Is Your Boxer at Risk? 9 Genetic Health Issues You Must Know About

According to data by the American Kennel Club, for the last 20+ years, the friendly, affectionate Boxer has been consistently among the top 20 most popular breeds in the United States—and for good reason. The breed is known for being exceptionally loyal and fond of children, making it a great pet for growing families. Due to their intelligence and strong bond with humans, they also excel as service dogs. Plus, their upbeat, goofy nature is simply irresistible.

While their winning temperament and spirited nature make them a popular choice for dog owners, Boxers are prone to several genetic and lifestyle-related health issues. Many of these conditions, such as heart disease, hip dysplasia, and certain cancers, can lead to costly veterinary care. Treating Boxer cardiomyopathy alone can cost thousands of dollars over a lifetime. Familiarizing yourself with these potential health concerns can help with preventative care, and investing in pet insurance early can ensure you’re financially prepared for unexpected medical expenses, giving your Boxer access to the best care without breaking the bank.

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9 Genetic Boxer Health Issues

“Boxer dogs are bouncy, loveable pets with great personalities,” says Dr. Rebecca MacMillan, BVetMed BSAVA PGCertSAM MRCVS. “When deciding whether to get a Boxer, it’s important to know what health conditions they are prone to so that you can be prepared.” We’ve included insight from MacMillan regarding some of the most common Boxer health issues she’s seen at her clinic.

1. Aortic Stenosis

Boxers can be born with aortic stenosis or a narrow aortic valve that forces the heart to work harder than usual when pumping blood. Any breed can be affected, but this inherited disorder is especially prevalent among Boxers.

Vets often detect aortic stenosis during routine exams by identifying a heart murmur. In severe cases, it may be diagnosed at birth, but mild cases typically become noticeable when a Boxer is 6-12 months old. Since pet insurance doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions, enrolling your Boxer as early as 6-8 weeks old ensures that the waiting period for illnesses has passed well before a potential diagnosis.

Symptoms

If the condition becomes severe, your pup may experience:

• Coughing
• Difficulty breathing
• Exercise intolerance
• Lethargy
• Collapse
• Sudden death

Treatment

Mild cases of aortic stenosis don’t require treatment; however, those with moderate-to-severe cases will require lifestyle modification and medication to control symptoms. While there’s no cure, treatments like beta-blockers and restricted activity can improve quality of life. Since this condition often requires lifelong veterinary monitoring, pet insurance can help cover ongoing cardiology visits, medications, and diagnostic tests.

Veterinary Costs For Aortic Stenosis

The cost of diagnosing and managing aortic stenosis can add up quickly, especially for dogs requiring lifelong treatment. Below are some of the potential expenses associated with this condition:

• Chest Radiographs (X-rays): $75-$250
  • Used to detect enlargement of the left side of the heart and a visible bulge of the aorta.
• Electrocardiography (ECG): $250-$350
  • Identifies abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) and signs of left ventricular enlargement.
• Echocardiogram (Heart Ultrasound): $500-$600
  • The gold standard for diagnosing aortic stenosis by evaluating heart structure and function. A fibrous band of tissue can often be seen at the aortic valve.
• Complete Blood Count & Serum Biochemistry: $100-$200
  • Assesses overall health and organ function before starting medication.
• Urinalysis: $80-$150
  • Helps rule out underlying conditions that could impact treatment.
• Beta Blockers (Atenolol, Propranolol): $20 for 90 pills
  • Prescribed to reduce heart strain and manage symptoms.
• Hospitalization: $2,000-$3,500 for 3-5 days
  • Required for dogs experiencing severe symptoms, collapse, or heart failure.
• Surgery (Balloon Valvuloplasty): $1,000+
  • A procedure to widen the narrowed aortic valve, though success rates vary.
• Specialist Appointments (Cardiologist Visits): $400-$600
  • Regular checkups to monitor disease progression and adjust treatment.

2. Canine Bloat

Canine bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), occurs when gas gets trapped inside an animal’s stomach, causing painful swelling. In 75% of these cases, the stomach twists (volvulus), obstructing blood flow and breathing. This life-threatening emergency occurs primarily in deep-chested, large breeds with a 3.9% to 36.7% lifetime risk. Even with surgical intervention, this painful condition has a 20% mortality rate.

There is no single cause for GDV; current research suggests this condition results from genetic and environmental factors. According to Embrace Pet Insurance, the high cost of treating bloat leads many owners to opt for euthanasia. In one study, 10% of affected dogs were euthanized due to financial constraints or poor prognoses.

With canine bloat, time is critical. The faster you recognize the signs and get your dog to a vet, the greater their chance of survival. Delaying treatment can significantly reduce the odds of a successful outcome, making immediate emergency care essential.

Risk Factors

• Advanced age
• Anxiety or stress
• Being overweight
• Drinking too much water too quickly
• Eating too quickly or overeating
• Family history of bloat

Symptoms

• Abdominal distention (stomach swelling)
• Lethargy
• Restlessness, pacing, an inability to get comfortable
• Non-productive retching (dry heaving)

Treatment

Bloated dogs without volvulus may be treated without surgery. Your vet will first attempt to release the gas using a tube and stomach pump. Emergency surgery is required to treat GDV. The surgery untwists the stomach, accesses damaged organs, and removes damaged and dead tissue.

Prevention

For dogs predisposed to developing GDV, consider the following preventative tips:

• Consider a snuffle mat or slow feeder to slow down eating
• Create a relaxed, stress-free environment for your dog
• Ensure your dog maintains a healthy weight
• Serve bite-sized portions throughout the day rather than a single large meal
• Restrict water at mealtime to prevent stomach expansion
• Talk to your vet about prophylactic gastropexy, a preventative surgery that can be performed at the same time as spay or neutering

Veterinary Costs For Canine Bloat

GDV treatment is one of the most expensive emergencies in veterinary medicine due to the urgent need for surgery and hospitalization. Below are estimated costs associated with diagnosis and treatment:

• Emergency Exam & Stabilization: $200-$500
  • IV fluids, oxygen therapy, and pain management to stabilize the dog.
• Abdominal X-Rays: $150-$350
  • Confirms stomach dilation and volvulus.
• Emergency GDV Surgery (Gastropexy): $3,000-$7,500
  • Required to untwist the stomach, remove necrotic tissue, and tack the stomach in place to prevent recurrence.
• Post-Surgical Hospitalization: $1,500-$3,500
  • Includes monitoring, IV fluids, antibiotics, and pain management.

3. Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome

Imagine suffocating every time you try to sleep. You’re exhausted, but the moment your head droops, you jerk awake in terror, gasping for air. Your airway is collapsing, your lungs are screaming, and no matter how hard you try, you just can’t get enough oxygen.

For many brachycephalic dogs (Boxers, Boston Terriers, Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus, and more) this is their reality.

Brachycephaly is a condition where a dog’s skull is too short for its own anatomy, creating the “smooshed” face that many people find cute. But beneath that appearance lies a devastating structural defect.

Brachycephalic airway syndrome (BOAS) is a severe, inherited disorder that makes breathing a constant struggle. Also known as congenital obstructive upper airway disease, BOAS forces affected dogs to fight for every breath.

• Their nostrils are pinched shut, making it impossible to get enough air.
• Their throats are too narrow, restricting oxygen flow.
• Their soft palates block their windpipes, like a suffocating curtain of flesh.

Some dogs collapse from exhaustion after a short walk. Some choke in their sleep, waking up in a panic, wide-eyed with fear. Others aren’t as lucky; they stop breathing altogether.

Symptoms

Those dogs with mild cases of BOAS may display noisy breathing, especially when exercising. They may snore when sleeping or snort when overexcited. Dogs severely affected may tire quickly or even faint after exercise. Other symptoms include:

• Coughing
• Gassing
• Poor tolerance to heat
• Retching
• Trouble sleeping
• Vomiting

Treatment

Dogs with BOAS require surgery to remove excessive tissue that restricts airflow. Typically, this involves widening the nostrils, shortening the soft palate, or removing excess tissue around the larynx.

Prevention

According to the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Alliance (HSVMA), obese dogs are twice as likely to show symptoms of BOAS compared to dogs of a standard body composition. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help your dog maintain a healthy weight. When exercising your dog, use a harness instead of a collar that tugs at the neck area and impedes breathing.

You can also consider corrective surgery during spay or neutering to prevent future breathing issues.

Because this is a hereditary condition, dogs with BOAS should not be used in breeding.

Veterinary Costs for BOAS

BOAS-related treatments can be expensive, especially if surgical correction is needed. Below are estimated costs associated with managing the condition:

• Veterinary Consultation & Diagnosis: $100-$300
  • Includes airway examination and possible imaging to assess severity.
• BOAS Corrective Surgery: $500-$3,000
  • Includes nostril widening, soft palate resection, and laryngeal tissue removal (cost varies based on severity and location).
• Post-Surgical Hospitalization & Monitoring: $500-$1,500
  • Dogs may require overnight hospitalization and oxygen therapy after surgery.
• Ongoing Medications & Therapy: $50-$200 per month
  • Some dogs require anti-inflammatory medications, oxygen therapy, or long-term management for mild to moderate cases.

4. Cardiomyopathy

Boxers are genetically predisposed to cardiomyopathy, a hereditary disease of the heart muscle that causes the heart muscles to become enlarged, thick, or rigid and thus unable to pump blood.

“Boxer dogs can develop a variety of heart problems, but the most common is Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (a disease of the heart muscle),” says Dr. MacMillan. There are two primary types found in this breed:

• Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC): Commonly known as Boxer Cardiomyopathy, ARVC occurs when fatty or fibrofatty tissue replaces normal cardiac tissue, leading to irregular heartbeats. This can cause episodes of fainting (syncope) and, in severe cases, sudden cardiac arrest. ARVC is the most common form of cardiomyopathy in Boxers.
• Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM): This condition is characterized by enlarged heart chambers with weakened contractions, leading to fatigue, shortness of breath, weak heartbeat, and even death. In later stages, fluid buildup (congestive heart failure) can occur.

Symptoms

• Coughing
• Irregular heartbeat
• Rapid breathing
• Reduced ability to exercise
• Syncope (fainting)
• Swollen belly
• Sudden death

Treatment

Your vet may use a combination of drugs to stabilize and support heart function. Diet therapy and nutritional supplementation, such as carnitine and taurine amino acids, may also be recommended. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee that these treatment options will succeed. Some dogs may live for years, but there is always a risk of sudden death.

Prevention

“ARVC can also lead to congestive heart failure and sudden death in some dogs,” says Dr. MacMillan. “This is another hereditary condition, so dogs screened as positive genetically for the condition should not be bred from, as it can be passed down the family line.”

While Boxers have a genetic predisposition to cardiomyopathy, studies suggest that lifestyle factors like diet can ward off hereditary diseases through a process called gene regulation. Essentially, “good genes” are “turned on” in a healthy environment, while “bad genes” can be switched off.

Sticking to a high-quality diet high in animal protein (a source of the amino acid taurine) may reduce your Boxer’s risk of developing symptoms of cardiomyopathy. In contrast, a diet high in legumes (e.g., beans, lentils, and peas) may contribute to cardiomyopathy in dogs. In 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began investigating reports of non-hereditary DCM in dogs eating grain-free dog food—specifically those high in legumes. While the FDA is yet to verify these claims, you may wish to avoid plant-based proteins like legumes as a preventative measure.

Veterinary Costs For Cardiomyopathy

Managing cardiomyopathy often requires lifelong treatment and monitoring, leading to significant veterinary expenses. Estimated costs include:

• Veterinary Consultation & Diagnostics: $1,000-$1,500
  • Can include ECG, chest X-rays, and bloodwork to assess heart function.
• Echocardiogram (Heart Ultrasound): $500-$600
  • Confirms the severity of the disease and helps guide treatment.
• Medications (Beta Blockers, ACE Inhibitors, Diuretics): $50-$150 per month
  • Helps regulate heart rate, reduces fluid buildup, and supports circulation.
• Holter Monitor (24-Hour ECG): $250–$500
  • Records continuous heart activity to detect irregular rhythms.
• Emergency Hospitalization for Heart Failure: $1,500–$3,000
  • For dogs experiencing severe distress, fainting, or fluid buildup.

5. Cancer

Boxers are prone to several types of cancer, including mast cell tumors, lymphoma, skin hemangiosarcoma, and brain tumors. Due to their higher risk, early detection and proactive care are crucial for improving outcomes.

Symptoms

Early detection is critical for any cancer. Common warning signs of cancer include:

• Chronic, non-healing wounds
• Decreased appetite
• Difficulty urinating or defecating
• Lymph node enlargement
• Lethargy
• Persistent cough
• Skin lesions
• Unpleasant odor from mouth
• Weight loss

Treatment

“Some types of cancer are amenable to treatment, with various surgical and medical options available now,” says Dr. MacMillan. “But you must seek help for your dog early on to increase their chances of survival.”

Standard cancer treatments include chemotherapy, radiation therapy (radiotherapy), and surgery. Your veterinarian will help you choose your pup’s best course of action.

Prevention

A healthy diet, regular exercise, and regular medical care are all a part of cancer prevention. You may also wish to add supplements to your pet’s diet for cancer prevention. These include:

• Vitamin E: This fat-soluble vitamin acts as a potent antioxidant, helping remove cell-damaging free radicals from the body
• Quercetin: This flavonoid has antitumor and immunomodulatory properties, and research shows that it is especially helpful in preventing and even treating lymphoma.
• Turmeric: Studies show that the compound curcumin in turmeric may kill cancer cells and slow tumor growth

Our Personal Experience With A Boxer With Cancer

Our Boxer, Larkin, started having seizures at nearly 7 years old. An MRI revealed a large mass in his brain, suspected to be a glioma. Due to the tumor’s location and size, our focus shifted to maintaining his quality of life with anti-inflammatory and antiepileptic treatments. Sadly, we lost Larkin just weeks after his first seizure. This was our second young Boxer lost to health issues, the first being a 3-year-old with Cardiomyopathy. Boxers are incredibly smart and loyal family dogs, but it’s important to be aware of their predisposition to certain health problems.

–Jeff Butler, Dog Parent, Canine Journal Team Member

Veterinary Costs For Cancer Treatment

The average treatment plan (surgery, chemo, and radiation) ranges between $6,000-10,000. Cancer treatment costs can vary widely depending on the type, stage, and required interventions. Estimated expenses include:

• Initial Consultation & Diagnostic Testing: $150-$1,000
  • Includes bloodwork, X-rays, ultrasound, and/or biopsy.
• MRI or CT Scan (for brain tumors): $2,00-$3,000
  • Required for accurate diagnosis of internal tumors.
• Surgery: $500-$5,000
  • Costs vary based on tumor size and complexity.
• Chemotherapy: $150-$600 per session (averages more than $5,000 in total)
  • Multiple sessions are often required.
• Radiation Therapy: $1,000-$6,000
  • Used for tumors that can’t be surgically removed.
• Palliative & End-of-Life Care: $50-$300 per month
  • Medications and supportive treatments to maintain comfort.

6. Degenerative Myelopathy

Degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a progressive inherited neurodegenerative disease that leads to gradual paralysis of the pelvic (hind) limbs, typically affecting Boxers around eight years of age or older. As the disease advances, it can cause respiratory failure and eventual death.

According to VCA Animal Hospitals, DM is comparable to human amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig’s Disease. A mutation of the SOD1 gene causes the condition (SOD1A variant). Dogs with two copies of this variant are at a higher risk of developing DM.

Because DM has no cure, affected dogs are often euthanized within six to twelve months of disease onset due to complete loss of mobility or respiratory function.

Symptoms

• Difficulty rising
• Hind limb weakness
• Incoordination
• Muscle loss
• Scuffed toenails and hair loss on hind limbs

Treatment

While there is no treatment for DM, the following management tactics are recommended by Cornell University Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center:

• Add pet ramps to your environment
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Physical therapy
• Use cushions, rugs, or yoga mats on hardwood or tiled surfaces
• Use a sling or harness for walking and standing, or consider a wheelchair
• Wear booties to decrease paw damage

Prevention

The only way to prevent DM is to breed dogs selectively. Before purchasing a Boxer, ask your breeder for the SOD1 gene mutation testing results on the parent dogs, proving they carry two copies of the normal gene.

Veterinary Costs For Degenerative Myelopathy

Although DM itself isn’t painful, affected dogs require mobility support, which can become expensive over time. Estimated costs include:

• Veterinary Consultation & Diagnosis: $200-$500
  • Confirms if a dog is at risk for developing DM.
• Physical Therapy & Hydrotherapy: $50-$100 per session
  • Helps maintain mobility and prolongs the quality of life.
• Mobility Aids (Wheelchairs, Slings, Booties): $100-$600
  • Essential for dogs who lose hind limb function.
• End-of-Life Care & Euthanasia: $100-$400
  • Many dogs are euthanized within a year of diagnosis due to mobility loss.

7. Elbow & Hip Dysplasia

Hip and elbow dysplasia are developmental joint disorders where the joints form abnormally, causing looseness and misalignment. This causes the joint to knock and grind with movement. Over time, this irregular movement leads to joint deterioration (osteoarthritis), making walking, running, and even simple movements painful.

While genetics play a major role, diet, growth rate, exercise, environment, hormones, and muscle mass can also influence the severity of this condition.

Symptoms

Symptoms of hip and elbow dysplasia can vary depending on the severity of the disease. Common symptoms include:

• Decreased activity, e.g., difficulty or reluctance to stand, run, jump, or climb stairs
• Grating in the joint during movement
• Limited range of motion
• Limping or stiffness
• Pain

Treatment

Early diagnosis can be beneficial when treating hip and elbow dysplasia. If you notice signs that your pet might be experiencing joint problems, visit your vet. Your vet will perform a physical exam, typically followed by blood work and an X-ray. 

Treatment may include dietary modulation, physical therapy, weight loss, and anti-inflammatory drugs and supplements. Surgery may be necessary for dogs with advanced cases.

Prevention

“To try and avoid this condition, you should choose a puppy bred from parents who have been professionally hip-scored,” says Dr. MacMillan. “Only dogs with a good score should be mated to increase the chances of their offspring also having good hips.”

Feed your puppy in controlled proportions to promote slow, steady growth. Excessive calories can cause rapid growth and weight gain, which are risk factors for dogs with a genetic predisposition.

Diet and exercise can help keep your dog at a healthy weight. As a preventative measure, you may also consider joint supplements.

Veterinary Costs For Hip & Elbow Dysplasia

Dysplasia treatment costs vary depending on severity and treatment type. Estimated expenses include:

• Veterinary Consultation & X-Rays: $200-$500
  • Required for diagnosis and severity assessment
• Pain Management (NSAIDs, Joint Injections): $50-$200 per month
  • Helps manage inflammation and mobility
• Physical Therapy & Hydrotherapy: $50-$100 per session
  • Strengthens muscles to support joint function
• Surgical Intervention:
  • Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO): $1,800-$2,400
  • Total Hip Replacement (THR): $5,600-$6,000 per hip
  • Elbow Dysplasia Surgery: $1,500-$4,000 per elbow

How Pet Insurance Can Help Cover Hip & Elbow Dysplasia

Most pet insurance providers cover hip and elbow dysplasia if your dog is enrolled before symptoms appear and after any waiting periods have passed. While some Boxers may show signs as early as four months old, symptoms are more commonly noticed between one and two years of age.

Many pet insurance policies include a 14-day waiting period for illnesses, but some providers have extended waiting periods for hip dysplasia, ranging from six to twelve months. The table below compares waiting periods for hip dysplasia among top pet insurance providers.

14 Days	30 Days	6 Months	12 Months

Enrolling early ensures your Boxer has access to affordable treatment options, from pain management and therapy to surgical intervention, without the financial burden falling entirely on you.

8. Histiocytic Ulcerative Colitis

Histiocytic ulcerative colitis (HUC) is a severe form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes chronic inflammation and sores (ulcers) in the lining of the large intestine. This condition is most commonly seen in Boxers under two years old. It is believed that this condition is caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, stress, infections, and food allergies.

Symptoms

• Diarrhea, soft stools that contain blood or mucous
• Gas
• Lack of appetite
• Pain when passing stool
• Weight loss

Treatment

Treatment of HUC varies depending on the severity of the disease and may include antimicrobials and anti-inflammatory drugs. Your veterinarian may also recommend dietary changes, such as increased fiber.

Veterinary Costs For HUC Treatment

Managing HUC can require long-term treatment and dietary adjustments, leading to ongoing veterinary expenses. Estimated costs include:

• Veterinary Consultation & Fecal Sample: $50-$200
  • Includes physical exam and screening for parasites
• Endoscopy & Biopsy (if needed): $1,000-$2,500
  • Required for definitive diagnosis
• Medications (Antibiotics, Anti-Inflammatories): $50-$200 per month
  • Helps control symptoms and flare-ups
• Prescription Diets & Supplements: $50-$150 per month
  • Supports digestive health and reduces recurrence

9. Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid condition. The thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, causing a decreased metabolic rate. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, this endocrine disease is most likely to affect middle-aged dogs (6-7 years) and may be more common in neutered males and spayed females. 

Symptoms

The symptoms of hypothyroidism are far-reaching, affecting virtually every organ in the body. Common signs of hypothyroidism include:

• Cold intolerance
• Dark pigmentation of the skin
• Dry, dull hair
• Excessive shedding, balding
• High blood cholesterol
• Lethargy (lack of energy)
• Mental dullness
• Recurring infections (skin and ear)
• Reproductive issues
• Thickening of skin
• Slow heart rate
• Weight gain, obesity

Treatment

Your veterinarian will use a blood test to diagnose hypothyroidism. If your pet is diagnosed with hypothyroidism, your vet will likely prescribe a synthetic thyroid hormone replacement, typically the drug levothyroxine. This oral medication must be continued daily for the rest of your pet’s life. Your dog will likely need regular blood tests to track their progress until hormone levels stabilize. 

A healthy diet can also ensure your furry friend feels their best. Your vet may prescribe dog food for your pet’s treatment. You can also consult a pet nutritionist or holistic vet for a diet plan for your dog’s needs.

Prevention

There is no way to prevent hypothyroidism; however, regular veterinary visits can diagnose this condition earlier.

Veterinary Costs For Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is manageable but requires lifelong medication and monitoring, leading to ongoing costs. Estimated expenses include:

• Blood Tests (Initial & Routine Monitoring): $100-$250 per test
  • Regular testing ensures proper medication dosage.
• Medication (Levothyroxine): $20-$50 per month
  • Daily hormone replacement therapy for life.
• Veterinary Consultations: $50-$150 per visit
  • Regular checkups to track treatment progress.

Take Action Now: These 4 Common Boxer Health Issues Are Treatable!

Consider these other Boxer health issues when seeking preventative care for your pup.

1. Acne: Dog breeds with short coats and/or wrinkly skin with folds are more susceptible to acne. Make sure to keep your pup’s skin and fur clean. Thankfully, plenty of creams, washes, and oral treatments help treat this condition.
2. Anxiety: Boxers are prone to separation anxiety and may become highly anxious when separated from their favorite family members. Supporting dogs with anxiety includes training, environmental enrichment, and supplements or prescription medication.
3. Arthritis: The inflammation and swelling of the joints associated with arthritis can be painful and lead to mobility issues. To prevent osteoarthritis, ensure your pup stays active and at a healthy weight.
4. Eye Problems: Boxers are prone to several eye problems, most likely due to their facial structure. Eye health issues for Boxers include cherry eye, corneal dystrophy, and dry eye. Talk to your vet about preventative eye care, including eye drops, healthy oils, and other supplements.

“White Boxer dogs have a particular issue of their own—they are much more likely to be deaf than their colored counterparts,” says Dr. MacMillan. “This is a hereditary issue, meaning they are much more likely to carry the gene for deafness. Many white Boxers can hear ok, so being white doesn’t automatically mean they will be deaf.”

Our Personal Experience With Boxer Anxiety

One of my favorite dogs, Duke, is a purebred Boxer. He is a very lovable pup but requires an extra special touch. Duke has extreme separation anxiety, which means he cannot be left alone for very long. Duke is a rescue pup, and we don’t know much about his background, but he has a very hard time being left behind for even just a few minutes. His entire body starts shaking, and he pants heavily while becoming very withdrawn.

In order to help soothe his anxiety, Duke was crate trained, which took quite a long time. Now, he is comfy and safe in his crate when left home alone. Duke gets a walk beforehand to tire him out a little, so he has less energy to spend on being anxious. He has a few favorite toys that stay with him and a special blanket. He always gets told goodbye, with the TV left on, and has a special treat when he is let out again. Along with that, CBD and hemp-based doggie treats have really helped soothe his nerves. Using a compression wrap like a ThunderShirt has also helped calm Duke down so he is able to be left alone for a few hours at a time.

Keeping Duke happy and safe is a big priority and has required major lifestyle changes for his humans. This took some getting used to, as he is a super high-strung dog. He is very healthy otherwise, but the anxiety has been a big challenge. Now, after several years of consistency and a solid routine, he is doing much better. However, whenever there is a change, even a slight one, the anxiety gets very bad again. Even now, his owners cannot leave him for more than about three hours and rarely, if ever, go out of town without Duke accompanying them due to his extreme reaction when they leave him overnight anywhere.

–Danielle DeGroot, Rescue Dog Parent, Canine Journal Research & Writing

Common Pet Insurance Claims Filed With Fetch

According to Fetch Pet Insurance, the three most common Boxer health issues that parents file claims for are mass lesions or swelling, gastric issues (bloat), and ACL tears. Associated costs for these health problems over a lifetime are as follows:

• Mass lesions or swelling: $3,860 to $7,640
• Gastric issues (bloat): $2,070 to $3,500
• ACL tears: $6,450 to $7,900

In one case, Fetch Pet Insurance customer Cheryl saved over $2,000 in vet bills when her pet Boxer, Roxi, began showing strange symptoms.

Health Testing For Boxers

If you’re purchasing a Boxer from a breeder, always confirm they’ve conducted comprehensive health testing. Reputable breeders use genetic screening to track health risks across generations, helping to minimize inherited conditions.

The American Boxer Club recommends that all breeders screen their dogs for the following inherited Boxer health issues:

• Aortic valve disease (aortic stenosis)
• Boxer cardiomyopathy
• Degenerative myelopathy
• Hip & elbow dysplasia
• Hypothyroidism

If you already have a Boxer, consider purchasing a DNA health test. These tests can give you a better understanding of your pet’s health risks so that you can create a proactive health plan. Some DNA tests even offer a vet consultation once you’ve received your dog’s results so that you can receive answers to follow-up questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions our readers frequently ask about Boxer health issues. Don’t see yours? Ask us in the comments.

What Is The Life Expectancy Of A Boxer?

The lifespan of a Boxer averages 10 to 12 years.

How Do I Keep My Boxer Healthy?

You can take many steps to keep your pooch in good health. I recommend that you focus on the following:

• Diet: A quality diet may delay the onset or alleviate symptoms of health conditions.
• Exercise: Make sure your puppy gets plenty of physical activity daily, whether walking, running, or playing fetch. This will keep your pet physically fit and benefit you both from quality time together.
• Mental health: To reduce your dog’s stress and prevent boredom, provide opportunities for play and socialization.
• Preventative care: Vaccinations, dental cleanings, parasite prevention, and quick illness diagnosis are all part of preventative care.

How Can I Reduce My Vet Bills?

Providing your Boxer with a nutritious diet and regular exercise can help prevent many common health issues, reducing the need for frequent vet visits. However, accidents and illnesses can happen unexpectedly, leading to costly medical bills.

One of the best ways to manage unforeseen veterinary expenses is by investing in pet insurance. A good policy can help cover emergency care, surgeries, medications, and chronic condition management, saving you thousands over your dog’s lifetime.

We’ve reviewed the best pet insurance for Boxers, ranking them based on price, breed-specific coverage, reputation, and customer satisfaction.

Curious about the cost of pet insurance for your Boxer? Fill out the free quote form below for instant pricing.

Why Trust Canine Journal?

Boxers, like all dogs, can face unexpected health challenges. That’s why Tara Maurer is dedicated to helping Boxer owners make informed decisions about their dogs’ well-being. Having personally experienced the decline and loss of a beloved pet, Tara understands firsthand the importance of proactive care and reliable information. As a member of the Canine Journal team, she brings over a decade of experience researching, testing, and writing about all things dog-related. With 8+ years in the wellness industry, Tara’s expertise in pet nutrition and supplementation further strengthens her ability to provide Boxer owners with tailored health insights—especially for a breed prone to cancer, cardiomyopathy, and joint issues.

One of our leading pet insurance experts, Kimberly Alt, has spent over a decade writing about nearly every aspect of pet insurance. Her deep understanding of Boxer-specific health conditions allows her to guide owners in choosing the best insurance providers for a breed prone to hereditary conditions like aortic stenosis, degenerative myelopathy, and mast cell tumors. Kimberly knows which providers offer the most comprehensive coverage for Boxers’ unique health risks, helping owners make informed choices to manage vet costs and ensure their dogs receive the best care possible.

To further enhance our accuracy and credibility, Tara consulted with Michelle Schenker, Canine Journal’s in-house licensed insurance agent. Michelle’s expertise ensures that our Boxer-specific pet insurance recommendations are thoroughly vetted, accurately represented, and genuinely beneficial for owners looking for the best coverage for this high-risk breed.