog deserves a good home. If you are willing to adopt and accept the risks, we encourage it. If you’d prefer to get a puppy to train it from a young age, be sure to seek out a reputable breeder.
References and Further Reading
- Malm et al. Genetic variation and genetic trends in hip and elbow dysplasia in Swedish Rottweiler and Bernese Mountain Dog. Journal of Animal Breeding and Genetics. 2008
- Dobson, J. Breed-predispositions to cancer in pedigree dogs. ISRN Veterinary Science. 2013.
- Chetboul et al. Congenital Heart Diseases in the Boxer Dog: A Retrospective Study of 105 Cases (1998–2005)
- Meurs, K. Boxer dog cardiomyopathy: an update. Veterinary Clinics Small Animal Practice. 2004.
souvik ghosh says
My Boxweiler will be 13 in just 1.5 months and he only just started to get hip and eye problems. He has always been a gentle creature, but will bark at any stranger that walks by. He has a short one syllable bark when he needs me. He will be the dominant of any dogs you have including Shepards and labs. Though the Shepard-lab mix we had was smarter though the Boxweiler bark is much more tolerable. What you will love most will be his smile. It is adorable. Mine eats one can, one bowl of dry an egg and left overs. What you save in vet bills, he will make up in food. But no one dares to come in my property with him on duty. You will need metal leashes and leather spiked collars as he will bite his way through any other leash. Overall an awesome dog. Only negative would be kittens. He didn’t mind cats but would always kill food stealing kittens. Of course, keep all dogs away from strange children, however, mine never once harmed any. And was great with my small children. He is wonderful
Jeanna says
I had boxweiller-DJ and that best dog I ever had and he my service dog. Recent 7/6/2021 pass away . I want another of boxweiler and it hard to find puppies.
Cindy Furcean says
I did too, and he lived14 years. I was with him from the day he was born. Im also disabled, from a car accident. Bear and I used to be very active, but he also took very good care of me after I lost my ability to walk. He aalo had a sister. His mother had, 6 pups. She was a German Rottweiler, and the neighbors dog, across the street was a Boxer. Didn’t even know that my dog was a breed people actually breed, since this litter was not on purpose. 3 Pups came out with tails, and three had crop tails. My dog had a cropped tail. Normally both breeds have their tails cropped, and not have been both with a cropped tail. If you know where I can find this breed, I liked to know where too.
C G Thomas says
Trace was my first boxweiller. I found him at the local pound at approximately 9 months of age. He was covered with mites, had bare patches on his coat from the mites and was 25 lbs under weight. Within 2 weeks he was almost at the weight he should have been and the bare patches were filling. My 4 year old pure bred boxer Deuce took to him right away during the meet and greet and they shared our home as brothers. Deuce helped train Trace and he was a wonderful addition to our family. I lost Trace in April of this year and I miss him greatly. I still have my Deuce and he is still trucking along at 11 yoa. There is no choosing between the breeds for me because both took their jobs seriously which was to provide unconditional love, loyalty and Family. I will continue to have one or the other or both breeds in my family. Rest In Peace my Trace and God Bless my Deuce.
Patricia says
I had a beautiful Boxweiler named JEANA and she passed away May of this year and I still cry when I think of her cause I miss her so much. I always felt safe and protected with her around especially after my husband passed away. I want to try and fined another Jeana but I don’t remember where in MO we got her from. Where is a good safe place to go and get a Boxweiler.
Shirley Slater says
We’ve got a boxweiler or rotbox as we call him… His name is Hercules and he’s the sweetest dog you could even meet…. He protects our smallholding and ourselves plus he goes to our local nursing home as a therapy dog… So as far as we are concerned you can’t beat the breed…
Pam souders says
What area are the breeders in? I just lost mine he was great with kids and other animals and very loving and protective of the kids.
David says
To It May Concern
Would love to find a very reputable breeder of the BoxWeiler!
J. Dominguez says
I was lucky enough to have shared my life with a beautiful Boxer-Rottweiler. His name was Cabo Wabo. He was such a special … dog just doesn’t seem to be the right way to describe him! He was an impressively large, gorgeous fellow who didn’t tolerate one bit of nonsense. Cabo was around 10 weeks old when we brought him home, and he barely fit in my husbands work boot. Needless to say, he ended up topping off at 120lbs! He had no idea how large he was, not even when he would get in my lap, in my rocking chair to be rocked to sleep. The last 2 years or so of his life, he would sleep on my childrens crib mattress at the foot of our bed. Before, though, he was quite comfortable in our bed, on our pillows, in between us. lol My Pupper-do went on home just a few weeks ago, at the age of 12, of Lymphatic Cancer. He was my first dog, and he was the best first dog anyone could have asked for. Cabo never had to be taught to go outside, he just did. He always knew his place without us even raising our voice really. Ofcourse, I did come home from work one night to my ENTIRE sofa stripped down to the studs, but I mean, what can you do? Just laugh, and go for walkins!! He was ever so gentle to both my mother and sister when they had their surgeries and were here for recovery. So, for all the kindness, and love he gave to us over the years, we joyfully ,through breaking hearts, did the same for him. I would do it all again … No questions asked. I guess my point is that, no matter which dog chooses you, it’s up to you to give them the care and love they give to you so freely and unconditionly. Isn’t that the reason why you chose to bring any pet into your lives? Just a thought… I wish everyone the very best and Thanks for letting me share
Sherry L Shivley says
Why must you continue to breed dogs irresponsibly? If you want to raise pups do it correctly! Pick your breed, study health, longevity, disposition and breed standard. Go to shows and finish your dog proving it is breed standard while doing all recommended OFA health and DNA testing. Choose a mate that is equal or better when you have approved homes for all pups. The point of breeding and showing is to IMPROVE the breed. Not destroy it as you are!
Karen S. says
Thank you so much for submitting this!!
PDollar says
As breeder of top quality show Boxers since 1968 I find the compulsion of some to mix two perfectly fine breeds to be pointless. Like most designer breeds the motive seems to be more monetary than to improve on any particular breed characteristic. Designer dogs (sic) mutts are regularly represented as rare and sold at inflated prices by breeders who do no health testing to native buyers. Purebreds from reputable breeders have the benefit of years of pedigree research and genetic testing. Crossing g breeds and breeding dogs with dilute factors can lead to heartache for unsuspecting buyers who want as healthy puppy of good temperament. Caveat Emptor.
Sherry L Shivley says
Bravo Pat!
KL says
What a load of pretentious nonsense. Your “pure” breeds are the defining designer dogs. They’re human selected, not natural (sic) mutts. There’s nothing wrong with mixing two breeds of dog. It helps cover the genetic weaknesses of each (usually ones created by human breeders in the first place). Overcharging for a dog is one thing. But clinging to some sort of idea that dog breeds are cemented in stone or somehow superior to non pure bred dogs just makes my eyes roll.
JK says
I rescued my Boxweiler at 9 weeks old. He weighed 7.5 lbs. His name is Copperpot. He will be 12 years old this June and weighs 96lbs.We live on a big farm and he’s an inside/outside dog (comes in goes as he pleases for most part). We’ve not ran into any heart problems as I’ve had him on a preventative medication and diet for such most of his life. He is however starting to have arthritic issues with his hips and elbows . I feel blessed we haven’t had to deal with any other issues thus far (knocking on wood) as the preventative care is seemingly doing well. I’ve found this mix to be the absolute best for the ease of training and his intellect is off the charts!
joan says
Would any of you owners publish a picture of your dogs? Love to see them!
Jim winger says
My Bailey is 108 pounds 2 1/2years old he’s very happy and predictable he absolutely adores children and he can sense friend for foe he has a ton of energy he doesn’t gobble his food Bailey is a excellent grazer I would recommend a boxweiler to anyone we had Bailey in training school for 18 weeks totally hands on with him we don’t get many people selling stuff at the door anymore ? l can’t say enough about loyalty. Jim
Deb says
My Boxweiler will be 13 in just 1.5 months and he only just started to get hip and eye problems. He has always been a gentle creature, but will bark at any stranger that walks by. He has a short one syllable bark when he needs me. He will be the dominant of any dogs you have including Shepards and labs. Though the Shepard-lab mix we had was smarter though the Boxweiler bark is much more tolerable. What you will love most will be his smile. It is adorable. Mine eats one can, one bowl of dry an egg and left overs. What you save in vet bills, he will make up in food. But no one dares to come in my property with him on duty. You will need metal leashes and leather spiked collars as he will bite his way through any other leash. Overall an awesome dog. Only negative would be kittens. He didn’t mind cats but would always kill food stealing kittens. Of course, keep all dogs away from strange children, however, mine never once harmed any. And was great with my small children. He is wonderful
Nikki says
FYI. Rotties also get cancer. I have had five. One died of heart disease, two from cancer. I’m sure the boxer/ rottie mix is cute but they both suffer from the same health issues. I don’t think its a great mix for heath reasons. Don’t go looking for a broken heart.