Boxer Information Center
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How a Boxer Dog Ages
Overview

While it has long been a well known saying that a dog ages 7 years per each human year, this is not correct.  This has become well known because it is a simple method of estimating a dog's equivalent age. 

Small breed dogs, such as the Poodle, Shih Tzu, Maltese and others will age much different than large breed dogs such as the Boxer, German Shepard, Great Dane and others.

So the question is, how does a Boxer dog age?   We will also discuss the milestones of a Boxer's life and appropriate care for each important phase of a Boxer's life.
                 
Calculating the Age of Your Boxer Dog

When a Boxer is born until the age of 5, their age equivalent is formulated one way.  After the age of 5, it is the weight of the dog that determines the ages process.  Therefore small breed dogs will age differently than a Boxer.

From birth until 1 year, your Boxer is simply considered a puppy and there is no scientific method of comparing this to a human. Growth is rapidly fast compared to a person and the 1st year of a Boxer's life is one of quick development and growth that could never be compared to a human being.

From 1 year to 4 years old, a dog's age equivalence will vary; however the dog will be the comparison of a human  teenager to a young adult.

Once the Boxer becomes 5 years old, the age equivalence can be charted with a more even and steady pace:


 Your Boxer's age
 Human Year Equivalent
 Your Boxer's age
Human Year Equivalent
Your Boxer's age
 Human Year Equivalent
 Your Boxer's age
Human Year Equivalent
  Your Boxer's age  Human Year Equivalent
 5 =
 40  6=  45  7=  50  8=  55  9=  61
 10=  66  11=  72  12=  77  13=  82  14=  88

Milestones

7-8 Weeks Old.  This will be the age when a Boxer is weaned from his mother.   This is the first step that a puppy takes to gain independence; however the dog is very vulnerable and needs the loving care of their new mother: their owner! Proper weaning is vital.

3 Months Old.  This is the minimum age a dog must be in order to enter a dog show event.  Many clubs, such as the AKC require a dog to be 6 months old; however if you truly want to show your Boxer, you may do so at 3 months with many other dog clubs.

1 Year Old.  By 1 year, a Boxer if trained properly, is fully housebroken.  The dog has learned the basic workings of the world.  He has been trained to know where his belongings are, who you considered to be friend or foe and is very used to his daily schedule.

2 Years Old.  This is a huge milestone.  At 2 years old, a Boxer is considered to be an adult.  The dog will be at their adult weight and height.

5 Years Old.  The Boxer will now begin to age at a more steady rate.  Still active, yet fully trained, this is a wonderful age.

7 Years Old.   A 7 year old Boxer will be considered a senior dog in the eyes of their veterinarian. Even if your dog behaves as young as a puppy,  you should adjust their diet to one catered to older dogs.   Vet checkups become more frequent, usually twice per year.

14 Years Old.  The average life span of a Boxer is 14 years old.  At this age, a senior dog most likely has lived through some health issues.  A dog of this age also will have arthritis.  Movement may become difficult, it is suggested to have steps and ramps for the dog if he or she is used to climbing up onto your bed or the couch.  Their dog bed should be evaluated for comfort.  Any time after this age that your dog is still with you is a blessing.  Some Boxers live to 18 years or more; however you should prepare yourself that your dog is elderly.



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