The Marquis Had a Very Serious Face and a Very Big Collar
A wide white ruffled collar rises around the Boxer's neck like a lace dinner plate, and above it sits a wonderfully serious brindle face with dark stripes on tan. His coat is midnight blue with gold leaf embroidery on the shoulders and chest, and the background is a deep brown with only a hint of a candle at the lower edge. The marquis keeps his chin level and his brow slightly furrowed, which somehow only adds to the dignity.
Boxers are known for contrasts like this one. They look tough, yet they are playful, loyal and often silly well into adulthood, and many love to leap and wiggle, sometimes called the kidney bean dance. They tend to bond closely with their families and do best when they live indoors with them. Because of their short muzzles, Boxers can overheat easily, so exercise in the cool hours of the day and offer shade and water in warm weather. They are also energetic, which means regular walks and games help prevent chewing and mischief. Ask your vet about heart health and other breed-specific checkups, as some Boxers are prone to certain conditions.
The ruffled collar may be stiff, but the heart underneath is surely made of marshmallow. Underneath all the gold and lace, he is likely one wriggly leap away from knocking over the candle stand out of pure joy.
