Boerboel

Dog Breed Profile

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Boerboel History

The Boerboel is a mastiff-type of guard and attack dog. The dog is muscular, with a broad head, deep chest, and short, powerful legs. The coat is dense, short, and rough, and is usually fawn or brindle in color. The head is broad, with massive jaws and a large, square muzzle. The eyes are medium in size, almond-shaped, and dark brown in color. The ears are set high, are triangular in shape, and are medium sized. The tail is docked, and is carried low. The Boerboel is descended from the Molosser-type dogs of South Africa, which were brought to the region by Dutch settlers. These dogs are believed to have been bred for guarding sheep, but also worked as a guardian for homesteads and children. The South African people eventually started calling these dogs “Farm Dogs” or “Boerdogs”, and the name “Boerboel” eventually stuck. Today, the Boerboel is South Africa’s most popular mastiff-breed, and is used as a farm dog, guard dog, and attack dog.

Time of Origin

1820s

Country of Origin

South Africa

Boerboel Physical Characteristics

The Boerboel is a very large, very muscular, powerful, and agile working breed that typically stands between 27 and 32 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 100 and 200 pounds. They have a very thick and wide head, a heavy neck, and a powerful, thick, and broad chest. Their short, coarse, and harsh coat is white with black, red, or brindle markings. They have round, almond-shaped eyes. They are a confident, courageous, and assertive breed of dog.

Eye Colors

Unknown

Nose Colors

Unknown

Coat Colors

Unknown

Height Range

Male Height Range: 24 – 28 inches

Female Height Range: 23 – 27 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 154 – 200 lbs

Female Weight Range: 150 – 190 lbs

Boerboel Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

10-12 yrs

Boerboel Health Concerns

Hip Dysplasia, Ear Infections, Conjunctivitis, Parasites

Boerboel Temperament and Behaviour

The Boerboel is a large, powerful, and muscular breed that is known to be a dominant, dominant, and protective dog. They are natural protectors of their owners and are suspicious of strangers. They are instinctive guardians and can make effective guard dogs.

Boerboel Activity Requirements

Boerboels are a muscular, athletic dog with a protective disposition. They were originally bred to be guard dogs and they still retain this instinct. They can make excellent watchdogs and loyal companions. The Boerboel is a high-energy, working breed that requires lots of physical and mental activity. They are happiest when they have a job to do. A job can be as simple as a daily walk or as complex as keeping them busy working with livestock or in obedience. If you are looking for a high-energy, working dog, the Boerboel is an excellent choice. They are happiest when they have a purpose in life and being around their owners. They are not recommended for people who have little time to devote to their dog. While they don’t require hours and hours of training, they do require regular walks and socialization.

Miles Per Day

Unknown

Activity Per Day

Unknown

Daily Food

Unknown

Kennel Club Recognition

American Kennel Club

Recognized by the American Kennel Club

Boerboel is part of the Working group.

Visit the American Kennel Club website.

The Kennel Club

Not Recognized

Boerboel is part of the Unclassified group.

Visit the Kennel Club website.

Australian National Kennel Council

Not Recognized

Boerboel is part of the Unclassified group.

Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.

Canadian Kennel Club

Not Recognized

Boerboel is part of the Unclassified group.

Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.