Boerboel: temperament, size, care and health

About the Boerboel

The Boerboel is one of the biggest mastiff breeds, a massive, heavily muscled dog with a broad head, a deep chest and a short, smooth coat. Adults stand roughly 22 to 27 inches tall, though the weight is considerable. Colors include fawn, brown, red and brindle, usually with a dark mask. The look is of great power with an upright, confident bearing.

The name means farmer's dog in Afrikaans. It was bred by settlers in South Africa to guard homesteads, livestock and families against predators and intruders. These days it is kept as a protective companion by owners with experience of large guardian dogs.

Temperament and family life

A Boerboel is typically loyal, self-assured and calm with its household, and it can be affectionate and devoted. Its guarding instinct is strong, and it is wary and territorial toward strangers. Without early and ongoing socialization, a Boerboel may become fearful or aggressive, which is serious in a dog of this size.

The breed is often described as tolerant with its own children, but its weight alone creates a risk, and visiting children should be supervised. Same-sex aggression toward other dogs is common, and a strong prey drive may be directed at small animals. The dog needs a calm, confident owner who sets clear rules and does not rely on size to enforce them.

Exercise and training

A Boerboel needs regular exercise but not extreme amounts. Daily walks, play and time in a large, securely fenced yard satisfy most adults. In hot weather the breed handles heat better than many mastiffs, but exercise should still be moderate. Growing puppies should be protected from hard exercise and heavy impact while their bones develop.

Training is not optional. The Boerboel is intelligent and can learn quickly, but it is strong-willed and tests handlers. Begin as soon as the puppy arrives, use consistent, fair, reward-based methods and attend classes. A well-trained dog that comes when called, sits calmly for guests and walks on a loose lead is manageable, while an untrained one is a danger.

Grooming and shedding

The coat is among the easiest to care for. Brush weekly with a rubber curry or mitt, and bathe when needed. Shedding is moderate and increases seasonally, with short hairs showing on upholstery.

Check the ears, trim the thick nails regularly and keep the facial skin clean and dry. The dog's light coat offers little warmth, so a coat may be needed in cold weather. Provide a thick bed to prevent pressure sores on elbows.

Health

The breed is generally sturdy but shares the problems of giant dogs. Hip and elbow dysplasia are the most common, and breeders have joints evaluated. Bloat is an emergency in deep-chested dogs, and heart conditions, loose eyelids and skin issues such as demodectic mange are reported. Weight control reduces strain on joints. Because this page is only general information, ask a veterinarian about any particular dog.

History

The Boerboel is generally traced to the farm dogs of colonial settlers in South Africa, crossed with mastiff and bulldog types. Breeders in the twentieth century worked to preserve and standardize it, and the South African breed association was formed in 1983. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 2015.

Is the Boerboel right for you?

The Boerboel suits an experienced owner with land, a tall fence and the resolve to train and socialize a powerful dog from the first day. It is a poor choice for first-time owners, for apartment life or for anyone who wants a dog welcoming of strangers. The Italian Cane Corso has a similar role, while the British Mastiff is heavier and calmer. The Rottweiler is a smaller working guardian with a longer track record.