Can Boxers Be Aggressive? 10 Triggers and How To Stop It (2024)

A Boxer dog fighting with a fluffy dog in the snow.

Boxers are adorable dogs that make great pets. They are known for being very loyal, and that can sometimes turn into aggression.

If you are worried that your Boxer may become aggressive or if there are already signs of aggression, there are some things you can do to correct the behavior and help make your Boxer a loving pet. 

Can Boxers be aggressive? Boxers can be aggressive, but if they are bought from a legitimate breeder and are raised, socialized, and trained properly, they are not likely to be aggressive. Past negative experiences, lack of exercise, and feeling threatened can manifest in aggression, though these issues are easily corrected.

If you are considering getting a Boxer and want to know if he or she could become aggressive, be sure to read on to learn more. 

10 Instances That May Result in Boxer Aggression

While most Boxers are not aggressive by nature, there are some instances that may result in them becoming aggressive.

1. Poor Breeding

Some dogs are bred from animals that are aggressive or have genes that make them more likely to be aggressive. There are also certain health problems that can make a Boxer more likely to become aggressive.

2. Lack of Socialization

Dogs that have not been properly socialized with people, children, or animals may become aggressive out of fear or if they are territorial.

3. Lack of Training

Some dogs need to be trained to keep their aggression at bay and to learn how to act in certain situations and with new people.

If a Boxer is not trained properly, he could become aggressive in new situations and around new people.

4. Not Enough Daily Exercise

Boxers need a lot of exercise, and if they don’t get it, they can become bored, anxious, and depressed, which can result in aggressive behavior. 

5. Territorial/Dominance Issues

Some dogs are territorial or may feel a need to show their dominance. They may guard their toys, bed, and even people. They can also have food-aggression issues.

This problem is known as resource guarding and is a natural reaction in some dogs or can be something they develop over time if they are not cared for properly.

6. Unneutered Male

Males are more likely to become aggressive than females, especially if they are unneutered. Boxers that show signs of aggression typically become less aggressive after they are neutered.

7. Past Trauma or Negative Experiences

Dogs that have been abused or have had past trauma and negative experiences may become aggressive in situations that remind them of these experiences.

8. Female-Female Aggression

Many Boxer females can become aggressive when other females are around. This is especially true if the female is in heat, has puppies, or is pregnant.

9. Overly Protective Nature

Boxers are guard dogs, and they tend to be overprotective by nature. This can something show up as aggression if they feel that their family or they themselves are being threatened.

10. High Prey Drive

Boxers have a high prey drive, and this can cause them to see smaller dogs, cats, and other animals as prey and act aggressively toward them. This can usually be resolved with proper training.

A handsome Boxer straining at his leash while focused on something while on a walk.

How To Stop Boxer Aggression

If your Boxer is showing signs of aggression, the sooner you intervene, the more likely you are to stop the behavior before it gets out of hand. Here are some tips that can help.

1. Create a Safe Place

Make sure your dog feels safe. Many dogs show aggression out of fear and confusion. Talk calmly to your dog when he starts to show signs of aggression to distract and calm him.

2. Use Positive Reinforcement

Don’t punish your dog for being aggressive. Instead, redirect him and offer positive reinforcement to help keep him calm and let him know his calm behavior is rewarded.

3. Get A Health Check

Sometimes dogs can act aggressively if they are in pain, don’t feel well, or have emotional or mental problems going on.

Make an appointment with your veterinarian to have a health problem ruled out or treated.

4. Socialize Them

Proper socialization is important for every dog breed and especially Boxers. Make sure your dog has plenty of socialization with other pets, animals, and people.

5. Professional Help

If you are not able to help control your dog’s aggression, you may want to seek professional help.

You can find trainers who specialize in dealing with aggressive behavior and can help you correct it.

As opposed to a costly lawsuit should your dog attack someone, hiring a professional will be money well spent.

Related Questions: 

Why Does My Boxer Stare at Me?

Your Boxer likely stares at you because he wants to anticipate what you will do next so he can go with you.

Boxers bond with their owners quickly, and your Boxer may want to be by your side at all times. If your Boxer is older, he may be staring at you due to vision problems or another disorder.

Are Boxers Good With Cats?

Boxers can be good with cats as long as they are introduced to them early in life and have plenty of time to socialize with them.

When you introduce your Boxer to a cat, always monitor them closely to make sure they get along.

Conclusion 

Boxers are great dogs and make great family pets. They can, however, be aggressive if they are not properly trained and socialized.

If you see signs of aggression in your Boxer, it’s important to intervene quickly to help prevent it from getting worse and more dangerous.

You can consult a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer if you need help correcting your dog’s aggression.