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The Boxer is a muscular, short-coated, square-headed dog with tight skin and a docked tail. Males stand 22.5-25 inches at the withers and weigh about 70 pounds. Females are a bit smaller at 21-23.5 inches and about 60 pounds.

Boxer ears are generally cropped in this country, but more and more pet owners opt for the uncropped, hang-ear look.

The Boxer nose is broad, and the top of the muzzle appears slightly pushed in, leaving the jaw a bit undershot � the lower jaw protrudes beyond the upper jaw and curves slightly upward. The blunt muzzle leaves him susceptible to hot, stuffy conditions and can cause wheezing and snorting.

The only acceptable body color in the standard is fawn, and the only acceptable pattern is brindle. White markings on muzzle, chest, belly, feet, neck, and inner legs are permitted to cover up to one-third of the body. The face must have a black mask, but a white blaze-line is permitted from the muzzle upward between the eyes.

The fawn can range from light tan to mahogany; the brindle must show clearly defined black stripes on a fawn background. White, mostly white, and black dogs are disqualified from the conformation ring but can be registered and can compete in obedience and agility.

The Boxer is an athletic dog with a smooth, graceful, ground-eating stride. He has a well-angulated rear with long haunches for great power. His back remains level when he moves for efficiency and endurance.

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