Boxers and Labrador Retrievers are dogs that look highly distinctive from each other physically and have complex personalities with certain aspects that are similar. While Boxers are a part of the working group, Labradors belong to the sporting group. Furthermore, there are many such differences that set them apart. So if you’re planning on bringing either one of these breeds home, keep reading to find out.
Weight and Size
A male Boxer will weigh anywhere between 27 to 32 kilograms while a female will weigh between 25 to 29 kilograms. Their height falls between a range of 53 to 60 cm.
A male Labrador will weigh anywhere between 29 to 36 kilograms while a female will weigh between 25 to 32 kilograms. Their height falls between a range of 55 to 62 cm.
Characteristics
One look at a Boxer and you’ll know it’s an athletic and agile dog. Boxers usually have a tight coat that makes their muscles look distinctive. They are available in two standard colors of fawn and brindle. You will find that boxers also have white markings called flash on their legs and underbelly that sometimes extend to their neck and other body parts. If Boxers are all white, it is generally indicative of various future health concerns. Interesting facts that you might want to know – Boxers drool and snore loudly, but it’s adorable!
You don’t need to be a dog lover to recognize Labradors! They are one of the most popular breeds around. Some physical characteristics you can use to distinguish them are their muscular built, “otter” tail and a firm jaw. They have soulful and kind eyes that reflect intelligence, courage and affection. Labradors come in three standard colors of brown/chocolate, black and yellow with varying shades. From these, black is the most common color, while brown/chocolate is quite rare as these dogs are kept for the show-bench.
Temperament
Wondering if there’s a dog that comes with everything? Boxers are your answer! They’re courageous, alert, and intelligent dogs that are also affectionate, cheerful, playful, and silly. Moreover, they are loyal, protective, and patient, which has made them a star among children. You might be surprised to know that Boxers are some of the cuddliest dogs you can find! They love cuddles and bonding with their family, acting as lap dogs whenever the occasion permits. If that wasn’t enough, because of their alert, curious, fearless personality, they also make great guard dogs and will protect your family against intruders no matter what!
Labradors are the most playful, kind dogs you can find. They’re loyal and get along well with children, other dogs and even strangers! For this very reason, they’re no good at being a watchdog, welcoming whoever they find to be a friend. At the same time, they make great companions, giving you love and affection every waking hour and more! Because of their intelligent and friendly nature, Labradors are trained to be therapy dogs for those in hospitals and assistance dogs for individuals with disabilities.
Grooming
A Boxer is extremely low maintenance owing to its short coat that hardly sheds, which also doesn’t make professional grooming necessary. To add to that, Boxers are clean dogs so bathing can also be done only when needed. You can brush a boxer’s coat once a week with a rubber curry-brush to make him look neat. It is essential that you brush its teeth daily to avoid tartar buildup. Also, keep a lookout for long nails that need to be trimmed.
Unlike Boxers, Labradors have an undercoat that sheds at least once a year. During these periods, daily brushing becomes crucial to prevent hair from landing all over your furniture and floors. During other periods, their coat can be quickly groomed once a week and baths given occasionally. Don’t forget that their nails have to be kept short, and their teeth brushed frequently.
Monthly Maintenance
The monthly expenses of a Boxer will fall between Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000 a month depending on the quality of the feed and whether or not you take it to professional groomers. Early vaccination costs can be in the range of INR 5000 when your Boxer is a little pupper.
The monthly expenses of a Labrador will fall between Rs 3,000 to Rs 6,000 a month, depending on the quality of the feed and whether or not you take it to professional groomers. Vaccinations and regular checkups amount to an average of Rs 6,000 in the first month and reduce to Rs 2,000 after.
Diet And Nutrition
Like every high-energy athletic dog, Boxers require foods rich in protein which can be the primary ingredient. Pups between 8 to 12 weeks of age can be free-fed after which 3 meals per day is enough till the Boxer is 24 months old. After 24 months, 1 to 2 meals a day is advisable. It is essential to keep them away from food that’s rich in allergens like soy and wheat. At the same time, dry kibble mixed with some low-sodium chicken broth is the best meal for an adult Boxer, as it helps maintain their jaw and gums. Boxers are also prone to bloating, as they usually gulp their food down. To avoid this, you can use a slow eating bowl or provide multiple small meals during the day once you consult your veterinarian.
Labradors love eating! They are never satisfied and will follow you around if they notice you with anything that can be eaten. This means that they become obese faster, as it’s difficult to say no to their adorable and friendly face! Thus their meals have to be measured, along with treats and other human food given sparingly. Dry kibble and bones and raw meat (BARF) are foods that Labradors thrive on. However, consult your veterinarian before deciding on a meal plan as every dog has different needs. Labradors under 3 months of age can be fed 4 times a day. Between ages 3 to 6 months, feed them 3 times a day and cap this at 2 times a day after the 6-month mark.
Exercise
As expected, Boxers require high amounts of exercise and their tendency to jump and leap around can do more harm than good. They are both active and powerful and require a minimum of 2 hours of exercise a day. This should be balanced between games like sniffing and exploring and other exercises like running. Additionally, it’s always best to have them on a leash or within a fenced area while exercising.
Labradors have to be indulged in physical activity because of their active personalities. If not, you can be sure that they will engage in destructive behavior or hyperactive activities. They also tend to bark excessively if they have pent up energy inside. Consequently, daily exercise in the form of runs, hikes, and swimming can help release their energy and give them the stimulation they need.
Training
Boxers are easy to train owing to their intelligent minds and people-pleasing personality. If that wasn’t enough, they are great at problem-solving, which comes with a complex problem – boredom. If the training and activities are repetitive, a Boxer will not be stimulated enough to participate. However, including interesting dog sports can keep them interested and eager to learn. It is important to note that early socialization and training is crucial, as Boxers are people-oriented and this can help prevent behavioral problems in the later years. Another thing to know is to avoid using harsh methods to train them. You don’t want them to sulk or behave in a counterproductive manner, do you?
Like Boxers, Labradors are easy to train. They love engaging in any kind of activity and are usually cooperative. However, every Labrador might not enjoy the thought exercise and act laid-back. Consequently, they do benefit from activity, so don’t stop training them! Since they are kind and adorable dogs, you might want to keep away from using harsh reprimands and instead engage in positive reinforcement which works best. We would definitely recommend early obedience training and socialization, if only to help them take control of their outgoing and energetic personalities.
Conclusion
You will be glad to have any of these dogs because they’re both great companions and both loyal and affectionate. They will walk alongside you for all your life! We suggest you see which of the two ticks all your boxes, while keeping in mind their needs and your ability to provide.
To know more about these two breeds, read these detailed articles on Boxer Dogs and Labradors.
