Boxers were originally bred for bull-baiting, a violent sport where dogs were used as baits to taunt bulls in a large pit. They were developed in Germany in the late 19th century from the now-extinct Bullenbeisser, a dog of English Mastiff descent, and Bulldogs brought in from Great Britain). The Bullenbeisser had been working as a hunting dog for centuries, employed in the pursuit of bear, wild boar, and deer. Its task was to seize the prey and hold it until the hunters arrived. Boxers were also used as butchers helpers, controlling cattle in slaughterhouses. By the 1900s, Boxers were bred to be companions and service dogs. They were used as guard dogs and messengers during World War I, and they have been employed as seeing-eye dogs and alert dogs for people who suffer from epilepsy. Today, Boxers are friendly, lively companions that are popular as family dogs. They are patient and spirited with children, but also protective, making them a popular choice for families).