ABOUT THE BOERBOELS
The Boerboel is a large, mastiff-type dog from South Africa with a black mask and a short coat. This dog breed is large with a strong bone structure and well-developed muscles. Its head appears blocky with a short length between the stop and nose.
Life expectancy: 10 – 12 years
Temperament: Obedient, Intelligent, Confident, Dominant, Territorial
Colors: Black, Brindle, Piebald, Fawn, Cream, Mahogany, Brown, Red
Weight: Male: 130–170 lbs (60–79 kg), Female: 120–160 lbs. (55–73 kg)
Height: Male: 25–28 inches (64–70 cm), Female: 23–26 inches (59–65 cm)
About the Breed
Boerboels are intimidating but discerning guardians of home and family who learned their trade while protecting remote South African homesteads from ferocious predators. They are dominant and confident, also bright and eager to learn. There's a no-frills, no-nonsense quality to this sleek-coated avenger, who might stand as high as 27 inches at the shoulder and weigh as much as you do. A broad and blocky head, powerful jaws, and thick muscles from neck to rump mark it as a descendant of the ancient 'molloser'dog family, the foundation of today's mastiff-type breeds. In motion, the Boerboel just might be the most agile of all mastiff types. The imposing Boerboel is devoted to protecting the people and places he loves. Training and socialization should begin early before a pup becomes a dominant adult. This is a trainable, versatile breed, eager to spend time with their adored humans. Still, a Boerboel might be way too much dog for the novice owner to handle.
The Boerboel is not recommended for apartment life. It should, at least, have a large, fenced-in yard to run and play. The Boerboel can live outdoors. This breed should not be left to run on its own for it is very protective and sometimes does not take too well to strangers.
Good with Kids: This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them. It is also shy toward strangers.
The Boerboel will get a lot of exercise if it has a large yard to run and play. However, it needs to be taken on a long daily walk. Boerboels love to play and would love a good game of ball.
Low Maintenance: Grooming is only necessary once in a while to maintain upkeep. No trimming or stripping is needed.
Hypoallergenic: Boerboels are generally known for their good health. However, Boerboels can suffer from hip or elbow dysplasia, vaginal hyperplasia, ectropion, and entropion. Recently, juvenile epilepsy (with attacks brought on by metabolic changes or stress) has appeared in the Boerboel breed. A boerboel's behavior and comportment may change over time. The average life expectancy is ten years.
Moderate Shedding: Expect this dog to shed regularly. Be prepared to vacuum often. Brushing will reduce shedding as well as make the coat softer and cleaner.
Easy Training: The Boerboel is an intelligent breed that requires consistent, firm, positive reinforcement. The Boerboel should have a dominant owner who can be strict when necessary and ensure the dog’s obedience.
Great Watchdog Ability: This dog will bark and alert its owners when an intruder is present. It exhibits very protective behavior, acts fearless toward any aggressor, and will do what it takes to guard and protect its family.