Black and Tan Coonhound vs Boxer

Choosing between Black and Tan Coonhound and Boxer? These two are closely matched on size and energy, so your decision comes down to the finer points — grooming, shedding, trainability and how each fits your household. Below we break down exactly how the two breeds compare on the things that shape daily life with a dog, so you can see which one is the better fit for your home, family and routine.

Black and Tan Coonhound vs Boxer: full comparison

TraitBlack and Tan CoonhoundBoxer
SizeLargeLarge
Energy levelHighHigh
TrainabilityMediumMedium
FriendlinessVery HighVery High
Good with childrenVery HighVery High
Grooming needsLowVery Low
SheddingMediumMedium
BarkingVery HighMedium
ProtectivenessLowMedium
AdaptabilityMediumHigh
Typical lifespan12 years11 years
HypoallergenicNoNo

Key differences at a glance

Size and living space

The Black and Tan Coonhound is a large dog that is happiest with space indoors and regular access to a yard. By comparison, the Boxer is a large dog that is happiest with space indoors and regular access to a yard. Because they are a similar size, neither has a clear space advantage — both will suit the same kind of home.

Exercise and energy needs

The Black and Tan Coonhound needs a good deal of daily exercise — long walks, running or vigorous play. The Boxer needs a good deal of daily exercise — long walks, running or vigorous play. Their exercise needs are broadly the same, so this is unlikely to be a deciding factor.

Grooming and shedding

The Black and Tan Coonhound asks for a light brush once or twice a week and sheds a moderate amount, with heavier seasonal moults. The Boxer takes almost no grooming, since the odd brush keeps it tidy and sheds a moderate amount, with heavier seasonal moults. If low upkeep matters to you, factor this in — the difference adds up over a dog's lifetime.

Temperament, training and family life

The Black and Tan Coonhound picks things up at a fair pace with steady practice, barks a great deal, which is worth considering with neighbors close by and is renowned for its patience and gentleness with children. The Boxer picks things up at a fair pace with steady practice, barks a fair amount, usually for a reason and is renowned for its patience and gentleness with children. On guarding instinct, Black and Tan Coonhound is not a natural guard and greets visitors warmly, whereas Boxer will let you know someone is at the door without being aggressive.

Which is better for…

Which should you choose?

Choose the Black and Tan Coonhound if you want a longer-lived breed.

Choose the Boxer if you prefer a quieter dog, you want a more protective, watchful guardian, or you want a more adaptable dog.

Not sure which breed is right for you?

Take the free DoggyQ quiz and get a personalized match from 321 breeds based on your lifestyle, home and preferences — plus a full report on what living with that breed actually costs.

Find your perfect match

Frequently asked questions

Is the Black and Tan Coonhound or the Boxer better for families with children?
Both the Black and Tan Coonhound and the Boxer are considered good with children when properly socialized and supervised.
Which sheds more, the Black and Tan Coonhound or the Boxer?
The Black and Tan Coonhound and Boxer shed a similar amount (medium).
Which is easier to train, the Black and Tan Coonhound or the Boxer?
Both breeds have comparable trainability. Consistency and positive reinforcement work well for each.
Is Black and Tan Coonhound or Boxer bigger?
Black and Tan Coonhound and Boxer are a similar size (Large).
Which barks more, Black and Tan Coonhound or Boxer?
Black and Tan Coonhound tends to be the more vocal of the two, so Boxer is the quieter choice.
Which is better for apartment living, Black and Tan Coonhound or Boxer?
For apartment or apartment living, Boxer has the edge, thanks to its size, quieter nature and more manageable energy.

Related guides