Boxer: Size, Lifespan, Health and Care
Quick answer
PDSA, the UK veterinary charity, puts the Boxer at about 53-63 cm tall and 25-27 kg (females), 30-32 kg (males), living over 10 years. It suggests at least 2 hours a day, and lists 7 health problems to watch, including brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome and hip dysplasia. Minimum running cost: at least £80 a month, and over £13,000 over a lifetime.
From PDSA, the UK veterinary charity. Not veterinary advice. Worried about your own pet? See who to call.
On this page (7 sections)
Key facts
| Size | Large |
|---|---|
| Average height | 53-63 cm |
| Average weight | 25-27 kg (females), 30-32 kg (males) |
| Average lifespan | Over 10 years |
| Exercise | At least 2 hours a day, split into several walks, plus training and play |
| Grooming | A weekly brush; sheds year-round; keep facial skin folds clean and dry |
| Cost | At least £80 a month, and over £13,000 over a lifetime |
Source: PDSA, Boxer breed information.
Health problems to watch
PDSA lists these for the breed. A higher risk does not mean every animal will be affected; where a screening scheme or test exists, ask the breeder for the parents' results.
- brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) in shorter-faced Boxers
- hip dysplasia (BVA/KC hip scheme)
- epilepsy
- eye problems such as corneal ulcers
- heart disease such as cardiomyopathy and aortic stenosis
- skin problems including allergies and skin-fold dermatitis
- certain cancers
Source: PDSA, Boxer breed information.
Exercise and grooming
PDSA suggests at least 2 hours a day, split into several walks, plus training and play. Grooming: a weekly brush; sheds year-round; keep facial skin folds clean and dry. Source: PDSA, Boxer breed information.
Temperament
PDSA describes the breed as entertaining, loyal and eager to please, with a guarding instinct and a very high prey drive. PDSA says it would not recommend a Boxer for a first-time owner, and not for homes with young children or small pets. Source: PDSA, Boxer breed information.
Cost
PDSA's figure: at least £80 a month, and over £13,000 over a lifetime. These are minimums that leave out buying the animal and vet bills for illness or injury. More: annual cost of owning a dog and puppy first-year costs. Source: PDSA, Boxer breed information.
Questions people ask
How long do Boxers live?
PDSA gives an average lifespan of over 10 years.
How much exercise does a Boxer need?
PDSA suggests at least 2 hours a day, split into several walks, plus training and play.
What health problems do Boxers have?
PDSA lists brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) in shorter-faced Boxers; hip dysplasia (BVA/KC hip scheme); epilepsy; eye problems such as corneal ulcers; heart disease such as cardiomyopathy and aortic stenosis; skin problems including allergies and skin-fold dermatitis; certain cancers.
How much does a Boxer cost?
PDSA's estimate: at least £80 a month, and over £13,000 over a lifetime.
Sources
- PDSA, Boxer breed information, read 7 November 2026.
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All breed guides, everything for dog owners, human foods dogs can eat and pet emergency: what to do now.
