Boxers, whose regal looks belie their silly natures, are a peppy and excitable breed that warms the home of many families. These mid-sized dogs have been tasked with many jobs, none of them quite as important as best friend. Read on to learn more about these multitalented, personality packed pooches.

They’re Ready for a (Fake) Heavyweight Match

It’s not entirely clear where the name boxer comes from. There is a theory that it’s derived from their ancestor the Bullenbeisser, while another possible explanation is that the name is based on the word boxl, a former name for slaughterhouses where boxers often worked. A more entertaining theory is that the moniker comes from the fact that the breed likes to jump up and mimic boxing when it’s playing. Whether or not the last explanation is the right one, most of these dogs do enjoy fake boxing, something owners may want to discourage when their pups are young enough.

They’re Really Lovers, Not Fighters

Boxers are unlikely to make a career out of boxing anyway. That’s because, at heart, they’re lovers, not fighters. They will protect their loved ones, but their main priority is lots of cuddles and snuggles, particularly with their favorite kids. If their families are away for too long, these pups aren’t too happy about it and may take their sadness out on some items around the house.

Their Ancestors Are Older Than the Roman Empire

Though the boxer breed as we know it wasn’t officially in existence until 19^th century Germany, their forebears have been around much longer. Boxers are among many breeds that descended from wartime dogs way back in the Assyrian Empire, many hundred years before the Roman Empire began. In more contemporary times, boxers have also been used for military tasks, as well other jobs, including in slaughterhouses, herding, and hunting.

They Could Probably Book a Standup Gig

While they’ve traditionally held more serious jobs, boxers could also get a silly one pretty easily if they tried. Their resumes are packed with skills perfect for a standup comedian. They’re goofy, mischievous, clever, a bit stubborn, and natural entertainers. Their expressive faces could do all the talking for them when telling a story, too. And crowd work, with their friendliness? That wouldn’t be a problem!

They May Appreciate a Sweater

Their on-stage attire could be a cardigan, too, because colder weather doesn’t agree with the boxer. They have a short coat that provides little insulation, so wrapping them up in a sweater may be just what they need, for their wellbeing and the style factor. On the flip side, as a brachycephalic breed, boxers also struggle with the heat, so these pooches are definitely ready for sweater weather when the time comes.

They Can Be Loud Bedmates

Their brachycephalic, or short-snouted, nature also means that if you’re sharing a bed with a boxer, they may keep you up at night. Boxers are among the dog breeds that are prone to snoring, due to their short snouts impacting their airways. For some extra fun, they’re also prone to drool, which may just soak your pillow a bit, but it’s not like humans don’t do the same thing sometimes!

They’re Good Service Dogs

Due to boxers’ fondness for and attachment with people, they tend to do well as service dogs. This can range from guiding the visually impaired to providing comfort as therapy dogs. They’ve also had plenty of success at predicting seizures in people living with epilepsy.

They’re Often White

Though white boxers have traditionally been thought of as less than, they’re quite common and much the same as any other boxer. It’s estimated that about 25% of boxers are born all white. These dogs are slightly more prone to deafness and actually require more sun protection (time for stylish sun shirts to compliment the cardigans!), but apart from that, the silly, clever, affectionate nature of the boxer is the same, regardless of the coat color.

They Have Their Own Dance

When you take your boxer outside, they’ll likely enjoy it, as they are a very energetic breed that loves to exercise. The outdoors also provide a good share of the mental stimulation these smart pups require. Even with all that exercise, though, boxers are natural performers in yet another way: They love to dance. They also have very specific moves: Boxers get extra wiggly to something known as a kidney bean dance. Just more reason to have dog-friendly weddings.

They Could Be Ticketed in a School Zone

School zones generally call for cars to keep to speeds of 20 miles per hour when kids are on site. Boxers could get in a lot of trouble with their speeds in these areas, as they can top out at 45 miles per hour. They’ve obviously got to get to their humans for a cuddle really quickly.