Mixed Breeds

Boxer Lab Mix: Boxador Breed Information, Temperament, Size & More

Are you considering adopting a Boxer Lab mix? The Boxador is a designer breed made with a Boxer and Labrador Retriever. These pups are energetic, friendly, and fun. Learn more about the Boxador mixed breed, its history, temperament, care, and more.

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Last Updated: November 30, 2023 | 9 min read

Mixed breeds are becoming increasingly popular. More and more people are deciding to rescue their pets from shelters instead of purchasing them from a breeder. Many people are also deciding to purchase mixed breeds like the Boxador from breeders that specifically breed mixes due to their characteristics and appearances.

The Boxador is one of these mixed breeds. Bred from a Boxer and Labrador Retriever, this designer breed has the characteristics of each. However, the mixed breed dog is unique in its own right and has many standout traits that make it unique.

Because this is a mixed breed, the traits each particular Boxador inherits are a flip of the coin. Some Boxador look like Labs, while others look like Boxers. We will try to cover all possible trait combinations in this guide. But remember, each Boxador is unique.

Boxador
    • weight iconWeight70-100 Pounds
    • height iconHeight23-25 Inches
    • lifespan iconLifespan10-12 Years
    • color iconColorsBlack, Brown, Liver, Chocolate, Fawn, Gold, Yellow, White
  • Child Friendliness
  • Canine Friendliness
  • Training Difficulty
  • Grooming Upkeep
  • Breed Health
  • Exercise Needs
  • Puppy Costs

Appearance

The Boxador can vary in appearance quite a bit. They can look like a Boxer or like a Labrador, depending on the exact traits they inherit. Mixed breeds are unpredictable in both appearance and behavior. In some cases, they take after one parent more, and in others, they will seem like a mix of both. Let’s look at each parent breed to get an idea of what a Boxador might look like.

Boxers

Boxers are medium-sized dogs with short skulls and broad heads. They are brachycephalic, which means their muzzles are very “squished.”

A Boxer is typically described as muscular and well-built. They were originally designed for working and guard dogs, and their appearance represents this. Boxers have short backs and strong limbs. Their coat is very tight-fitting and short.

Boxers typically come with fawn or brindle coat colors. They usually have a white underbelly and white feet, though this is not always the case.

Labrador Retrievers

Labradors were also designed to be working dogs. They have a robust and practical build. Built for retrieving wild game, these dogs are very well-built and have strong legs.

These dogs are also medium-sized. Their most distinguishing feature is their dense, weather-resistant coat. Because they were designed to retrieve waterfowl in all conditions, their coat does an excellent job keeping the outside forces away from their skin.

They also have an “otter” tail, which helps them swim should the game they seek fall into the water. Labradors also have powerful jaws but have a very gentle bite. They were bred to retrieve game without damaging it, and even companion Labs have this skill.

Labradors only come in black, yellow, and chocolate.

Boxadors (The Mix)

The Boxador can get traits from either of their parents. They can have a short coat like a Boxer or the longer, denser coat of a Lab. Their coat might have some weather-resistant abilities, though it will likely never be as resistant as a purebred Labrador.

Boxer Lab mixes will likely be medium-sized. However, their exact size can vary quite a bit. They can be anywhere from 70 to 100 pounds or more. Males are typically larger, but this is not always the case.

The Boxador Dog
The Boxador is a medium to large-sized pup.

Their height has less of a variance. They are typically between 23 to 25 inches tall at the shoulder. Some dogs do fall out of this range, however.

The Boxador mixed breed has a much more extensive list of coat colors than its parents. It can be bridle or tan like the Boxer or any of the three Lab colors. Most likely, a mixed-breed dog will have a mix of colors and markings from both parents. The parent’s color does affect the color of the puppies. Looking at the parents is the best way to tell what the puppy’s coat will look like.

Usually, this dog has a very broad head. While some dogs have Boxer or Lab head shapes, it is more likely that their head will be a mix of both parent breeds. Their muzzle might be short like the Boxer parent or more naturally shaped like the Labrador Retriever parents.

Personality

Much like the appearance, the Boxador can inherit the personality of either parent breed. In most cases, a mixed breed will have a variety of behavioral traits from each parent.

While some portion of temperament is genetic, socialization is a crucial part of having a well-adjusted, friendly adult dog. It is essential that you socialize your dog early and often, no matter their genetic predisposition.

Boxers

The Boxer is typically playful and easygoing. While these dogs were bred with guard tendencies, they are not typically aggressive. Still, they bond very closely with their family members and can be suspicious of strangers.

However, they are very social dogs. Winning them over does not take much. They are patient and gentle, especially around children. They are good with most family pets, though they can be wary of new dogs.

Boxers are not typically considered easy to train. They can be quite stubborn. Owners often need to seek out the help of a professional trainer or doggy boot camp, as these pups can be very challenging, especially if an owner is not well-versed in dog or obedience training.

Labrador Retrievers

The Labrador’s amicable temperament is famous. These dogs are very loveable and friendly. Labs are good, mellow companions that get along with almost anyone. Their pleasant demeanor means a Lab will not make the best guard dog.

Labradors are prone to separation anxiety, so it is important that they are not left alone for long periods. Some owners choose to crate their labs to temper destructive behavior due to anxiety.

These dogs are quite easy to train and adapt well to new commands. They are people-pleasers and just want to make you happy.

Boxador Temperament

A Boxer Lab mix can act as either of his parent breeds. They are usually intelligent but can also inherit the Boxer parent’s stubbornness. Their ease of training varies quite a bit. Some of these dogs are very eager to please, while others take some convincing.

Either way, it is essential to start training early and often.

Boxadors are usually playful and energetic. They do well in larger families with plenty of time to play with them. They also have some difficulties with separation anxiety, so training them to be alone should begin early. This designer breed can be quite destructive if left alone for long periods, so it is important to have someone with them until they are appropriately crate-trained.

Boxer Lab mixes should get along with most pets. They do not have powerful prey instincts and will likely get along with cats. They might be somewhat aloof around dogs, but this can be curbed with proper socialization.

Boxador Health

Boxadors are one of the healthier dog breeds out there. Typically, mixed-breed dogs are less prone to disease and defects than purebred dogs. A healthy Boxador has a lifespan of 10 to 12 years on average.

This is due to a phenomenon known as hybrid vigor. Basically, mixed-breed dogs are less likely to inherit detrimental traits from their parents. This is because their parents are more genetically different from each other than a purebred dog’s parents would be.

Nearly every purebred line started through inbreeding, which created many of the genetic flaws we see in purebred dogs today. Mixing breeds together reverses this trend and creates healthier puppies.

With that said, the Boxador is prone to a few health problems. We discuss a few of the most prevalent below.

Hip And Elbow Dysplasia

Both the Boxer and Lab are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Because this is a genetic condition, the Boxador may have problems.

This condition occurs when the elbow or hip bones do not line up correctly, which can cause arthritis and joint problems. Sadly, this can happen at an early age, though it can also be developed later.

This condition is not curable. It is lifelong, though not typically life-threatening. Dogs with dysplasia will need painkillers and other medications throughout their life.

Surgery is sometimes recommended, but there is no clear consensus as to whether this helps. Some dogs have dysplasia that can be somewhat remedied with surgeries, but others likely will not benefit. Some major surgeries include whole sections of bone being removed.

Dysplasia worsens with age. Some dogs are euthanized later in life due to dysplasia when their mobility and quality of life begin to go downhill.

There are tests for dysplasia. Many breeders are now trying to produce lines less genetically disposed to this condition.

Bloat

Bloat is a serious stomach condition that can affect Boxadors. This condition is also called Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) and can occur very suddenly. It often happens after dogs eat or drink a large amount too quickly.

Bloat is most common in larger dogs with deep chests, such as the Boxer. Boxadors with deep chests will be more likely to get bloat than those with shallower chests.

Bloat is a sudden condition that is not completely understood. Simply put, bloat occurs when a dog’s stomach twists and begins filling with gas. We do not know exactly why this happens, but it is detrimental for dogs either way.

Eventually, the dog’s stomach will fill with so much gas that it puts pressure on the diaphragm. This causes breathing difficulties. As this condition progresses, the pressure will begin cutting off the return blood flow to the heart. Extreme pressure can even cause the tissue to die, which can lead to stomach rupture.

Surgery is the only treatment for bloat, and it must happen quickly to be effective. Bloat can present as abdominal pain, anxiety, looking at the abdomen, stretching, attempting to vomit with no success, drooling, and a distended abdomen.

Boxador Maintenance

How much grooming and overall maintenance a Boxador needs depends largely on what traits they inherit from their parents.

Like the Labrador Retriever parent, dogs with more weather-resistant coats will require less grooming, while those with less resistant coats will require more. Dogs with weather-resistant fur also will likely never need a bath.

If a particular Boxador has longer fur, they will likely need more grooming than one with short hair.

Shedding will likely occur seasonally in the fall and spring. When a dog is shedding, they will need to be brushed often. It is usually in the owner’s interest to get their dog groomed at these times, as it will save tons of time on the owner’s part and make the dog more comfortable.

Boxador will need regular maintenance on their teeth and nails, just like every other dog. You must trim their nails regularly and brush their teeth at least three times a week. While most dogs don’t like having their teeth brushed, dental cleaning is vital for their long-term health. There are also various enzymatic toothpastes formulated for dogs that make brushing their teeth extremely easy.

Before adopting a Boxador, ensure you have basic grooming equipment, including a comb, brush, deshedder, hair clippers, and nail clippers.

Boxador Exercise Needs

Boxadors will have a moderate to high exercise need. They are working dogs, so do not expect them to be couch potatoes.

They require at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily. This can be a fast walk, game of frisbee, or other activity that gets your dog breathing heavily. You might want to cut this exercise period into two sessions – one in the morning and one at night.

A Boxador will likely partake in light play throughout the day on top of their regular exercise. This lighter exercise should be dog-led and will likely be no more than a few five-minute sessions throughout the day. These dogs prefer a large, fenced-in backyard that they can run in.

Because these dogs are intelligent, they require a decent amount of mental stimulation. Training your dog is the best way to keep their minds busy and also benefits you. These dogs thrive in obedience classes.

You can also use puzzle toys and simple games like hide-and-seek to tire your dog out. Games are an enjoyable way for younger children to bond with the dog – with adult supervision, of course.

If your Boxador is getting plenty of exercise time but is still acting hyper, they likely need more mental stimulation. Increase the time you spend with them and provide a rotation of toys to keep them busy.

Are Boxer Lab Mixes Good Dogs?

Boxadors can be good dogs for the right family. These mixed dogs are active and do best in families that are active with them. They also prefer a large yard to run in.

They are good with children and other animals as long as they are socialized. Boxadors do not have high prey drives, so cats are not typically a problem.

These dogs can also have trouble with separation anxiety, so it is best if at least one family member is home during the day.

Boxador Price

A Labrador Boxer mix can range in price. As a designer breed, prospective owners may be able to find them from breeders of either parent breed. On average, the price for a healthy Boxador puppy ranges between $500 and $2,000.

These mixes may find their way into animal shelters and breed rescues. A rescue dog can be a perfect match if you want an older pup. Adopting rescue animals is a wonderful way to save lives and ease the burden on overcrowded shelters. Check with your veterinarian or other pet owners for local rescue groups.

Are You Ready To Adopt A Dog?

While all dog breeds are lovable, not all make the best pets. How well a dog does in a new home depends on the environment as well as their temperament. Before bringing home a new puppy, research the breed, health, and care needs. Consider the expectations and responsibilities that come with a new pup. Be sure to have everything ready beforehand, like dog beds, crates, healthy food, toys, and treats. Having a dog is a wonderful experience but also a significant responsibility. Owners must provide proper care and medical attention. Picking out a veterinarian before you adopt can help make the adoption process much smoother.

What are your favorite mixed-breed dogs? We want to hear all about your experience with designer dogs in the comments.

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10 Comments

  1. Our Andy came from a local shelter. He was about 2 years old when we got him. He was found a runaway/stray and the police officer that brought him to the shelter was named Andy…the name stayed with the dog. Andy was a bit of a challenge at first. We live on a 7 acre wooded tract in the country. He had freedom…and he would disappear for hours at a time if not constantly watched. It took a few months to finally break him of that habit. He is about ten years old now and has been a truly fine dog. Turning gray around the muzzle but still has the energy of a puppy. Never had a single health problem…our vet just marvels at him. He loves foraging through the woods or tall grassy fields…he could have been a great hunting dog with the right training. He also likes to play in the snow during winter. He still has exceptional hearing and eyesight. Very powerful and a high leaper. He is a great watch dog but has never bitten anyone the whole time we’ve had him. He absolutely loves people and is a favorite with the mailman and all the package delivery people. They all carry treats for him now. He seems to be fearless in almost any situation…but hates thunderstorms. At the first rumble of thunder he is either under the bed or in a lap…at 75 lbs that’s one big baby! We also have two cats, they all get along just fine. Best dog we have ever had. I’d have another one in a minute.

  2. We got Jak from no kill shelter when he was 6 weeks old he is now 5 years old. The most loving dog we have ever had luvs people and kids very smart understands way too many words

  3. Theresa Johnson

    I have a 4 year old boxador girl I bought off Craigslist at 8 weeks. I just had a Wisdom Panel done because she’s just over 100 pounds and the vet (and everyone else we meet) swears she must have something bigger in her because she’s so large and not obese. Nope. 50% lab (mom was a very small stature silver lab) and 50% boxer.
    She is amazing though very very protective. She’s never bitten anyone/anything but I live in a border suburb of Minneapolis and I’m totally comfortable walking with her at all hours. I’ve experienced people crossing the street when we walk towards them. She’s skeptical of everyone but amazing with our young grandchildren and elderly parents. She’s an absolute love.
    She’s my first ever dog and when it’s her time I’ll def find the same breed combo. As a pup she destroyed things but as an adult no. She sits in the back of the couch like a cat and waits for us to come home.

  4. I have a 12 year old Boxer Lab named Samson. He is the sweetest and best dog I’ve ever had except; he is very protective of me and if anyone comes in my yard he doesn’t know he will attack them. He has bitten 3 people and most recently despite a Beware of the Dog sign displayed on my gate the Amazon driver came in my yard and he attacked her. I’m up in age now myself and despite my deep love was wondering if I need to get rid of him. The thought makes me so sad but I can’t have him hurting people. What if it’s a child? Any suggestions?

    1. Michelle Schenker

      Find a local behavior therapist or trainer asap to help but you may be facing a tough decision. We wish you and Samson the best.

  5. Sharon O'Leary

    Bailey thinks she is a lap dog. She loves everyone and will play ball 24-7 if I would keep throwing it. I had to get her out of the UPS truck. She jumped in with her ball to play with the driver. He happily got out to throw her ball for her.

  6. I have a Boxador, his name is Jax he is the very lovable like his Dad the Boxer and very smart like his Mom the Lab. he is very vocal and protective of me. He did like to chew up stuff as a puppy, but now he only does it out of spite when I leave him alone.

    It is so strange that when I have my uniform on he knows I am going to work and he is okay, but let me walk out that door in plain clothes and he finds something of mine and shreds it. but overall the boxador is an amazing breed.

    1. Hi Rachele! Thanks for stopping by to share your experience with your pup! We love the Boxador and glad you do too!

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