Whippet Boxer Mix: A Complete Guide to the Boxerwhip

Welcome to your comprehensive guide to the Whippet Boxer Mix, also known as the Boxerwhip.

If you’re eager to discover:

The unique personality of the Boxerwhip
The training and grooming needs of this mixed breed
The health considerations and expected lifespan

Then you’re in the right place. This guide is packed with detailed information to help you understand and appreciate this fascinating breed mix.

Let’s get started.

Table of Contents

Quick Whippet Boxer Mix Facts

Size: Medium to large, standing 20 to 24 inches (51 to 61 cm) tall.
Coat: Short and smooth.
Energy: High.
Suitability for Children: Excellent.
Life Span: 10-15 years.
Temperament: Playful, friendly, and energetic.
Training: Intelligent and trainable, but requires consistent training.
Grooming: Low-maintenance with minimal shedding.
Friendliness: Highly social and friendly with both humans and other dogs.

Origin of the Boxerwhip

The Boxerwhip comes from a mix of two different breeds, the Whippet and the Boxer. The goal was to mix the Whippet’s speed and agility with the Boxer’s strength and playful character. This created a unique, lively, and loving pet.

But, the exact details of the Boxerwhip’s beginning are still unknown, as with many mixed breeds.

Origin of the Whippet

The Whippet breed first appeared in England in the 1800s. It’s thought to have descended from the Greyhound, Italian Greyhound, and the Bedlington, Manchester, and English White terriers. These dogs were first known as ‘snapdogs’ because they were good at catching rats and hares.

They also got the nickname “poor man’s race horse”. This was because coal miners liked to race them for fun and used them to catch small animals.

The name ‘Whippet’ is believed to come from “whappet,” an old word for a small, noisy dog. Lancashire textile workers brought these dogs to America. There, Whippet racing became very popular. The American Kennel Club (AKC) added its first Whippet in 1888.

Origin of the Boxer

The Boxer breed started in Germany in the late 19th century and was created as a working dog. It was originally bred from the now-gone Bullenbeisser, a big hunting dog, and the smaller, nimbler English Bulldog. The aim was to create a strong, muscular breed.

Boxers are famous for their strength and agility. They were often used for jobs like cattle herding, hunting, and even as war dogs.

Over time, their faithful nature and protective instincts have made them popular. They are not just working dogs but also much-loved family pets.

Whippet Boxer Mix Appearance

In this section, we’ll look at the special look of the Whippet Boxer Mix. From their fur to their body shape, each characteristic adds to their unique appeal.

Colour

The Boxerwhip’s coat is short and smooth, showing its Whippet and Boxer background. It comes in many colours, from single shades to a mix of two.

You might see Boxerwhips in white, brindle, fawn, black, blue, or red. This range of colours is a lovely feature of the breed. It makes each Boxerwhip special in its own way.

Size

The Boxerwhip’s size is a mix of its parent breeds, usually ranging from medium to large. Adult males can be between 20-25 inches (51-64 cm) tall.

Females are a bit smaller, typically 18-23 inches (46-58 cm) tall.

Their weight can range from 30-70 pounds (14-32 kg), based on their genes.

Typical Temperament Traits

The key to understanding any mixed breed’s temperament is to look at the parent breeds. Here we’ll look at the temperament of Whippets and Boxers to see how they can combine in a Boxerwhip.

Whippet Personality

The Boxerwhip, with its calm nature inherited from the Whippet, is a relaxed but playful pet. This breed is known for its strong urge to chase, a sign of its hunting past.

At first, they might be a bit shy around strangers, but they soon adjust and show their loving and loyal side in a safe setting. They’re a great fit for active families, as the Boxerwhip loves a busy home. They get along well with children and other pets.

Their personality is a mix of the Whippet’s calmness and the Boxer’s energy bursts. This makes them a friendly breed that can easily switch between rest and play.

Their care and upkeep aren’t too demanding, but they still need a certain amount of attention to keep them happy and healthy.

Boxer Personality

Boxers are famous for their lively and cheerful character. They are energetic, enjoy playing, and are very loyal to their families. Their protective nature makes them great watchdogs.

But, they are also known for their patience and kindness with children. Even though they love to play, Boxers are smart and respond well to training.

They need mental exercise and physical activity, making them a pleasure to have in active families.

Whippet Boxer Mix Combined Temperament

The Boxerwhip’s temperament is a lovely mix of its parent breeds. This crossbreed gets the Whippet’s calm and gentle nature, along with the Boxer’s lively and playful spirit. This creates a dog that is both energetic and relaxed, making it a flexible friend.

The Boxerwhip is known to be loving, forming strong bonds with its family. It’s also sociable and friendly towards strangers. Its smartness and desire to please make it easy to train. But, it also has a bit of independence.

In summary, the Boxerwhip’s temperament is a balanced mix of calmness, playfulness, and friendliness.

Raising a Boxerwhip Puppy

Getting a Boxerwhip puppy is a thrilling adventure full of satisfying moments. This breed is famous for its lively character and endless energy. It needs regular training and socialisation from a young age.

Introducing them to different places, people, and animals early on can help create a well-adjusted adult dog. They should get a balanced diet and regular exercise for healthy growth.

Don’t forget, being patient and using positive reinforcement are crucial in helping your Boxerwhip puppy grow.

Whippet Boxer Mix Socialization

Socialising is a key part of bringing up a Boxerwhip. In the next sections, we’ll explore how to properly introduce your Boxerwhip to other dogs and children. This will help them become a friendly, balanced companion.

Socializing With Other Dogs

The Boxerwhip usually shows a friendly and playful attitude when interacting with other dogs. This breed’s natural friendliness, inherited from its Boxer parent, makes it a good friend for other dogs.

However, the Whippet’s quiet nature can sometimes show up, causing occasional shyness. Regular and steady socialisation can help lessen this, promoting a stable and confident interaction with other dogs.

But, you should remember that each Boxerwhip is unique. Their social behaviour can change based on their individual personality and upbringing.

Socializing With Children

The Boxerwhip’s friendly and playful character makes it a great mate for children. Its natural patience, along with the energy to match active kids, forms a balanced bond.

But, as with any breed, watching over is needed to make sure interactions are safe.

Showing children how to approach and handle the Boxerwhip is just as crucial, nurturing a respectful and loving relationship.

Training And Exercise

The Whippet Boxer Mix needs regular training and exercise. This lively breed loves at least an hour of outdoor fun every day, like playing, walking, or running in the park.

Owners who are active themselves are perfect for this breed, as they can keep up with the Boxerwhip’s high energy levels.

Whippet Boxer mix dog running outside and playing

Training should start as soon as possible, using rewards to encourage good behaviour. Praising them and giving treats can help make training a positive experience. But, remember that the Boxerwhip can be stubborn and independent. This could make training difficult if it doesn’t start early.

Even though this breed needs lots of exercise, they don’t need much grooming. A bath once a month and a brush now and then should be enough to keep their coat tidy and smooth.

Even though they do shed a bit, the Boxerwhip isn’t thought to be hypoallergenic.

Space Requirements

The Boxerwhip needs plenty of room to move around. Its size can be more like the Whippet or Boxer, depending on which genes are stronger.

Because it’s full of energy, it needs to run around without a lead every day. This stops it from behaving badly, showing it needs a big space.

This strong, short-haired mixed breed loves places where it can run and discover new things.

Whippet Boxer Mix Health And Care

Starting with the health and care of the Boxerwhip, we’ll explore the details of keeping them healthy. This part will give you an understanding of their special health needs, grooming needs, and general care.

Grooming Requirements: Do Whippet Boxer Mixes Shed?

The Boxerwhip’s grooming needs are quite simple. Their short, smooth coat benefits from a weekly brush to reduce shedding, although they are not hypoallergenic.

Bathing is only needed now and then, unless they’ve had a particularly muddy outing.

Regular vet check-ups are needed to keep them healthy.

During grooming sessions, positive reinforcement can help your Boxerwhip respond well to commands and cues. This makes the process easier for both of you.

Whippet Health

Whippets, the thin fast dogs, are usually healthy but can have certain health problems. These include deafness, heart valve disease, allergies, and sensitivity to anaesthesia.

More serious conditions like dog blood vessel cancer, underactive thyroid, and stomach twisting, also known as bloat, can also happen.

Bone injuries, hip problems, and eye cornea disease are other possible health worries.

But, even with these possible problems, Whippets are known for their loyalty, playfulness, and calm behaviour when they get enough exercise. This makes them great family pets.

Sources: Animal Health Clinic

Boxer Health

Boxers are usually strong and healthy, but they can get certain health problems that are common in this breed. One of these is Degenerative Myelopathy, a disease that gets worse over time and affects the spinal cord. This can cause problems with moving and, in serious cases, can lead to not being able to move at all.

Another common health problem is Boxer Cardiomyopathy, a heart problem. This can cause symptoms like heavy breathing, fainting, and a heartbeat that isn’t regular. Boxers can also get Bloat or gastric dilation. This is a serious problem that can quickly make a dog’s health worse.

Bloat causes the stomach to fill with gas, which can cause discomfort. In the worst cases, it can be a threat to life. But, regular visits to the vet and a balanced diet can help manage these health risks. This will help your Boxer to live a healthy, happy life.

Sources: PetMD

Whippet Boxer Mix Health

The health of a Boxerwhip can be affected by a blend of genetic factors from both parent breeds. Like all mixed breeds, they might inherit health problems common to either the Whippet or the Boxer.

Regular vet check-ups and a balanced diet can help keep their overall health in check.

But, they should be aware of potential health risks for early detection and treatment.

Life Expectancy

A well-looked-after Boxerwhip can live between 10 to 15 years.

Whippet Boxer Mix life expecancy comparison chart

Regular health checks and good care can help achieve this long life.

Rescuing A Boxerwhip

Rescuing a Boxerwhip can be a rewarding experience. It gives a second chance to a dog in need. This strong, lively breed is known for its friendly nature, making it a great addition to any family.

But, potential rescuers should know that this breed needs daily exercise to stop destructive behaviours like chewing or scratching furniture. The Boxerwhip’s simple grooming needs make it an easy breed to look after.

However, they should be given company to stop them feeling lonely. Remember, rescuing a dog is a commitment. But the love and loyalty of a rescued Boxerwhip can make it a truly satisfying task.

Where to Find A Whippet Boxer Mix Puppy

Finding a Boxerwhip puppy might need some patience and study. Start by contacting local breeders who focus on Whippets, Boxers, or mixed breeds.

Make sure they are trustworthy, putting the health and happiness of their dogs first. Also, think about going to dog shows or breed-specific events to meet breeders and fans.

Online platforms can also be a helpful tool, providing a broad range of listings. But, always check the trustworthiness of online sellers.

Finally, don’t forget rescue organisations and shelters, as they often have mixed-breed puppies looking for caring homes.

Whippet Boxer Mix Breeders

Finding trustworthy Whippet Boxer Mix breeders can be tricky due to the breed’s unique mix. It’s crucial to choose a breeder who values the health and temperament of their dogs above all else.

A good breeder will be open about the health history of the parent breeds and will let you meet the puppy’s parents. They should also give you a health guarantee and proof of health checks.

Adopting a Mix Breed Dog. Cost and Challenges

Getting a mixed-breed dog like the Boxerwhip can be a rewarding experience, but it’s not without its difficulties and costs. The adoption price can change a lot based on several things. These include the dog’s age, its health, and the rules of the rescue group. Puppies, for example, often have a higher adoption fee than older dogs because they need more vaccinations and care.

The first cost of adoption is just the start. Future owners should also think about ongoing costs like food, grooming, vet care, and pet insurance.

Mixed breed dogs can sometimes be harder to understand in terms of behaviour and health problems, as they get traits from two different breeds.

Despite these difficulties, the benefits of adopting a mixed-breed dog like the Boxerwhip are huge. You not only get a unique and loving friend, but you also help animal welfare by giving a home to a dog in need.

FAQs

Here are the responses to some of the frequently asked questions we receive about the Boxerwhip.

What are the different names for a Whippet cross Boxer?

The Whippet Boxer mix is often called a Boxerwhip. This name combines the names of the parent breeds. It shows the special mix of traits passed down from both the Whippet and the Boxer.

Does the Boxerwhip Breed Bark a Lot?

The Boxerwhip, a delightful and lively mixed breed, isn’t known for lots of barking. But, like any dog, they might bark to let their owners know about strange happenings or when they’re bored.

Regular exercise and mental stimulation can reduce this behaviour. This makes sure the Boxerwhip is happy and well-behaved.

Is the Whippet Boxer Mix Breed Intelligent?

The Whippet Boxer Mix is usually known for its happy and self-assured nature. It’s a smart breed, likely getting its intelligence from its Boxer parent, a breed famous for its cleverness.

This lively mixed breed needs daily exercise without a leash to use its brain and stop harmful behaviour.