- to rise: 24-27 inches
- Weight: 110-175 lbs
- life span: 10-12 years old
- group: AKC Miscellaneous Class
- Best suitable for: Families with children, active singles, houses with yards, guard duty
- print: Protective, loyal and loving passionate
- Similar Breeds: Mastiff, Bullmastiff
Boerboel Basics
A powerful and impressive dog, the Boerboel is protective and fond of his family. Those in the “pack” can expect this brave dog to lay down his life for them, should the need arise. A vigil and strong breed, this dog can be an awesome guard or guard as well as a reliable and loving companion.
The Boerboel is athletically pleasing with its well-muscled body and moderate build, and it needs space to run in a safe area. Fetch is one of his favorite pastimes, but beware, games don’t last long with this breed. The Boerboel’s jaws are incredibly powerful and can break even the toughest game. He can be affectionate with his family, provided the dog understands his place in the “pack”. Letting this dog become the “top gun” in the house is dangerous. Training and socialization are needed for them to live a happy life with a Boerboel. To learn more about this amazing breed, read on.
A powerful and impressive dog, the Boerboel is protective and fond of his family.
the origin
The Boerboel, who grew up in Cape South Africa, has been the guardian and protector of farms and families in the region. They were large, loyal dogs capable of killing dangerous animals and warding off other intruders. Today, the Boerboel is still protective and guarding their homes and their families, but they have adapted to life in comfortable homes.
Pedigree
In 1652, a man named Jan von Rebeck traveled to South Africa with his family and his dog, Bullenbitjer. This was big dog style. The dog was very prolific and bred with domestic canines. Thus, Boerboel was born, according to many.
Others believe that the Bullenbitjer was bred with other large dogs brought to South Africa by settlers. For dozens of years, only the strongest and healthiest survive. In 1820, British settlers moved to the area and brought Bulldogs, Mastiffs and later, Bull Mastiffs. There is also a belief that the result of these diverse populations was crossed with the English long-legged bulldog, which led to the modern-day Boerboel.
Foods / Diet
Firm and consistent training is essential for a Boerboel to successfully coexist with human families.
training
Firm and continuous training is essential for the breed to successfully coexist with human families. This bright, strong-willed breed will do everything possible to become the alpha dog in the pack. This cannot be allowed to happen. A Boerboel must have an assertive owner who will ensure that the dog has a daily training session, even if he is constantly running on the same commands. Each member of the family must be constantly seen as above the Boerboel, in the dog’s mind. Training can help do this.
All training should be done using positive methods and a treat-based reward system. Cruelty or handling of a Boerboel’s humans will only lead to resentment and aggression. This dog wants to be the alpha dog in the pack. Your family is his bag. A sublime and solid hierarchy must be established and maintained in order to have a peaceful and enjoyable existence with the Boerboel.
Weight
The average Boerboel should weigh between 110 and 175 pounds and should be somewhere between 24 and 27 inches tall at the withers.
Temperament / behavior
The Boerboel can be an obedient and reliable companion, provided he has the right socialization and training. Although this breed is generally good with its family, Boerboels should be watched carefully with young children. They have a tendency to control everyone around them, including their family.
Brave, fiercely loyal and powerful, the Boerboel is an unreasonable guard or guard dog. He is so protective of his family that he would be willing to give his own life to ensure they are safe. This can be a recipe for disaster when visiting friends or family. Boerboel does not accept people in his home easily. Other pets are not welcome. Proper introductions and a watchful eye are needed when visitors are around. This is not an acceptable breed for families with small pets, such as cats, rabbits, and the like.
Playtime is essential for PowerBell! He is playful with his family and loves toys and balls. On the downside, this breed has incredibly powerful jaws. Toys will quickly get ruined instead, so be sure to budget for a dog toy.
joint health problems
life expectancy
Boels usually live between 10 and 12 years.
practice requirements
The Boerboel requires a great deal of exercise to keep it healthy, trim and happy. A brisk walk around the neighborhood will help keep your dog in shape as well as boost his social skills. Although he needs to run, the Boerboel is not the ideal companion for those who like to run long distances.
It is essential for the Boerboel to have a large, fully fenced area in which to play. A very active breed, he will be happy to play ball or fetch with his family for hours. Playtime is a great way to re-establish your alpha role with your dog.
Boerboels do well in many competitive activities provided they are well trained. Obedience and agility trials are a favorite for those who want to compete with Boerboels. Although most of them don’t like people they don’t know, there have been a few Boerboels that have become certified therapy dogs.
The Boerboel can be an obedient and reliable companion, provided he has the right socialization and training.
AKC
The American Kennel Club states: “The Boerboel is an intelligent dog with strong protective instincts and a desire to please. When approached, the breed is calm, articulate and, at times, aloof, but he loves his family. Early socialization and obedience training as well as daily exercise are important This breed has the largest, but minimal grooming needs. It is not the dog for the first time owner. Prospective owners should work with a reputable breeder when adding a Boerboel to the family.” The AKC currently has the Boerboel listed in the Variety category.
coat
With dense, loose skin and a short, glossy coat, there’s no mistaking this breed for mastiff style. The complexion should be dark in color. Although fawn, red and brown are the most common colors in the Boerboel, the Piebald, brindle and Irish Mark are also acceptable within the breed. A very black mask is required. Black Powerballs are not allowed to compete in the breeding ring because blacks are considered unacceptable.
puppies
Boerboel puppies require a lot of care. They need to be well socialized to lower the potential for aggressive behaviour. Obedience training from an early age is essential for an owner who is considered the alpha person in the chain of command. Without this, the puppy will grow up to dominate the household.
