A family isn’t complete without a pet. For almost everyone in the world, the loyal and loving dog remains the top choice as a pet. But with so many breeds to choose from, what’s the best dog to get?
Among the top choices for families are the Boxer dog and the Labrador Retriever. Which of these adorable breeds is perfect for yours?
Here’s a comparison between two of America’s most favorite dog breeds: Boxer vs Labrador
Table of Contents
Boxer vs Labrador Group and Ranking
The Boxer dog is included in the Working Group. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), these dogs are intelligent, strong, and alert. They are quick to learn and are normally bred to assist men.
Those in the Working Group tends to be protective. Owners should be more patient when it comes to proper training and socialization.
Boxer dogs have the 11th spot at AKC popularity ranking.
Meanwhile, the Labrador Retriever is in the Sporting Group. Under this group are four basic types of Sporting dogs. They are retrievers, pointers, setters, and spaniels. As their name suggests, the Labrador belongs to the retriever group.
Dogs included in this group are naturally alert and active. They were bred to help hunters in hunting.
If you are thinking of getting one, you need to have an active lifestyle. Labradors and dogs in this group will need regular exercises.
Labrador Retrievers are first in the AKC popularity ranking making them America’s favorite breed.
Appearance
Both the Boxer and the Labrador Retriever are medium-sized breeds. But that’s pretty much where the similarity ends when it comes to appearance. Both dogs have distinct looks and you can easily tell which one is which.
Size and Weight
Based on AKC’s breed standard, a male Boxer should reach 23 to 25 inches. Females should be between 21.5 and 23.5 inches. The ideal weight is 65 to 80 pounds for male while females should be 15 pounds less.
On the other hand, a male Labrador should reach 22.5 to 24.5 inches. Female dogs should be 21.5 to 23.5 inches tall. Male dogs have the same ideal weight as Boxers. Female Labs should weigh around 55 to 70 pounds.
Overall Features
Boxers are infamous for their underbites. Their low jaw should protrude and is longer than the upper jaw.
They also have cropped ears and docked tails back then. But veterinarians and dog lovers protested against these actions. Although there are still some owners that do this, you can see uncropped and undocked dogs.
Boxer dogs are also muscular and athletic-looking. They have broad chests and long legs. Their coat is short and shiny and it should lie close and tightly to the body.
Meanwhile, Labrador Retrievers have the same athletic look. These dogs should have a strong built, short-coupled, and powerful jaws.
Their coats are well-known to be weather-resistant. They also have these “otter” tails that help them in the water. But their most prominent features are their expressive eyes that convey intelligence.
Temperament
Like people, all dogs are different. Each one has a different personality with some going beyond expectations.
But here are the common temperaments of both Boxer dogs and Labrador Retrievers.
Boxer Dogs
Boxer dogs have become popular among families because of their fun and loving personality. They’re patient with children and will play with them. They can even enjoy new people and even dogs.
These dogs are loyal and are protective of their family. There are those who say that Boxers are aggressive. But they only show it when their humans are in danger.
Boxers are fairly smart dogs and can be trained. But they can be a little tough to work with since they’re a little stubborn.
Positive reinforcement and a little more patience can help you train these guys. You also need to assert the position of alpha so they will listen to you.
Labrador Retrievers
Labrador Retrievers or Labs as many call them are friendly, kind, fun, and loving dogs. They’re basically everything you want in a family dog. They are good with children, strangers, and other dogs.
But when danger comes, there’s nothing these handsome fellas won’t do.
These dogs are very smart and trainable. Start training them as pups and give them an outlet for their energy. Plus, you might want to have little inflatable pools as these guys love the water.
Health
Both breeds have a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years.
Boxer Dog’s Health Issues
Here are the most common health issues Boxers deal with:
- Boxer Cardiomyopathy
- Aortic/Subaortic Stenosis
- Degenerative Myelopathy
- Bloat
- Skin problems
- Allergies
- Cancer
Labrador’s Health Issues
Listed below are health issues commonly associated with a Lab:
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Cataracts
- Heart Disease
- Osteochondrosis
- Panosteitis
- Epilepsy
- Allergic skin disease
Conclusion
Whether you choose a Boxer vs Labradors, you’re in luck. These breeds are well-loved because of their loyalty. They will surely love you for the rest of their lives.
