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Do Boxers Like to Cuddle? The Cuddly Giant Explained

A popular question that all dog owners have is how “cuddly” their breed is. I mean, who doesn’t love a cuddle with their doggo. So how cuddly are boxers? This article explains everything.

Yes, Boxer dogs do like to cuddle. In fact, Boxers are considered one of the most cuddly breeds out there. Boxers quickly develop strong bonds with their family and love showing affection.

boxer dog cuddle

Do Boxers Like To Cuddle?

Simply put, yes boxers love cuddling. It’ll be hard to find a boxer that doesn’t like to cuddle. This breed is one of the most affectionate breeds out there. Phew!

  • If you want a cuddly breed, a dog you can come home to and snuggle up with on the couch, then a boxer will be perfect.

Many owners jokingly call their boxers, giant lapdogs, due to how much affection and physical contact they engage in.

Why Are Boxers So Cuddly?

Once people witness just how cuddly boxers are, they often ask why.

Although Boxers were originally used as working dogs, hunting dogs, and even as bull baiters, they were always great family dogs too.

It comes naturally for Boxers to develop a deep connection with their owners and human family. This strong bond is what’s responsible for their outward displays of affection.

For some breeds, this comes naturally, and for others, it doesn’t…

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Do Boxer Puppies Cuddle As Much As Adults?

This is a good question, and the answer may surprise you…

No, Boxer puppies are likely too hyper to worry about cuddles or being affectionate.

Any attempt to get close or make contact is usually seen as an initiation of play. Puppies are way too excitable to relax and cuddle, and any attempts will just result in them slipping out from your arms to grab their toy.

It’s also important to note that puppies have not yet mentally matured, and the bond between you and them, isn’t established or understood.

So, when your Boxer puppy doesn’t come to you for cuddles, it’s completely normal, even despite being “one of the most cuddly breeds”

Just remember that once your Boxer reaches adulthood, you won’t be able to stop the cuddles and kisses!

6 Common Ways Boxer Dogs Show Affection

Cuddles are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to how boxers show affection.

Boxers show their affections in many ways including the following:

● Leaning up against you:

Physical contact is a huge one, and it can be as subtle as coming to sit right next to you making sure their body is touching yours.

● Slobbery kisses:

Boxers are known for being a bit slobbery, and they are also known for being generous with their kisses. So when you pair these two together, you’ve got a lot to deal with! Don’t worry, you can always train against this behavior if it’s not for you.

● Real hugs:

As you already know by now, Boxers are cuddlers and this will be one of their main weapons when showing you some love. You may be surprised, Boxers are known to give actual hugs, it’s quite funny to see.

● Sitting and laying on you:

This is when physical contact goes to the next level. Boxers have a thing for coming to sit literally on top of your lap, and if that’s not enough, they like to lay fully down on you to receive their “good boy pets”.

● Being by your side:

Boxers love to follow you around, know where you are, and be with you as much as they can. Some may classify this as being clingy, and that may be accurate, but for them, it’s a natural behavior to engage in when your bond is strong.

● Pawing at you:

When Boxers play and want attention they stand on their hind legs while using their two front paws to “box”. This is how they got their name. Not only is it a sign to play, but it can also be a sign of affection.

And the list goes on…

In general, once you have a strong bond with your Boxer he’s going to want as much interaction with you as possible. Whether it’s cuddles, following you around, sitting next to you, or sitting on you, it’s all just love.

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Can Boxers Be Overly Affectionate?

It’s all well and good enjoying those cuddles when you want them, but it’s actually signifying something else, and that’s how much attention Boxers require.

Boxers develop such a strong bond with their owners and human family, that it becomes very hard for them to spend time alone.

Boxers are not a breed that copes well when left home alone and this is something very important to think about whether you’ve already got a Boxer or are considering getting one.

This level of affection and desire to have human interaction requires you to look at your schedule and how your Boxer will fit into your day.

After having spoken to many Boxer owners, one thing they’ve all agreed upon is just how much time the owner needs to give to the boxer. This has a direct impact on their overall happiness and health.

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Should You Limit How Much Your Boxer Cuddles?

The short answer is no, not really. This would be like trying to discourage a bird from flying! Boxers are naturally affectionate and it’s normal for them to be clingy, touchy and if this is annoying for you, then the Boxer isn’t the breed for you.

A way that may possibly reduce the amount of interaction your Boxer seeks, is to ignore his displays of affection to you, and with time, he’ll learn that it doesn’t trigger a response.

But for many people, that’s considered to be extremely unfair. Boxers are this way, and that isn’t bad, for the right person.

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Final Thoughts

Boxers are one of the true friendly giants, and while intimidating in size and appearance, are one of the most cuddly, loving, and affectionate breeds we know of.

Boxers are known for their affection, but there’s a fine line between being cute, and being clingy, and honestly, Boxers sail right past the line… This means that Boxers are attention-seeking and require their owners to be with them for most of the day.

Whether you’re ready or capable of living with a dog that requires so much of your time and attention is something serious to think about. So be sure to make the right decision!

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Disclaimer

Before making any decisions that could affect the health and/or safety of your dog, you should always consult a trained veterinarian in your local area. Even though this content may have been written/reviewed by a trained veterinarian, our advice to you is to always consult your own local veterinarian in person. Please read our full dislcaimer if you have any questions.