A brown Boerboel dog rests in the grass.

South African Boerboel Breed Guide

Height
22 - 27"
Weight
120 - 200 lbs
Type
Working
Life Expectancy
9 - 12 years
Area of Origin
Africa

The Boerboel (pronounced “ber-bull”) is a large, courageous, and protective dog breed that originated in South Africa in the 1600s. Their name translates to “Farmer’s Dog,” which is significant in that their role was to protect the homestead of European settlers.

The breed is still hailed today as a handsome and loyal guardian of the family and home. They are particularly well known for their innate ability to distinguish welcomed visitors from intruders. While they are touted for their strength, power, and protection, they also have a very warm and loving side reserved for their families.

Energy Level
4
Playfulness
3
Friendliness to dogs
2
Friendliness to strangers
2
exercise requirements
4
affection level
4
friendliness to other pets
3
watchfulness
5
Grooming Requirements
2
Vocality
2

Where Is the Boerboel From?

The ancestry of the Boerboel breed can be traced back to the “Boer Dog,” which developed from the interbreeding of Mastiffs, Bulldogs, and other large European dogs used for power and guarding. The Boer Dog served as both a hunter and protector for European settlers (the “Boers”) in 17th century South Africa.

They were introduced to other countries by Dr. Carl Semencic, an American anthropologist. The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2015.

Caring for a Boerboel

What Kind of Diet Does a Boerboel Need?

What Kind of Diet Does a Boerboel Need?

Because of their size and energy level, the Boerboel requires a nutritious, large-breed dog food. Be sure to exercise portion control, since these dogs are known to be voracious eaters.

How Much Grooming Does a Boerboel Dog Need?

How Much Grooming Does a Boerboel Dog Need?

The Boerboel has a short and dense haircoat that only requires occasional brushing to reduce unwanted shedding. Bathing is also only required on occasion.

Are Boerboels Healthy Dogs?

Are Boerboels Healthy Dogs?

The Boerboel is a relatively healthy dog breed with an average life expectancy of 10 to 12 years. Potential medical issues include hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as entropion and ectropion. Entropion and ectropion are conditions of the eyelids in which the lid either turns inward or outward (respectively). Vaginal hyperplasia and juvenile epilepsy have also been noted.

They are predisposed to: hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, entropion, ectropion, vaginal hyperplasia, and juvenile epilepsy.

How Much Training Does a Boerboel Need?

How Much Training Does a Boerboel Need?

Early socialization and obedience training are necessary, as they are a powerful and territorial breed by nature. They are very intelligent and interested in learning. Thus, they make outstanding students and family pets when given adequate attention and dedication.

How Much Exercise Do Boerboels Need?

How Much Exercise Do Boerboels Need?

Boerboels are agile and energetic. They thrive on daily exercise and mental enrichment. Long, leashed walks, play in a fenced-in area, and agility training are all recommended options. Due to the protective nature of this breed, off-leash activities are not advised.

What Are the Physical Characteristics of a Boerbel?

How Big Are Boerboels?
Boerboels measure 22 – 27 inches in height and weigh 120 – 200 pounds. They are tall, stocky, and powerful dogs that bear a resemblance to the Mastiff breeds. Despite their body type, they are known to be quite agile.
Boerboel Head and Facial Features
The Boerboel’s head is blocky and well-muscled, featuring wrinkling of the skin atop the forehead and a loose, floppy upper lip. The muzzle is often darkly pigmented, as are the nostrils. The eyes are medium sized and can be any shade of brown. Ears are triangular in shape and hang forward.
How Strong Are Boerboels?
They are one of the strongest dog breeds in existence and have a physical build to match their reputation. Their necks are muscular, backs are brawny and straight, and chests are deep and broad.
Do Boerboels Have Long Tails?
Yes, they are born with long, straight tails. Docking is common for the breed, resulting in a short tail set high on the rump.
Front Legs
The forelimbs are straight, well-muscled, and densely boned. Shoulders are sloped, and feet are compact.
What Colors Are Common for Boerboels?
They are typically brown, fawn, or red in color. Their coats are short, thick, and shiny.
Back Legs
Hindlimbs are well-muscled. The upper thighs are brawny and can be appreciated from the rear. Limbs are parallel and feet point straight forward.

Boerboel Facts

Breed enthusiasts claim that they are "the only breed in the world specifically bred to guard and protect.”
Traditionally, the tail was docked to protect it from being grabbed during a baboon attack.
Their skin is darkly pigmented to protect them from the sun's rays.

Other Breeds to Explore

References

  • Morris, Desmond. Dogs: The Ultimate Dictionary of Over 1,000 Dog Breeds. Trafalgar Square, 2002.