What makes Boxers great pets?
Full of fun, energy and pure joy, Boxers can be affectionate and lively family pets.
This isn't a dog for the faint-hearted though. These happy-go-lucky characters have the longest length of 'puppyhood' of all dogs, lasting around three years. But Boxers are loving to their families and will reward you with many years of companionship and loyalty.
What types of pet insurance policies are there?
There are four main types of pet insurance policies. Here’s a brief look at the differences:
Lifetime: this is the most comprehensive type of pet insurance. It can cover your dog for ongoing conditions throughout their life, as long as you renew the policy each year.
Maximum benefit: this policy type covers vet fees up to a set amount for each condition. Once you’ve reached the limit, you won’t be covered for that condition again, even if you renew the policy.
Time limited: often recommended for older pets, this type of policy typically covers illness and injuries for a set period only, usually 12 months. Also, each aspect of the cover has a set limit; you’ll only be covered up to that amount, and you can’t claim for any specific condition more than once.
Accident-only: this can cover your Boxer if it has an accident, but it doesn’t offer cover for any illnesses or medical conditions.
Things to look out for on your policy
When choosing a pet insurance policy, it’s important to pay attention to the details. Here are some key things to look out for:
Excess: this is the amount you’ll need to pay towards a claim before your insurance kicks in. Make sure you’re comfortable with this amount, which can vary between policies.
Cover limits: check the maximum amount your policy will pay out for each condition or claim. Some policies have annual limits, while others have per-condition limits.
Exclusions: be aware of what isn’t covered by your policy. Exclusions can include pre-existing medical conditions, routine treatments and pregnancy.
Waiting period: when you get dog insurance, there’s often a waiting period – typically the first 14 days – during which you can’t make a claim. Be sure to check your policy, as waiting periods can vary.
Do Boxers have known health conditions?
Although Boxer dogs look tough, they’re actually quite sensitive to a number of health conditions, some of which are hereditary. Here are some common ones:
Hip dysplasia: Boxers are particularly affected by this due to their energetic nature, which puts extra stress on their joints. It can be painful and may require surgery in severe cases.
Heart conditions: Boxers are prone to various heart issues, which can affect their overall health and wellbeing. Their genetic makeup and active lifestyle can contribute to these heart problems, making regular veterinary check-ups essential for early detection and management.
Eye disease: due to their distinctive facial structure, Boxers can suffer from various eye problems, including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy.
Some cancers: unfortunately, Boxers are more susceptible than some other breeds to certain types of cancer, such as mast cell tumours and lymphoma.
Hypothyroidism: Boxers are more prone to this due to their breed-specific hormonal imbalances, although it can be managed with medication.
Degenerative myelopathy: a spinal disease that Boxers are at risk of because of their genetic lineage. While there’s no cure, supportive care can help manage symptoms.
Oral health
While Boxers do not have breed-specific oral health issues, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial.
Regularly brushing their teeth with dog-specific toothpaste, providing dental chews, and scheduling vet check-ups can prevent periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss and infections.
Brachycephalic dogs
It’s also worth noting that Boxers are a brachycephalic breed, which means they have short, flatter noses.
They can suffer from breathing problems and may struggle to regulate their temperature, especially in summer, so be sure they have access to shady spots and plenty of water during warmer months.
Hopefully, your Boxer will live a long and healthy life. But if your dog does get ill, having good Boxer dog insurance can help you give them the best treatment possible.
How much is it to insure my Boxer?
The cost of insuring a Boxer dog can vary, but the average premium for dog insurance is £119 per year [2]. To find out how much it will cost you, start comparing pet insurance quotes now.
Pet insurance providers consider several factors when calculating premiums, including:
Policy type: if you want a comprehensive policy, it might cost a bit more than a basic one.
Age: older dogs might have higher premiums because they're more prone to health issues.
Pedigree breed: purebred Boxers might be more expensive to insure due to genetic health issues.
Pre-existing medical conditions: these can limit your coverage options and you may need to look for a specialist policy.
Location: where you live might come into play, as vet fees can vary by region.
[2] 51% of our customers were quoted less than £118.13 for their dog insurance in June 2026.
Boxer profile
Boxers are a medium to large-sized breed known for their muscular build and playful nature. Here's a quick profile of a healthy adult Boxer:
Size | Weight | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
Medium to large | 25-32 kg | 10-12 years |
Boxers are bundles of energy and need plenty of exercise – at least two hours a day to keep them happy and healthy. They're pretty smart and eager to please, so they train well with consistency and lots of treats.
They thrive in homes with space to stretch their legs but can readily adapt to city life if well-exercised and mentally stimulated.
Tips for keeping your Boxer happy and healthy
Diet: Boxers have a hearty appetite and require a balanced diet to maintain their energy levels. It’s best to feed them high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs. Divide their meals into two portions a day to prevent bloating, which can be a concern for this breed.
Grooming: Boxers have a short, smooth coat that is relatively low maintenance. They are moderate shedders, so a weekly brush will help keep their coat healthy. Be sure to clean the folds of skin on your Boxer’s face as this breed can be prone to dermatitis.
Staying social: Boxers are social animals and thrive on interaction with their human family and other dogs. Regular playdates and socialisation from a young age can help them develop good manners and may prevent behavioural issues.
Vet check-ups: regular check-ups are crucial for Boxers to monitor their health and catch any potential issues early.
Routine vaccinations, dental care, and screenings for common Boxer health concerns like heart conditions and hip dysplasia should be part of their healthcare routine.
Microchipping
In the UK, it’s not just a good idea to microchip your dog – it’s a legal requirement.
By the time your Boxer is eight weeks old, they should be microchipped. If not, you could face a fine of up to £500.
Microchipping helps ensure your dog can be easily identified and returned to you if they ever get lost. You can get this done at your local vet or through various animal charities.
Also, don’t forget that your dog must also wear a collar with a tag. This tag should include your name and address, making it easy for anyone who finds your dog to get them back to you quickly. Many dog owners also add a phone number. Not tagging your dog could also lead to a fine.
What do I need to get a quote?
To compare insurance with Compare the Market, you’ll need to know:
Your pet’s breed, age and gender
How much you paid or donated when you bought or took ownership of your pet
Whether your pet has been spayed, or if it’s been neutered
Whether they’re microchipped.
FAQs
What is third-party pet insurance and do I need it?
Third-party pet insurance could give you cover if your dog bites or injures another pet or person or damages their property, and a claim is made against you. Dogs of all sorts can get into scraps, and Boxers are known to have a powerful bite.
Also known as third-party public liability insurance, this cover is included as standard with most pet insurance policies. So do double check your pet policy to see if you already have it.
What if my Boxer is lost or stolen?
If your Boxer goes missing, some providers’ policies can help you by offering a public reward for finding your dog, or paying towards the cost of publicity to help you get your dog back. If all else fails, they could pay compensation if he or she isn’t found, up to the amount you bought your Boxer for.
Are Boxers good for new owners?
Boxers can be a handful for first-time dog owners due to their high energy levels and extended puppyhood. They require consistent training and socialisation to ensure they grow into well-behaved adults.
Boxers’ affectionate nature and loyalty can make them rewarding companions if you're prepared for the commitment. But it’s essential to consider your lifestyle and experience if you’re thinking of choosing a Boxer as your first dog.
Are Boxers good with kids?
Boxers are known for their patience and can be quite gentle with kids, making them suitable for families.
As with all breeds, children should never be left unsupervised with a dog. It’s important to train and socialise your Boxer properly to ensure they interact well with kids too.
Why should I compare Boxer insurance with Compare the Market?
We can tailor your pet insurance quote to your needs. Just tell us about you and your Boxer, and what type of cover you’d like. We’ll then search a selection of the UK’s pet insurance providers and give you a list of quotes in price order, with the cheapest pet insurance quotes first.
Looking for something else?
Allie has spent her career helping people quickly understand complicated topics, to help them save money and focus on what matters. With almost 10 years’ experience writing, leading and managing content, she is an expert in personal finance and insurance products.
Stephen Maunder is an experienced personal finance editor, having spent more than a decade working for consumer print and online titles. He won several industry awards for his personal finance features at Which?, before becoming Deputy Editor at Compare the Market.
Amy helps make sure you get the best value when choosing insurance. Thanks to more than four years’ experience at Compare the Market, she understands what people look for, working closely with insurance providers to offer you deals and services that are fair, easy to understand and right for your needs.
Our content is written by a Compare the Market expert, backed by data and enhanced by technology. Find out how we ensure accuracy and quality in our Editorial Guidelines.
What our expert says...
“Boxers are a particularly social breed with boundless energy – the perfect addition to a family and the ideal companion for an active owner. The right insurance policy will help ensure your household is filled with their loyalty and happy-go-lucky nature for years to come.”