The most significant health problem in Boxers is heart disease. The 2 major heart problems are:

Sub-Aortic Stenosis in which the heart valve does not function properly.

Boxer Cardiomyopathy, a serious condition in which the heart muscle deteriorates by becoming weak and enlarged. 


Other important health problems, diseases and disorders in the Boxer breed are:

Cancer
Boxers are prone to tumors and cancers, however, many tumors are found to be benign. In Boxers, mast cell tumours are the most prevalent and these may become malignant. 

Hip dysplasia 
This is a disease influenced by heredity and environment and nutritional factors and most often plagues the larger breeds. Hip dysplasia is results in an arthritic condition of the hip joint initially caused by increased joint laxity, abnormal contours of the ball/socket of the joint, or both. The result over time, is excessive wear and tear within the joint. 

Degenerative myelopathy 
It is described as a debilitating neurological condition which can eventually paralyze affected dogs. The signs, such as progressive spinal weakness and paralysis, do not usually appear until later in life. A combination of genetic, environmental and toxic factors likely lead to the development of this disease.

Bloat (causes gastric torsion)
Bloat is a scary and life-threatening illness in which the stomach swells and once distended, may twist, thereby cutting off entry in and out of the stomach. This requires EMERGENCY treatment. If there is swelling of the stomach and your dog is trying to vomit but cannot, suspect bloat and place an emergency call to your vet immediately. In bloat/torsion, time is limited, and you absolutely cannot afford to wait.

NOTE: Important research shows that stress is a highly probable cause of bloat. Torsion is the result of bloat. To help prevent bloat, feed  a "meat based" diet (raw or kibble), as well as probiotics, digestive enzymes, and dietary enzymes.



IMPORTANT HEALTH WARNINGS!!!

ACEPROMAZINE
Do NOT use this drug on a Boxer. If your Boxer is having a surgical procedure done or needs to be tranquilized, PLEASE advise your vet not to use this drug. It causes degree heart block, a potentially serious heart arrythmia and a profound hypotension (severe lowering of blood pressure). Atravet is another name used for this drug.

FOODS TO AVOID FEEDING YOUR PET
Chocolate (dark chocolate is even more dangerous)
Coffee
Onions
Grapes and raisins

For more important information, please go to our "poisoning" page.