Boerboel
also known as South African Boerboel, South African Mastiff
History
The Boerboel, also known as the South African Mastiff, is a large, powerful breed of dog that has a rich history dating back to the 17th century in South Africa. The breed was created by Dutch settlers in the Cape of Good Hope, who sought to develop a dog that could protect their farms and families from wild animals and hostile indigenous tribes.
The breed was first officially recognized by the South African Kennel Union in 1971, and later by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2016. The name "Boerboel" is Afrikaans for "farmer's dog," reflecting the breed's origins as a working dog on South African farms.
The breed's development can be traced back to the 17th century, when Dutch settlers in the Cape of Good Hope began crossing their own dogs with local indigenous breeds, such as the Hottentot Hunting Dog and the Khoikhoi dog. These crosses produced a powerful, fearless dog that was well-suited to the harsh conditions of the South African frontier.
Over the centuries, the Boerboel has played an important role in the history of South Africa. The breed was used by Boer farmers to protect their families and property from wild animals and hostile tribes during the early days of European settlement in the region. They were also used by the British and Boer armies during the Anglo-Boer War of 1899-1902.
Breed Information
Is Boerboel a purebred?
Purebred
What were Boerboels originally used for?
Protection, guarding farm
How Long Do Boerboels Live? What is average life expectancy for a Boerboel? How long can Boerboels live?
10-12 years
The average Boerboel lifespan is somewhere between 10-12 years, provided they aren't beset by any exceptional health issues or injuries.
Boerboel Height & Weight
How big is a full grown Boerboel?
| Height | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average | 6 months | 12 months | 18 months | |
| Male | 24-28 inches (61 - 71.1 cm) | 8.0 inches (20.3 cm) | 11.0 inches (27.9 cm) | 12.0 inches (30.5 cm) |
| Female | 23-27 inches (58.4 - 68.6 cm) | 8.0 inches (20.3 cm) | 10.0 inches (25.4 cm) | 11.0 inches (27.9 cm) |
| Weight | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average | 6 months | 12 months | 18 months | |
| Male | 154-200 pounds (70 - 91 kg) | 11.5 pounds (5 kg) | 13.0 pounds (6 kg) | 16.0 pounds (7 kg) |
| Female | 150-190 pounds (68 - 86 kg) | 9.5 pounds (4 kg) | 12.0 pounds (5 kg) | 14.5 pounds (7 kg) |
Do Boerboels get fat easily?
The Boerboel is a breed that has an average risk of becoming obese. Daily walks and a balanced diet of quality dry dog food can help maintain a healthy weight. An active lifestyle and monitoring weight regularly is recommended.
Are Boerboels Hypoallergenic?
No
Unfortunately, the Boerboel is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.
What is a Boerboel personality? What are Boerboel dogs best known for?
Confident
Intelligent
Territorial
Dominant
Obedient
Are Boerboels heavy shedders? How Much Does a Boerboel Shed?
Boerboel dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Boerboel. This will remove loose hair and keep his coat growing in the same direction.
What is the watchdog ability of a Boerboel dog?
The Boerboel dog is one of the best choice if you want a good watchdog. This breed will keep watch over you and your family at all times. This breed takes this task seriously and will typically perform its guarding duty with little to no training. This dog will require obedience training, or you can consider guard dog training to sharpen its skills.
Breed History
Where do Boerboels come from?
South Africa
What are Boerboels descended from?
Mastiff, Rottweiler, Great Dane
What organizations or kennel clubs recognize/register the Boerboel breed?
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Dog Registry of America Inc.
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
When were Boerboels first bred? How old is the Boerboel breed?
1820s
What Breed Group is a Boerboel?
Working (AKC:2015)
Boerboel Appearance
How many puppies can a Boerboel have in a litter? How many puppies can a Boerboel have in her first litter?
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.
Boerboel dogs generally adapt well to changes in lifestyle and different living environments, but it is considered as an average level of adaptability compared to other breeds.
Boerboel Health Issues
Do Boerboels have a lot of health problems?
The Boerboel is a breed of dog that is known to have a higher frequency of health issues compared to other breeds. These issues can range from minor to serious, and regular check-ups with a veterinarian are essential in order to identify and address any potential problems as early as possible.
What are the major health concerns to be aware of when owning a Boerboel?
Hip Dysplasia
What are the less significant issues to keep in mind when it comes to Boerboels?
Ear Infections
Conjunctivitis
Parasites
What are the occasional tests recommended for Boerboel breed?
Eye
Hip
X-Rays
Physical Examination
Ear
Boerboel Needs and Activities
Do Boerboels have a lot of energy?
For those who lead a balanced lifestyle, Boerboels may be a good choice as they have an average energy level.
Do Boerboels need socialization? How social are Boerboels?
Boerboels have average social needs compared to other breeds. They are known to be less active and independent than other breeds, and they are content with spending time alone and with their human family.
How much exercise should Boerboels get?
The Boerboel dog needs significant physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are also well-suited for those who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy activities such as running, hiking, or other outdoor pursuits.
How much sleep should a Boerboel have? Do Boerboels sleep a lot?
The Boerboel breed is known for its moderate energy levels and normal sleep patterns, typically sleeping around 12-14 hours per day.
Does a Boerboel drool a lot?
The Boerboel is a breed that is known for drooling quite a lot. Drooling is the unintentional flow of saliva outside of the mouth and can be a normal characteristic of certain breeds. Boerboel is one of them. If you dislike the presence of drool and the potential for saliva spots on your clothes, it may be best to consider a different dog breed. Drooling is a normal part of their physiology but it's important to consider if it's something you can handle.
How much does it bark?
Boerboel dogs tends to bark less frequently than most other dogs. They tend to be quieter and less vocal than other breeds. They may only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner of something or to communicate something. They do not bark excessively, and may not bark as much as other dogs in certain situations, such as when they are left alone.
Do Boerboels exhibit aggressive behavior to safeguard their home and territory? Do they possess a natural tendency to guard?
These dogs are known for being extremely protective and make excellent guard dogs. They possess a strong instinct to defend their territory and owners and have a high level of vigilance and alertness.
Are Boerboels mouthy?
What is the likelihood of a Boerboel running away? Do they have a tendency to explore or wander frequently?
Do Boerboel dogs have a high prey drive?
What level of grooming should be provided for a Boerboel?
The Boerboel is a breed of dog that does not require extensive grooming.
Costs
Boerboel Characteristic
How intelligent is a Boerboel?
The Boerboel have below the average degree of obedience intelligence among other breeds. However, calling them “dumb dogs” is unfair. Where Boerboels lack in obedience & working intelligence, they make up for it with their keen ability to understand human emotions.
How sensitive is a Boerboel dog?
Boerboel dogs have average emotions and are adaptable to different situations, not requiring extra care like sensitive breeds do.
Are Boerboel dogs affectionate?
Do Boerboel do well in apartments? Are Boerboels good indoor dogs?
It's not recommended to keep the Boerboel in an apartment, but this breed make good apartment dogs as long as they get to spend a good amount of time outside of the apartment. Boerboels living in apartments will need plenty of physical exercise and stimulation throughout the day to remain happy and well-behaved.
Are Boerboels good with kids? Are Boerboels good around children?
Boerboels are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.
Are Boerboels good for elderly?
Are Boerboels good with cats? How friendly Boerboels are toward cats?
Boerboels are below average friendly toward cats. But with the right training and socialization, Boerboels can be good with cats,
Do Boerboel dogs get along with other dogs? Are Boerboels OK with other dogs?
Boerboels are below average dog friendly dogs. Boerboel dogs may not always get along well with other dogs they have not been raised with,
How do Boerboel dogs interact with other pets? Are they considered pet-friendly?
Are Boerboels friendly with strangers?
Boerboels are below average friendly around strangers. Keen of eye and sharp of tongue, most Boerboels are very quick to announce strangers at the door. Once the visitor comes in, some Boerboels will be friendly and outgoing. But many others have the standoffish or suspicious towards strangers.
Do Boerboels like to play? Are Boerboels playful?
Boerboels have an average level of playfulness. The Boerboels, like other dogs, like to play. But they are not the most playful dog breed.
Are Boerboel easily trained?
Boerboel dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Rarely barks
This breed is known for being relatively silent, making it a good option if you're looking for a quieter dog. - Strength
Boerboels are a large, muscular breed that are known for their strength and power. - Protective
They have a strong protective instinct and can make excellent guard dogs. - Loyal
They are highly loyal to their families and make great companions.
Cons
- Not Hypoallergenic
People prone to allergies may have a reaction to Boerboels, as they are not considered a hypoallergenic breed. - Size
Boerboels are a large breed and require a lot of space to move around. - Not Apartment Friendly
Boerboel may not be the best choice for indoor pets. - Not suitable for office environment
Boerboels are not generally considered to be office-friendly dogs. - Not cat-friendly
It is unlikely that a Boerboel will be comfortable around cats. - Health issues
Boerboels, similar to other breeds, may be at risk for certain health problems, including Hip Dysplasia, Ear Infections, Conjunctivitis and Parasites.