Occasionally I get messages from fans of Lucy and also asked questions about breeding our white boxer from friends. I'm sorry to say that although the white boxer is not a rare occurrence, breeding of the white boxer is not sanctioned by any kennel group.
In the past, most kennels and breeders would put down a white pup because they do not comply with the standards of the boxer breed. Other reasons for not wanting to breed a white are the associated physical problems that the boxer may encounter. It is reported that the gene that produces the white flash in the boxer breed is associated with deafness. A white is actually a fawn or brindle boxer with a heavy white flash. Nearly 18% of all white boxers have hearing loss in one or both ears which makes them a special needs dog. Luckily for us our white ""Lucy"" does not display any hearing problems at this time.
More health issues include increased chance of sunburn and skin cancer. When we take Lucy out on sunny days we have to mindful of this fact. They do make sunscreen for dogs and if you have a white short haired dog of any kind I'd recommend that you put sunscreen or sunblock on your dog. This will cut down on the chances of skin cancer tremendously.
Terri and I love the boxer breed. I don't think we will ever own any other type of dog. We are especially attracted to the white, but to own one comes with some tough rules. Don't breed a white boxer is the number one rule! If you are lucky enough to acquire a white from a litter of pups from a reputable breeder you will almost certainly have to sign a spay and neuter contract. I think the best way to acquire any dog is through adoption however...
Please do not let anything I've written here deter you from owning a white boxer. They make great family pets and therapy dogs. Best of all is the number one characteristic that you will get with any boxer and that is the heart of a clown, but that for another article.
Bob Novotney
Author of ""Lucy the White Boxer Dog Blog""
http://bnovotney-lucythewhiteboxerdog.blogspot.com