Trying to decide between pitbull vs boxer? Well, you're in luck because in this vet-verified breed comparison, we're revealing everything you need to know about these two dogs so you can find the right dog for you.
Pitbulls have a controversial history and reputation, having originally been bred for bull baiting and fighting. However, with the correct training and socialization, pitbulls are known for being incredibly loyal, affectionate, and friendly companions.
Boxers are true canine clowns, with goofy and enthusiastic natures that make it impossible not to fall in love with them. Bright and alert, they are very patient and protective dogs, making them a wonderful choice for families with children.
To help you decide which of these two breeds to welcome into your home, we turned to expert vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan. Below, she shares her knowledge around how easy these two breeds are to train, how much exercise they need, and the specific health issues they're each prone to. Let's take a look...
Size: Pitbull vs boxer
The boxer is the taller and heavier of these two breeds, with males weighing between 65–80 pounds and females coming in around 15 pounds lighter. Males are slightly taller than females, measuring approximately 23–25 inches, with females reaching heights of 21.5–23.5 inches.
Pitbulls show the same differences between the sexes, with males being taller and heavier than their female counterparts. Most male pitbulls stand 18–19 inches tall at the shoulder and can weigh anywhere between 35–60 pounds. Females stand 17–18 inches tall and typically weigh 30–50 pounds.
Appearance: Pitbull vs boxer
While both pitbulls and boxers are medium-sized, muscular dogs, there are some key differences that set these two breeds apart.
Pitbulls have a broader and squarer head than boxers, with a slightly longer muzzle, and they are more compact with a wider chest and strong shoulders. They have a short tail, which is usually kept at its natural length, and their ears can be cropped or left natural. Pitbulls are also known for their wide smile.
In contrast, boxers have a rounder face and a lower jaw that is much longer than their upper jaw, which gives them a very distinctive underbite. Their ears and short tail are typically cropped, and they have a lean and athletic build. They also have flat faces coupled with round eyes, which gives them a baby-faced appearance.
Intelligence and trainability: Pitbull vs boxer
Thinking of adopting a dog? If so, how easy they're going to be to train may be something you want to think about before deciding on which breed to welcome into your life.
According to Dr MacMillan, both pitbulls and boxers need early socialization and training to ensure they grow into well-mannered adult dogs.
"Boxer dogs are moderately intelligent, whereas pitbulls are of moderate to high intelligence," she explains.
"Both breeds are energetic, so it’s important they receive enough exercise, otherwise it could affect their concentration during training. They are both keen learners, but can also be a bit stubborn at times, so consistency is key. Some owners report that boxers can take a bit longer to housetrain compared to pitbulls."
Training your dog on your own needn't be a huge challenge, but it's worth bearing in mind that it may take a fair bit of time, patience, and consistency to help your new fur friend learn the ropes of what's expected of them.
Exercise needs: Pitbull vs boxer
Looking for a quiet pace of life filled with gentle strolls around your neighborhood and leisurely days at home? Well, you'll definitely want to steer clear of these two breeds! However, if what you're after is an active companion who will keep you on your toes, then Dr MacMillan says that both of these breeds are a great choice.
"Boxer dogs are known for their bouncy enthusiasm! They are energetic and need at least two hours of exercise per day, whereas many pitbulls may only need one to two hours," she explains.
Because boxers are a flat-faced breed, it's worth splitting up their exercise sessions and spreading them out across the day to avoid them overheating—this is particularly important in the warmer months when they struggle to regulate their body temperature.
Both boxers and pitbulls are high-energy breeds who need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Because of that, it's worth investing in some of the best dog puzzle toys to give their minds a good workout. Playing a variety of brain games for dogs will also go down a treat with these two breeds.
Grooming: Pitbull vs boxer
While grooming sessions can be a wonderful way to bond with your dog, you may not have a ton of spare time to spend brushing your new fur friend. If that's the case, you'll be relieved to hear that both of these breeds are very low-maintenance on the grooming front.
"Boxers and pitbulls have short, easy-to-care-for coats, which just need brushing once a week to remove loose hairs," says Dr. MacMillan. "Like all dog breeds, they will also need daily teeth brushing, however, to prevent tartar buildup and gum inflammation."
When it comes to keeping dog teeth clean, it's important to use a pet-safe toothpaste. You can pair this with dental dog chews and treats to help reduce plaque and making sure your pup has regular vet checkups can also be a great way to keep their pearly whites in tip-top condition.
Health considerations: Pitbull vs boxer
With most of us keen to have our dogs with us for as long as possible, it's normal to be worried about potential health issues. We asked Dr MacMillan what sort of problems you may encounter if you adopt a boxer or a pitbull. Here's what she had to say:
"Boxer dogs are brachycephalic (flat-faced), meaning they have narrowed airways compared to most pitbulls," she explains. "This increases the chances of breathing issues, exercise intolerance, and snoring, as well as putting them at greater risk of heatstroke. Brachycephalic dog breeds are at an increased risk of running into difficulties when giving birth, due to their wide, square heads.
“Boxer dogs are at a greater risk of developing cancer than many other dog breeds. Malignant skin tumors are common in boxers, including mast cell tumors. But they can also suffer from other forms of cancer, like lymphoma.
“Boxers are also prone to certain inherited heart conditions, including arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC), otherwise known as ‘boxer cardiomyopathy’. This heart complaint can cause exercise intolerance, fainting, and breathing difficulties."
Dr MacMillan adds that in her opinion, pitbulls are the healthier of the two breeds as they are not specifically prone to some of the big health problems that boxers are.
"However, like many breeds, they commonly suffer from skin allergies. Affected dogs may experience hair loss, itchiness, and skin inflammation. Demodectic mange is common in pitbulls, too. These small mites can cause patchy hair loss, but they are easily treated with anti-parasite products."
Finally, Dr MacMillan says: "Hip dysplasia can affect both pitbulls and boxers, so purchasing your puppy from a reputable breeder who health screens their dogs is essential."
Owner suitability: Pitbull vs boxer
So, now that you know a little bit more about the pitbull and boxer, you may be wondering which of these two dogs would be the best fit for you, your home, and your lifestyle.
According to Dr MacMillan, both breeds require an owner with an active lifestyle who has plenty of time to put into exercising and training.
"If these dogs are under-stimulated, it could lead to behavioral issues like anxiety, increased vocalization, and destructive tendencies," she explains.
If you have children at home, Dr MacMillan says that boxers are a much better choice.
"Boxers are much better suited to families than pitbulls, as they tend to be playful and have a more even personality. The pitbull is a banned breed in many countries due to questions raised about their temperament, so I would never recommend keeping them in a household with young children."
Read next: More facts about boxers and facts about pitbulls
Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis De Leaver.
Rebecca is a veterinary surgeon who graduated in 2009 from the Royal Veterinary College in London. She has a wealth of experience in first opinion small animal practice, having done a mixture of day-to-day routine work, on-call emergency duties and managerial roles over the years. Rebecca enjoys medicine in particular and she is proud to have recently achieved a BSAVA postgraduate certificate in small animal medicine (with commendation).
She writes on various feline and canine topics, including behavior, nutrition, and health. Outside of work and writing she enjoys walking her own dog, spending time with her young family and baking!
