Histiocytic Ulcerative Colitis (HUC) – A Disease of the Colon
This particular canine disease hits the Boxer breed more than any other dog breed in the world.  It causes ulcers in the lining of the dog’s large intestine.  This, in turn, causes the dog to have diarrhea and/or blood in the bowel movements.
More about HUC

Intervertebral Disk Disease – A Canine Back Problem
Intervertebral disk (IVD) disease in canines can be quite serious. It may cause loss of motor function, loss of coordination and in sadly, in some case, paralysis. Common among certain breeds, a dog of any breed may develop this.
More about IVD

Pyloric Stenosis – A Stomach Disease
This is a stomach condition that is seen in certain dogs without a solid explanation as to why.  The Boxer and the Boston Terrier are both prone to this. (Both dog breeds do have similar bone structure of their heads) and also among some small breed dogs.  This health issue happens when the muscles around the stomach’s exit become very thick.  With vomiting and bloating occurring, it is important to have this treated.
More about Pyloric Stenosis

Red Mange / Demodectic Mange – Skin Disease
A mite, called the Demodex lives on the skin of all dogs.  When puppies are born, these are passed on to them from mother to pups. For healthy Boxer dogs, this does not cause any concern and the dog will not have any health issues.  However, when a Boxer’s immune system is a bit down, this can cause severe health problems.  The Mange can then appear as patches on the dog’s skin.  90% of the time, the dog’s body will fight this off on its own.  In 10% of the cases, this will develop into something much more serious.
More about Demodectic Mange

Seizures

A dog can get seizures, just like a human.  There are different types such as the Tonic-clonic, Petit Mal or Status Epilepticus.  If your Boxer dog is showing strange symptoms such as repeated behavior (as if a movie is looping over and over again), drooling, staring into space, confusion, falling down, stiff limbs or unconsciousness..learn about the different types of canine seizures, the symptoms of each and what to do if this happens.

See Boxer Dog Seizures

Thyroid Problems – Hypothyroidism
Problems with a Boxer dog’s thyroid gland can cause an alarming array of canine health issues.  When a dog’s thyroid malfunctions, it can cause problems that range from epilepsy to skin conditions. The Boxer breed is prone to having this issue and without treatment this can greatly affect the dog’s quality of life.
More about Hypothyroidism in Boxer Dogs

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Keeping Your Boxer Healthy

To keep your Boxer healthy and allow your dog to live as long as possible:

• Follow proper feeding guidelines.  Never allow your dog to eat your food.  Do not overfeed.
• Give your Boxer plenty of exercise: walking, running and playing. Do not exercise him or her right after they have eaten.
• Be sure to keep up with grooming.  Dental disease can kill.  Daily brushing must be done, as well as professional cleanings. Infections in the ears and on the face can be prevented with cleanings.
• Offer your dog a safe, clean and calm environment.  Stress can cause disease in dogs.  Your Boxer should have a great family environment, plenty of interaction with humans and a warm and dry place to rest and sleep.  Never allow your dog to overheat by being left outside in hot weather.
• Make sure your Boxer is always up-to-date with vaccinations and preventative Heart worm medication.
• Bring your Boxer for regular checkups to catch any problems early.  Whenever your dog behaves outside of their regular pattern, such as not wanting to be touched,  sleeping or resting excessively, not eating as usual, etc; bring him or her to the veterinarian.