K9: Kathrin, how did you experience the DM? What does this start mean for you?

KH: To me, the German Championship IGP in the Boxer Club is special because it's not "just" a sports event, but a competition of a breed association where representatives of this wonderful breed can compete and thereby contribute to the preservation of their working dog properties. It's all about observing dogs, poring over pedigrees, and lots of discussions! Preparing for such championships is demanding for us dog handlers - every athlete knows that - with setbacks, many early mornings, and late nights. But when I'm on the field with my dog, all that fades away, and it's just the two of us. The feeling is indescribable when you've grown together as a team and understand each other perfectly. That alone feels rewarding for all the effort. Winning the title of German Champion 2023 after being the runner-up in 2016 is truly a dream come true!

K9: What were your highlights of this event? Has the Boxer changed since 2016? If yes, in what way?

KH: A highlight for me is always when breeders present their breeding females in the highest examination level at a German Championship. This year, we saw several powerful performances. I'm particularly pleased that we witnessed some great protection services. Observing a previous emphasis on nerve activity, which perhaps made obedience tasks easier, our breeders have successfully bred robust dogs with the required toughness for good protection service. Thus, sport and breeding go hand in hand.

K9: That sounds great! 👍
Where do you see the Boxer in a few years, and where do you see yourself in dog sports?

KH: I sincerely hope we can preserve the Boxer as described in the standard, both in form and its unique character. Current animal welfare laws urge us to breed healthy dogs. If we stick to the standard, the Boxer can meet these requirements. However, we must avoid exaggerations in type. The Boxer must also remain confident and powerful. We don't want Malinois in Boxer clothing; breed breeding aims to maintain and develop the unique traits of each breed. My heart belongs to such dogs. I hope to have a "true" Boxer by my side for many years to come. I trust that efforts from k9andsports and others will ensure we can continue to train, lead, and select our dogs in working dog sports.

K9: Mareike, how was the DM for you? Highlights? Feelings?

ML: I was really looking forward to this year's DM IGP. The rigorous training beforehand paid off, and I achieved great results with my team. I'm especially thrilled about qualifying for the WM 2024 in Germany! What brings me the most joy, however, is sharing this hobby with my family. Thanks to my father, I've learned everything about Boxers, breeding, and our sport since I was young and can now pass this knowledge to my daughter. The Boxer is now present in the next generation!

I'm proud that this year participants were once part of our BK Youth, and now they not only compete in our championships but also support the community and training in their clubs/groups. It's essential to communicate community values, as only together can we preserve and promote our passion for working dog sports and their breeds.

K9: What do you love about the Boxer? Why is it your breed? What challenges in training are typical for the breed?

ML: The Boxer has been a part of our family for over 45 years. They strike a perfect balance between a family and sports dog. Training a Boxer from a young age always presents a challenge. With its strong drive and good core, it makes an excellent sports dog. Other working dog breeds often have a misguided view of the Boxer, mostly because they're primarily family dogs. This year's German Championship showed that Boxers can be trained and led at a high level.

K9: In your opinion, what are the Boxer's strengths in IGP sports?

ML: Especially in protection work, the Boxer is a dog that can withstand high strains due to its toughness and core, without showing any nervous weaknesses.

K9: Thanks! Is there something you wish for this breed in the future?

ML: I wish the Boxer receives the recognition it deserves as a working dog breed across all associations, uniting everyone for our sport. I also hope many youths remain active in our club and stay loyal to the Boxer.
Und das weiterhin viele Jugendliche in unserem Verein so aktiv bleiben und dem Boxer treu bleiben.

K9: What do you love about the Boxer as a family dog?

ML: With its steady nerves, the Boxer is the perfect four-legged partner in any family situation. Their patience and balance around children are truly invaluable.