Expert: Jannie Balliett - 2/14/2008

Question
i have a 4 year old boxer that has chronic allergies has already had hip dyspepsia which has been fixed and the vet also said he has a curved spine.  I found him on the side of the road he weighed 3lbs at 8 weeks old.  He is as happy as can be now but i was just wondering what is the average life expectancy

Answer
Sophia,

Bless you for rescuing this Boxer!

Chronic allergies in Boxers are common. Both environmental and food allergies. Feed him a good, natural dog food with no corn or corn meals and by-products, and no other meat by-products. I personally use Diamond brand, but whatever brand you research and choose, be sure it's like a good quality lamb and rice (brown rice) and/or (alternating for variety and health) chicken and rice.

As far as environmental allergies, the doctor can prescribe a good allergy med or use Benadryl. Ask your vet for dosage amount for the weight, and how often.

Thank goodness you had his hip fixed. Bless you for that too. Be sure to watch for future "pain" signs and walking difficulties too. The vet can prescribe meds for that. Constant changing positions and acting uncomfortable is a major sign. Provide a soft, supportive dog bed for him, or if you are like me, let him sleep with you! Comfort to his joints will prolong his life.

You might talk to your vet about supplements for bone and joint health. This can be given orally or in food daily. It will help his joints become healthier and less pain.

Average life span is 10 years, but it is not uncommon to go to 13 years. It is sad for Boxer lovers to love a breed that has a shorter life span than other breeds.

Good diet as mentioned, plenty of fresh water and perdiactric  electrolytes daily (can be mixed in his water too to last longer), bone and joint supplements daily, regular visits to the vet, lots of TLC, and he can live to 13.

I pray he does for his sake and you and your families'.

Again, bless you all for helping him, rescuing him, and loving him!