The Boerboel

The protective character of the Boerboel is still evident and is much sought after, as is the calm, stable, and confident composure of the breed. The dogs are obedient and intelligent and have strong territorial instincts. The Boerboel remains the guarding breed of choice amongst current day farmers and is very popular for the same reason in urban communities all over the world.

Boerboels Breed Characteristics


The Boerboel s 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. It carries itself with a confident and powerful movement, is fearless and shows courage when threatened.

Weight Male:
 60-79 kg (132-174 lb)
Weight Female: 55-73 kg (121-161 lb)
Height Male: 66 cm (26 in) ideal, minimum 60 cm (24 in)
Height Female:  61 cm (24 in) ideal, minimum 55 cm (22 in)
Coat:  Short & smooth
Colour: All shades of red, brown, yellow (fawn), brindle, black.
Life span: 10 to 12 years 

I am a Boerboel

Written by Jenny Wells

I am a substantial dog driven by love and loyalty to my nearest and dearest.

I am an impressive figure of strength with my stature, musculature, bearing and demeanour.

I can be the most reliable and loving family companion and a thoroughly determined force of nature if they are threatened.

I can be a clown and I have a sense of humour.

I am smart, make sure you are smarter! I will make decisions if you don't!

I was created in a school of hard knocks over generations on the farms in South Africa. I am tough, hardy, adaptable and can turn my paw to many uses and tasks.

I require love, attention, good food, guidance and proper accommodation - but most of all I require a responsible owner that will care for me and make time for me.

I don't like to be left alone for long periods of time and I can be destructive when I get bored.

I am happiest when you are with me.

I eat a lot and my vet bills can be expensive.

I am generally contented but I do require regular exercise and mental stimulation.

I need training to show me how to behave in various situations and let me know how to please you. I respond very well and learn fast with kindness, consistency and food rewards! I don't respond well to bullying, violence or rough handling.

I am sensitive to your needs and moods. I feel your stress.

I am protective of my family and those I consider my family, I will defend them to my last breath.

I am a Boerboel, you are my life, my love and my world. I am your guardian, your companion and your faithful friend until the last beat of my heart.

I am not just a Boerboel, I am your Boerboel.

Buying a Boerboel

Buying a Boerboel

Owning a Boerboel brings with it lots of love, pleasure and joy, as well as a sense of security. It also comes with responsibilities - the most important of which is to have the necessary information to make an informed decision at the outset.

First, consider your needs and whether you have the means to care for the dog for its entire life? Do you want a puppy or an adult dog? A male or female/dog? Are you looking for breeding stock and/or a companion for your family? Do you and your family have the necessary time and inclination to give the attention to the very specific raising and training requirements of a Boerboel? Do you have sufficient space and a secure environment for a large breed dog? Do you have the necessary knowledge of canine behaviour to raise a large dog with protective instincts? Is the entire family in agreement on owning a Boerboel?

Second, obtain as much information as possible about the Boerboel and breed standards by talking to SABBS office bearers, breeders and members. 

Owning a Boerboel, like any large breed dog, is a big responsibility, and owners must make the necessary commitment to raising a well adjusted and balanced dog. This can be more demanding and involve more time, effort and training than a small or medium-sized dog. 

Source: SABBS

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