Ty Brown

The Boerboel is a large, powerful and intelligent working dog. Known for being good with children it is still incredibly important to engage in heavy socialization and training from a young age.

Being such a powerful dog this breed is prone to being dominant and imposing. Unless the owner becomes a leader from the beginning this breed will take over and rule the roost. As such, this may not be a dog for the first time dog owner. Rather, this dog excels in a home where the owner is committed to appropriate training and control.

Origin:

The Boerboel is a large working molossoid breed from South Africa. The name came from the Afrikaans/Dutch word meaning "farmer's dog". The dog was also bred to guard homesteads.

The true origin of the breed is uncertain but it is believed that the dog derived from interbreeding of indigenous African species with breeds brought from the European settlers.

The refining of the breed is still on the developing stage.

Appearance and Abilities:

The Boerboel is a heavy mastiff breed with a height of about 25 to 28 inches for males, and 23 to 26 inches for females and I can weigh from 100 to 200 pounds. It is robust with a solid build. Well balanced, substantial and powerful in appearance, the Boerboel is well-muscled and intimidating.

It has a powerful neck and moves with purpose and ample agility. The head is large but proportional to the body. It gives an overall impression of substance, strength, power, and physical ability.

Commonly, they have sand-colored coats with black masks. However, shades may vary its coat colors may come in brindle, brown, red-brown, red, fawn, yellow-cream, white-cream, dilute, and black. These are all accepted colors. A deep mask is preferred for all.

Temperament and Tendencies:

They are very obedient and very smart and they are confident and very dominant. However, it requires human leadership and companionship. If left alone for regular extended periods, they can become destructive, reckless and dangerous.

Boerboels are highly protective but not aggressive. They also possess strong territorial instincts making them perfect for guard work, particularly in domestic situations. They are fearless and display self-assurance and they are responsive to the needs of their families.

They are very playful and they enjoy a good game of fetch.

Training and Care:

Boerboels are not recommended for apartment life. A large fenced yard is necessary to keep your Boerboel happy. It should be stressed that Boerboels should not be left alone too often and too long. They are very protective and sometimes do not take too well to strangers.

Socialization is crucial for Boerboels. This will limit their aggressiveness brought about by their strong watchdog instincts. Owners should always supervise them if strangers are present.

The main goal in training this dog is to achieve a pack leader position. It is a natural instinct for a dog to have an order in their pack. When humans live with dogs, they become their part of their pack. The entire pack cooperates under a single leader. Lines are clearly defined and rules are set. Because a dog communicates his displeasure with growling and eventually biting, all other humans must be higher up in the order than the dog.

Owners should give time for play and exercise. To the very least, Boerboels needs to be taken on long daily walks. These dogs thrive on love and attention and need companionship from their owners.

Boerboels are easy to groom. An occasional brushing and a monthly bath is all that is needed. This breed is an average shedder.

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