South African Boerboel

African Boerboel, South African Boerboel, South African Mastiff

Purpose

Protection

guarding farm

Breed Type : Pure Breeds

Breed Size: Not Set

The Boerboel is a reliable breed recognized for its robust protective nature. This dog is fiercely loyal, ready to defend its family and home when its owners are away, and will not allow strangers to enter. Energetic and playful, Boerboels enjoy spending time with children, engaging in games of chase and running around for long stretches. They show impressive patience with kids, welcoming their playful antics and relishing the attention they receive. While they are devoted and affectionate towards their owners, it is crucial for them to have a strong, authoritative figure to set boundaries and ensure they obey commands. Due to their strength and powerful jaws, having a capable leader during their developmental stages is vital to prevent any potential risks to others. When it comes to guests, Boerboels require a proper introduction before they will accept them.

South African Boerboel: Breed Origin

The name "Boerboel" is believed to originate from the Afrikaans words "boer," which means farmer, and "bul," meaning big. Thus, the term essentially refers to a large farm dog. While the exact origins of this breed are somewhat ambiguous, it is thought to have developed from dogs that British, French, and Dutch settlers brought to South Africa. Notably, Jan van Riebeeck, a Dutch settler, is recorded to have introduced a bullenbijter, a dog similar to a Mastiff, to the Cape region. As more settlers arrived in 1820, they brought Bulldogs, Mastiffs, and various other breeds with them. In 1938, the De Beer mining company imported a Bullmastiff to safeguard their diamond mines, acquiring a champion from the Hottentots, which played a role in the Boerboel's evolution. Referred to as Boer dogs, these animals were spread by the Voortrekkers during the Great Trek, and breeding practices persisted throughout this time. Historical accounts reveal that after the Anglo Boer War in 1902, Boer dogs were crossbred with the English long-legged Bulldog and Bullmastiff in the 1950s. In Zimbabwe, formerly known as Rhodesia, Boerboels became quite popular among settlers. Given South Africa's closeness to Zimbabwe, the breed gained recognition as people frequently traveled between the two areas. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Boerboel as part of the working group in 2015.

South African Boerboel: Breed Appearance

The Boerboel is a formidable and sturdy breed, known for its impressive musculature and nimble movements. Males are generally larger and exhibit a more robust physique, while females tend to have a more refined appearance. A key characteristic of this breed is its head, which features a short, square, and muscular shape that is broad and flat on top. Although many Boerboels have a black facial mask, this trait is not consistent across all individuals. Their eyes are captivating, positioned horizontally, and usually come in various shades of brown, often darker than their coat, with well-pigmented eyelids enhancing their expression. The muzzle is black and features large, wide nostrils, with the nasal bone measuring between 8 to 10 cm in length, broad at the base and tapering slightly towards the tip. The upper lip is substantial but does not extend below the lower jaw. Boerboels have powerful jaws that house a complete set of 42 well-formed white teeth, exhibiting a scissors bite. Their ears are medium-sized, V-shaped, and set high and wide on the head. The neck is strong and muscular, leading to a straight back and a well-defined chest. The tail is short and positioned high on the body. With perfectly vertical front legs and slightly smaller hind paws, this breed exemplifies muscular strength. When alert, the dog displays moderate wrinkles across its forehead.

South African Boerboel: Care Routine

The Boerboel breed is quite easy to care for in terms of grooming and thrives on human interaction. Their coat is short, dense, and glossy, making it easy to maintain with just a monthly bath and occasional dips to keep them looking their best. With regular grooming, they generally shed at a moderate level. These dogs love to engage in play with their families, especially enjoying games of fetch. While their strong jaws can easily puncture a ball, they are just as happy to play with a deflated one. It’s important to have a securely fenced yard for them, as they tend to be cautious around strangers and are protective of their territory. Although your Boerboel may enjoy relaxing by your side, they need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Due to their size and temperament, they are not ideal for apartment living and require ample space to run and play.

South African Boerboel: Behavior & Temperament

The Boerboel stands out as an outstanding protector, always prepared to defend its family, home, or business with steadfast bravery. This breed exhibits a gentle and patient demeanor towards children and smaller pets, as long as they pose no threat to the household. They are lively and playful, thriving on social interaction. Boerboels are deeply loyal to their families, treasuring every moment spent together. When it comes to guests, these dogs will only allow entry to familiar faces. It’s essential to introduce newcomers properly to help the Boerboel accept them. Renowned for their intelligence and ability to learn, Boerboels need a strong leader to guide them from their puppy years into adulthood. The owner must assert their authority firmly to prevent the dog from dashing out the door when it opens. Originally bred for protection, Boerboels take their roles seriously, which requires establishing clear rules and boundaries. With their powerful jaws and robust physique, they must be trained to respond to commands; otherwise, allowing them to determine who is a friend or foe could result in perilous situations. With a capable and influential owner, Boerboels can become loving and devoted family companions.

South African Boerboel: Play & Exercise

Have to know about South African Boerboel

Cups Per Day

0.0 Cups

Daily Activity

0 Minutes

Average Lifespan

11 Years

Origin

1820s

Type

Pure Breeds

Size

Not Set

Origin Country

South Africa

Brush Frequency

Daily

Coat Texture

Straight

Register your South African Boerboel

Your kids have been begging for a pet forever, and you've recently decided that it's time for your family to get a new addition -- a dog! While everyone is excited for the new arrival, you're wondering if you need to have a dog license. How much does it cost? Is it required? Where do you get one?