Health

Each breed of dog has its own associated health problems and the Boxer is no different! Some of the health issues facing Boxers are: 
 
The Use of Acepromazine 
 by Wendy Wallner, DVM
 
There is one drug commonly used in anesthetic protocols that should not be used in the Boxer. The drug is Acepromazine, a tranquilizer, which is often used as a preanesthetic agent. In the Boxer, it tends to cause a problem called first degree heart block, a potentially serious arrhythmia of the heart. It also causes a profound hypotension (severe lowering of the blood pressure) in many Boxers that receive the drug. Recently, on the Veterinary Information Network, a computer network for practicing veterinarians, an announcement was placed in the cardiology section entitled "Acepromazine and Boxers." This described several adverse reactions to the drug in a very short time span at a veterinary teaching hospital. All the adverse reactions were in Boxers. The reactions included collapse, respiratory arrest, and profound bradycardia (slow heart rate, less than 60 beats per minute). The announcement suggested that Acepromazine should not be used in dogs of the Boxer breed because of a breed related sensitivity to the drug. 
 
Boxer Cardiomyopathy 
 
Please refer to this comprehensive article by Wendy Wallner, DVM located on the ABC website.

Hypothyroidism 

Boxers rank fifth highest for autoimmune thyroid disease making it very worthy to note. The Nestle Purina Pet-Care Company has a very good article regarding hypothyroidism that we suggest you read. If you find that your adult Boxer is losing hair, gaining weight, itching...these can all be signs of hypothyroidism and your dog should be tested. Please read High Rate of Hypothyroidism in Boxers is Cause for Concern Among Breeders for an in depth explanation of the disease, its diagnosis and treatment. 
 
Bloat 
 
Bloat or Gastric Dilation-Volvulus, is a leading killer among deep-chested breeds like the Boxer. It is caused by an accumulation of air or fluids in the stomach which causes the stomach to swell. The stomach may or may not rotate, cutting off blood supply and effectively killing your dog if not treated. 
 
Some signs of bloat: restlessness, failed attempts to vomit, hunched posture, whining, pacing, rapid heartbeat and/or drooling. 
 
Some causes of bloat: poor eating habits (gulping, not chewing), exercise directly after a meal, stress and/or heredity. 
 
Ways to prevent bloat: feed smaller meals several times a day rather than one large meal, keep dog calm before and after eating, feed a high quality diet and do NOT use raised feeders. 

A note on raised feeders: many publications and advertisements taut these feeders as a preventative measure against bloat. This is FALSE! Studies have shown that using a raised feeder actually increases the risk of bloat! For more information read this article from the Purdue School of Veterinary Medicine. 
 
This listing of health issues is by no means all-inclusive, however, it does highlight the major concerns surrounding Boxers. If you think that your dog is ill, seek veterinary assistance immediately! For additional information on canine health: