Cattle Shepherd vs Boerboel Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Working Shepherd or South African Boerboel?

Compare the Cattle Shepherd and Boerboel breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Working Shepherd or a South African Boerboel? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

German Heeler Shepherd, Working Shepherd

South African Boerboel, South African Mastiff

Weight

What is the average weight of Cattle Shepherd and Boerboel?

67.5 pounds ( 31 kg )

16.0 pounds ( 7 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Cattle Shepherd and Boerboel

25.0 inches ( 63.5 cm )

12.0 inches ( 30.5 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Cattle Shepherds or Boerboels hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Cattle Shepherd nor Boerboel are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Cattle Shepherd and Boerboel dogs?

Active
Curious
Loving
Protective
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Affectionate
Obedient
Loyal
Good-natured
Watchful

Confident
Intelligent
Territorial
Dominant
Obedient

Shedding Level

Do Cattle Shepherds shed more than Boerboels, or which breed sheds more, Cattle Shepherds or Boerboels?

Cattle Shepherds are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

Boerboels are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Cattle Shepherd and Boerboel breeds?

German Shepherd, Australian Cattle Dog

Mastiff, Rottweiler, Great Dane

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Cattle Shepherd and Boerboel?

DBR = Designer Breed Registry
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Dog Registry of America Inc.
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Cattle Shepherd and Boerboel breeds first developed?

2000's

1820s

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Cattle Shepherd and Boerboel?

6-10 puppies per pregnancy

A Cattle Shepherd can have a litter of 6-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

10-12 puppies per pregnancy

A Boerboel can have a litter of 10-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Cattle Shepherds are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Boerboels have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

Health Issues

Between Cattle Shepherd and Boerboel, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Cattle Shepherds typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

Boerboels are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Cattle Shepherd and Boerboel breeds?

Hip Dysplasia
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Hip Dysplasia

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Cattle Shepherd and Boerboel?

Deafness
Flea Allergy

Ear Infections
Conjunctivitis
Parasites

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Cattle Shepherd and Boerboel breeds?

X-Rays
Blood Count
Ophthalmologic Examination
Blood Work and Serum Chemistry Tests

Eye
Hip
X-Rays
Physical Examination
Ear

Social Needs

Cattle Shepherd vs Boerboel social needs comparison

Cattle Shepherd has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Boerboel has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Cattle Shepherd or Boerboel?

Cattle Shepherds are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Boerboels have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Cattle Shepherd vs Boerboel?

Roaming urge

Cattle Shepherd vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Cattle Shepherd or Boerboel - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Tolerance of being left alone

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Cattle Shepherds or Boerboels?

The Cattle Shepherd requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

The Boerboel is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

Sensitivity Level

How do Cattle Shepherd and Boerboel compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

Boerboels have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Cattle Shepherd or Boerboel?

Cattle Shepherds are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Boerboels can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

Child Friendly

Do Cattle Shepherds or Boerboels have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Cattle Shepherds make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Boerboels are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Cattle Shepherd or Boerboel?

Cat Friendly

Do Cattle Shepherd or Boerboel breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Cattle Shepherds are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Boerboels are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Cattle Shepherd or Boerboel?

Cattle Shepherds are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Boerboels are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Pet friendly

How do Cattle Shepherd or Boerboel dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Cattle Shepherd or Boerboel?

Cattle Shepherds are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Boerboels are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Cattle Shepherd and Boerboel?

Cattle Shepherds are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Boerboels have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Cattle Shepherds and Boerboels compare?

The Cattle Shepherd is highly intelligent and eager to please, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced dog owners due to its easy trainability.

Boerboels are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.