About the Boerboel

The Boerboel is a powerful and confident working dog that originated in South Africa, where it was developed to guard farms and protect livestock. Known for its imposing presence, the Boerboel combines strength with agility, making it an excellent companion and protector. Despite its muscular build and serious demeanor, the Boerboel is affectionate and devoted to its family, thriving in environments where it can form close bonds with its human companions. With proper training and socialization, the Boerboel is both a dependable guardian and a gentle family member.

AKC Group

Working

Height

22 – 27 inches

Weight

150 – 200 pounds

Lifespan

9 – 11 years

History of the Boerboel

The Boerboel originated in South Africa, where it was developed as a farm dog capable of guarding property, protecting livestock, and assisting with hunting. The breed’s name, derived from the Afrikaans words “boer” (farmer) and “boel” (dog), reflects its heritage as a reliable companion to farmers who needed a powerful and versatile working dog.

Boerboel’s ancestry can be traced back to the 1600s, when European settlers, including Dutch, German, and Huguenot immigrants, brought large, mastiff-type dogs to South Africa. These dogs were bred with native African dogs and other imported breeds to create a strong and adaptable guardian capable of withstanding the harsh conditions of the African landscape.

Renowned for their courage and loyalty, Boerboels were used to defend homesteads from predators such as lions and leopards. Over time, they became an integral part of farm life, valued for their ability to work independently while remaining deeply bonded to their families.

The breed faced a decline in the mid-20th century, but dedicated efforts by breeders in South Africa revived and standardized the breed. The Boerboel’s reputation as a protector eventually gained international recognition, leading to its introduction in other countries.

The Boerboel was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2015 as a member of the Working Group.

General Appearance

Height & Weight

Male Boerboels typically stand between 24 and 27 inches tall at the shoulder, while females measure slightly less, ranging from 22 to 25 inches.

Males generally weigh between 150 and 200 pounds, with females being somewhat lighter, averaging 120 to 160 pounds.

Proportion & Substance

The Boerboel has a balanced and well-proportioned body, reflecting strength, agility, and soundness. Its broad chest, solid bone structure, and muscular build emphasize its working heritage as a protector. The breed’s frame is substantial without appearing overly bulky, ensuring both power and efficiency.

Coat Texture, Colors & Markings

Texture: The Boerboel has skin that is thick and loose but fits smoothly. The breed has a short, dense, and smooth coat that lies close to the body. Its texture provides protection while being easy to maintain.

A Note About Color: The recognized colors and patterns may appear with or without a mask; however, a black mask is desirable. Limited clear white patches on the legs and forechest are permissible. The total area of white on a piebald dog may not exceed one-third. More than this disqualifies, as does ticking or spots within the white, a blue coat, a long coat, or any base color other than those listed. The nose leather must be black, and the lips, palate, eye rims, paw pads, toenails, anus, and the skin and hair around the genitals must be well-pigmented.

Head

• Skull: The skull of the Boerboel is broad, slightly rounded, and flat between the ears, with well-defined musculature that emphasizes the breed’s strength. Its forehead is slightly furrowed, adding to its alert and confident expression.
• Eyes: The eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped, and set wide apart. They are typically brown in color, complementing the coat. The skin and hair around the eyes are well-pigmented, highlighting the dog’s focused and attentive demeanor.
• Ears: The ears are medium-sized, V-shaped, and set high on the head. They naturally fold forward and lie close to the cheeks, maintaining a balanced and symmetrical appearance.
• Muzzle: The muzzle is broad, deep, and well-filled, maintaining proportional balance with the skull. It tapers slightly from the base to the nose without appearing pointed or narrow.
• Nose: The nose is always black, with large, open nostrils that enable efficient airflow, which is important for an active Working breed.
• Bite: The Boerboel possesses a strong jaw with a scissors bite, where the upper incisors closely overlap the lower incisors. (An undershot bite uo to ¼ inch is acceptable.) This secure and powerful bite reflects the breed’s historical purpose as a protector and working dog.

Tail

The tail is traditionally docked at a medium length, although natural, undocked tails are also acceptable. Natural tails are carried with a slight curve, but should not curl over the back. Both docked and undocked tails complement the breed’s powerful appearance.

The Boerboel – What to Consider?

The Boerboel is a powerful and loyal breed that thrives in homes where it can receive consistent training, socialization, and physical activity. While it is known for its protective instincts, it also forms strong bonds with its family members, making it a devoted companion. However, potential caretakers should be prepared for the breed’s size, strength, and assertive nature, which require experienced handling and careful management.

Boerboel Health

The Boerboel is generally a robust and healthy breed, with a lifespan ranging from 9 to 11 years. However, like all large-breed dogs, individuals may be prone to certain health issues that should be monitored throughout a dog’s lifetime. Maintaining a healthy weight, providing regular exercise, and following a balanced diet can help to reduce the risk of some common health problems.

Potential Health Risks

Boerboels may be predisposed to several health conditions, including:

• Hip Dysplasia: A condition where the hip joint does not fit properly, leading to mobility issues and pain.
• Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, this condition affects the elbows and can result in lameness.
• Entropion & Ectropion: Abnormalities of the eyelids which can lead to irritation or infections.
• Heart Disease: Boerboels can be prone to certain cardiac issues, including subaortic stenosis.
• Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists and traps gas, requiring immediate veterinary intervention.
• Vaginal Hyperplasia: A female reproductive condition occasionally observed.
• Cruciate Ligament Injuries: Joint injuries which may require surgical correction.

Boerboel Personality

Boerboel is confident, intelligent, and deeply loyal. Its protective instincts make it an excellent guard dog, but it is also affectionate with family members. While wary of strangers, proper socialization helps the Boerboel to remain well-mannered in new situations.

Boerboels are sensitive to their environment and dislike being left alone for long periods. They tend to get along with children and other pets when raised together, but require supervision due to their size and strength. With early training and firm leadership, Boerboels can be dependable companions that balance loyalty with a calm demeanor.

Boerboel Feeding & Nutrition

Growing Boerboels benefit from a high-quality, large-breed puppy diet to support growth and prevent joint issues. Adults typically require 4 to 8 cups of high-protein food per day, divided into two meals.
To prevent obesity, portion sizes should be adjusted based on activity levels, and fresh water should always be available. Consulting a veterinarian helps to tailor feeding plans to meet individual needs and avoid health concerns such as bloat.

Boerboel Training

Boerboels are intelligent and trainable, but they require firm, consistent leadership due to the breed’s strong-willed nature. Early socialization and obedience training are critical to prevent over-protectiveness and ensure reliable behavior.

Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, work well, but clear boundaries are essential. Leash training and recall commands are especially important to manage their guarding instincts and prey drive.

With mental stimulation and structured activities, a Boerboel can thrive as an obedient and versatile working dog.

Boerboel Exercise

Boerboels need 60–120 minutes of daily exercise to stay fit and well-behaved. Walks, playtime, and training sessions keep these dogs physically and mentally stimulated.

While they enjoy activities like hiking or running, Boerboels adapt to moderate routines as long as they remain active. Secure yards provide safe play areas, but supervision is important due to the breed’s protective instincts.

Boerboel Grooming

The Boerboel’s short, dense coat is easy to maintain with weekly brushing that removes loose hair. Shedding increases during seasonal changes, so brushing may need to be more frequent at those times.

Bathing is only necessary when the Boerboel is truly dirty, and routine care, such as nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing, will support the dog’s overall health. The breed’s low-maintenance grooming needs can make this an ideal dog for owners seeking a clean and courageous companion.

Living with a Boerboel

Boerboels thrive in homes with secure yards and space to move, making them less suited for apartment living. They tolerate warm weather better than cold, but shelter and water are essential in both conditions.
These dogs form strong bonds with their families and dislike being left alone for long periods. Proper socialization and supervision help to manage the breed’s protective instincts, ensuring the Boerboel interacts well with guests and other animals. These dogs are best suited for experienced owners who can provide structure and leadership.

Boerboel Puppies

Bringing a Boerboel puppy into the home is an exciting and rewarding experience. These intelligent and affectionate dogs form strong bonds with their families, but they require structured care and training from the start. Due to the breed’s rapid growth and protective instincts, Boerboel puppies need proper nutrition, socialization, and consistent guidance to develop into well-mannered, confident adults.

Caring for a Puppy

Caring for a Boerboel puppy begins with a balanced diet designed for large breeds to support steady growth and joint health. Meals should be divided into 2–3 portions per day to prevent overfeeding and reduce the risk of bloat.

Exercise should be gentle and controlled, such as short walks or supervised play, to protect developing joints. High-impact activities like jumping or climbing stairs should be avoided during growth phases to prevent strain or injury.

Early socialization is critical to help the Boerboel puppy grow into a confident and adaptable adult. Exposure to different environments, people, and animals prepares the pup for various situations and reduces fearfulness or reactivity. Puppy training classes provide structured learning while reinforcing obedience and proper behavior.

Training should focus on positive reinforcement using treats and praise. The Boerboel puppy responds well to clear boundaries and routines, which help to prevent stubbornness or dominance behaviors. Establishing a schedule for feeding, potty breaks, and rest enables the pup to feel secure and adapt quickly to its new homes.

With consistent care, proper nutrition, and early training, the Boerboel puppy will grow into a loyal and watchful guardian and a well-balanced companion.

Boerboel Activities & Dog Sports

• Obedience: Showcases the Boerboel’s intelligence and ability to follow commands.
• Agility: Highlights their speed, agility, and ability to navigate obstacles.
• Weight Pulling: Demonstrates their impressive strength and endurance.
• Protection Sports: Tests their guarding instincts and obedience under pressure.
• Conformation Shows: Evaluates their structure, movement, and adherence to the Breed Standard.
• Therapy Work: Offers emotional support and comfort due to their calm demeanor and loyalty.
• Search and Rescue: Utilizes their strength, endurance, and problem-solving skills in rescue operations.
• Guarding: Fulfills their natural role as protectors in homes and farms.

Group Classification & Standards

The Boerboel is recognized by the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations, which categorize the breed into a specific Group based on its unique characteristics. This breed is recognized worldwide under the following Group designations:

The ideal Boerboel is described by a Breed Standard that is approved by each of the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations. The Breed Standards for this breed may be found in the following links:

Boerboel Clubs

• American Boerboel Club (ABC): The official parent club recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), the ABC promotes responsible breeding, education, and participation in events that showcase the breed’s qualities.
• The Boerboel UK Society: Focused on promoting and protecting the Boerboel in the United Kingdom, this organization offers support for owners and hosts breed-related events.

Boerboel Rescue Groups

Boerboel rescue groups are dedicated to helping Boerboels in need by providing shelter, medical care, and rehoming services. These organizations focus on rescuing abandoned, neglected, or surrendered Boerboels and work to match them with suitable adoptive families.

• U.S.A Boerboels in Need Network: This is a national organization committed to rescuing and rehoming Boerboels across the United States.

Boerboel Facts

• South African Roots: Developed as a farm guardian, the Boerboel’s name comes from the Afrikaans word “boer,” meaning farmer.
• AKC Recognition: The Boerboel was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2015 as part of the Working Group.
• Powerful Protector: Bred to defend against predators like lions, Boerboels are known for their courage and strength.
• Low Maintenance Coat: The Boerboel’s short coat requires minimal grooming, making it an easy to care for breed.
• Rare Worldwide: Although gaining in popularity, the Boerboel remains relatively uncommon outside of South Africa.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do Boerboels shed?

Yes, Boerboels do shed, but their short coat makes it relatively manageable. Regular brushing helps to control shedding and keeps their coat healthy.

Are Boerboels hypoallergenic?

No, Boerboels are not hypoallergenic. They shed and produce dander, which can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.

How long do Boerboels live?

Boerboels typically live 9 to 11 years. Their lifespan can vary depending on genetics, care, and overall health.

Are Boerboels good family dogs?

Yes, Boerboels are known for being loyal and protective family dogs. They thrive with proper training and socialization to ensure they become confident and well-mannered as adults.

Do Boerboels bark a lot?

Boerboels are not excessive barkers, but will alert to potential threats. Their guarding instincts make them vocal when they sense something unusual.