Gait

Viewed from the side, proper front and rear angulation is manifested in a smoothly efficient, level-backed, ground covering, energetic stride with powerful drive emanating from a freely operating rear. The gait should be effortless with economy of motion. Excessive energy in movement is not preferred. The front legs do not contribute impelling power. Adequate "reach" should be evident to prevent interference, overlap or "sidewinding." The Boxer does not truly single track as his front is wider than his rear. The legs are parallel or slightly wider in the rear until gaiting narrows the track in proportion to increasing speed, tracking "relatively" true with the front. The legs should come under the body, but should never cross. A line drawn from the joining of the shoulder and the upper arm projected to the hip joint should be a horizontal line to the ground as the dog moves. A line from the mid-line of the shoulder down through the leg should remain nearly straight on both forward and rear reachings of the forelegs. The Boxer’s rump should not roll and the hind feet should "dig in." As the speed of a Boxer’s gait increases to its fullest, the head should lower nearly to a horizontal line with the back and should never be carried in an extremely high (goose neck) posture at any speed except at a sudden stop.