Boerboel
The Boerboel is a large and powerful farm guard dog from South Africa, descended from working dogs brought to the Cape of Good Hope by Dutch, German, and French Huguenot settlers from the mid-seventeenth century onwards.
These settlers needed robust, courageous dogs to protect their families, livestock, and homesteads from wild predators in demanding African conditions.
70-90kg
Weight
10-12yrs
Lifespan
About the Boerboel
Through generations of natural selection and purposeful breeding, the Boerboel developed into an exceptionally capable guardian with a strong protective instinct. Standing between 59 and 70 centimetres at the shoulder and weighing 70 to 90 kilograms, the Boerboel is one of the largest mastiff-type breeds, characterised by a broad, blocky head, muscular frame, and short, dense coat in fawn, brindle, brown, or red, often with a black mask. Despite its imposing appearance, the Boerboel is typically calm and confident rather than aggressive, forming strong bonds with its family and showing gentleness towards children it knows well. This breed requires experienced ownership, consistent training from puppyhood, and thorough socialisation, as its protective instincts and considerable physical strength demand careful management. With a lifespan of 10 to 12 years, the Boerboel is not suitable for inexperienced handlers but can be a devoted family companion in the right home.
Boerboel at a Glance
- Weight
- 70–90 kg
- Height
- 59–70 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–12 years
- Typical price
- £500–£1600
Boerboel Characteristics
The Boerboel thrives with vigorous daily activity and lots of space to burn off energy and is one of the easier breeds to train. They are fairly tolerant of children with proper introductions and manage alone time well enough, though they certainly prefer company. The coat isn't too demanding but does need consistent brushing and sheds at a typical rate for the breed type. This is a very clever breed that benefits from puzzle toys and training to keep their mind busy.
Boerboel Pros & Cons
Pros
- Loyal and protective of family with natural guarding instincts
- The short coat is low maintenance with minimal shedding
- Responds well to training and has an eager-to-please attitude
- Generally good with older children and respectful family members
Cons
- Thorough early socialisation is needed to keep protective tendencies in check
- Not a suitable choice for first-time owners given their size and training needs
- A high prey drive calls for careful management and very secure containment
- Can become destructive if they don't get enough exercise and mental stimulation
