Boxachi Basics

The solid Boxachi combines the feisty nature of the Mexican Chihuahua with the playful personality of a Boxer to produce a fun-loving, medium-sized family dog that does well with kids and other pets, thrives on attention and is happy to complain loudly when suspicious looking characters come near the house.

The Boxachi combines the feisty nature of the Chihuahua and the playful personality of the Boxer.

Origin

The Boxachi is considered a Designer Breed, having come from two pure-bred parents. Often these dogs are bred to produce a smaller size of a popular breed and in this instance it’s a smaller version of the Boxer.

Pedigree

Not being a pure-bred, the Boxachi does not qualify to be a member of the American Kennel Club (AKC) however both his parents are long-time members. The Chihuahua joined the club’s “toy” group in 1904 and the Boxer joined the AKC’s “working” group – also in 1904.

Food / Diet

The Boxachi is a solid dog that is considered medium-sized and will need a top quality kibble that is specifically geared to his age, size and activity level. Because Boxers can be prone to a digestive issue called bloat, don’t plan to free-feed your Boxachi. Provide him with 2-3 smaller meals throughout the day and make sure the food is low in fillers (grains and carbs) that may cause him to over-eat to feel full.

Patience will be needed when training your Boxachi!

Training

The Boxachi comes from two intelligent breeds; one is sassy and confident and the other is playful and easily distracted. Patience will be needed when training your Boxachi! As with all dog breeds, a firm, consistent approach that is rewards-based for a job well done will get you the best results.

Weight

Your Boxachi is a medium-sized dog that will weigh between 45 – 60 pounds.

Temperament / Behavior

Boxachis typically possess the eternally playful nature of the Boxer and in spite of the Chihuahua’s often aggressive behavior toward other dogs they get along well with all family members when socialized early on. While he is friendly and affectionate to his human pack, he is a cautious dog who is quick to spot a stranger and is only too happy to bark to let you know it.

Common Health Problems

While pure-bred dogs can often be plagued with health issues, breeders have become adept at cancelling out many of these concerns through the careful selection and mixing of different breeds. While Chihuahuas are prone to patella luxation and joint issues, Boxers can experience epilepsy, bloat and certain cancers. These ailments may completely bypass the Boxachi but you should always be aware of what may be inherited.

Life Expectancy

The Boxachi has a life expectancy of 10-15 years.

Exercise Requirements

While your Boxachi can do quite well in an apartment, he will need daily walks to satisfy his need for physical and mental stimulation. A playful nature means this sweet boy will do well at a dog park or just playing catch in your backyard. Boxers do not typically do well in the cold, so invest in a good winter coat for walks and dog parks during colder weather.

Boxachis typically possess the eternally playful nature of the Boxer.

Recognized Clubs

Also known as a Choxer, the Boxachi is recognized by the Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA).

Coat

The Boxachi typically has a black or tan coat of the Chihuahua but will often have the shorter muzzle and darker facial markings that are the hallmark of a Boxer. His short, soft thin coat means he doesn’t do well in colder temperatures so will need a coat when out for walks. It also means he is a moderate shedder and brushing 1-2 times per week should be sufficient to keep his coat looking its best.

Puppies

Boxachi puppies are intelligent little guys who should be socialized early and can be trained in obedience from a very young age. Because this pooch comes from a breed that can suffer from joint issues, take it easy when walking and exercising him so as not to cause injuries that may plague him later in life.

Photo credit: bullcitydogs/Flickr; namohyen/Flickr