The Boerboel not only looks like the perfect guard dog, it can be one too, because it was bred for this task in South Africa. With consistent training, the muscular and intelligent dog can be the ideal guard dog and companion with a lot of patience and a sense of family. This breed of dog is definitely not for beginners. They must be trained strictly and lovingly at the same time. With their powerful build, these animals have enormous strength. Males have an ideal size at the withers of 66 cm, while females are slightly smaller and lighter at 61 cm. With this build, the Boerboel can weigh up to 90 kg!
Content: Boerboel
- profile
- Special features
- Nutrition
- Health and care
- The right accessories
- Origin & History
- Conclusion
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Boerboel - Profile
- Character: loyal, alert, patient, intelligent
- Size: large
- Height: 55-66cm
- Weight: 70kg
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Coat type: Short hair
- Colour: brown, black, cream, mahogany, brindle
- Special features: extremely powerful
- FCI Group: not recognized
Boerboel - Special characteristics
They are neither considered fighting dogs nor are they listed in Germany. However, due to their size and strength and if they are not properly trained or given the right guidance, they can become "problem dogs". Whether a dog breed is banned is a matter for each state in Germany and you should find out from the relevant regulatory authority before buying a Boerboel. As far as we know, there is no state that has classified the Boerboel as dangerous. In France, Switzerland and Denmark, however, this breed is banned or subject to strict restrictions due to various incidents. As already mentioned, this dog is not suitable for beginners! After all, this dog breed is considered one of the strongest in the world. With its broad head, broad neck and attentive and intelligent gaze, it can be very impressive. Even though it is considered the prototype of a guard dog, the Boerboel is a calm and intelligent companion who is alert but does not usually become aggressive towards people. The bond with its family is usually quite strong, but strangers are viewed with suspicion. So the visitor should not only be introduced to the people present, but also to the dog security staff – your Boerboel.
Even though this loving little guy is a family dog, he should not be left alone with children or strangers! The Boerboel is also considered to be hardly compatible with other dog breeds and can be downright aggressive towards other dogs - this is also not a beginner-friendly dog behavior.
It should be clear to every novice dog owner that dogs need exercise, but the Boerboel needs a lot of it. As a guard dog, his strong protective instinct makes him completely unsuitable for keeping in an apartment! But even with a large garden that should be fenced in and escape-proof, he needs his daily exercise. But having his own garden area is not only practical for the dog owner, it is also important for the Boerboel's territorial behavior. At the same time, he should not just be kept in the yard, but should be well integrated into the family. Even though he is playful, he is not really suitable for dog sports .
Boerboel - What should be considered regarding nutrition?
The Boerboel is not considered to be susceptible to disease. Only hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia (HD and ED) occur, but can be partially prevented with the right diet. It is especially important to pay attention to the right diet for young dogs of this breed. If these dogs take in too much energy during their growth, they grow too quickly and the likelihood of joint disease increases. To ensure that the Boerboel does not go hungry, there is special dog food for large dog breeds. This has a corresponding energy balance and is coarser than dog food for small dog breeds. This not only gives the dog longer to chew, but also trains its teeth and promotes its health. This means that the dog can still eat a large portion of what it needs and still not grow too quickly. When feeding, you should also pay attention to the speed itself - so that it does not eat too quickly. It is best to give small portions several times a day - perhaps in the morning and evening? Of course, it should fit into the daily routine, because after every meal there should be a rest period to avoid dangerous stomach twists. Chews should not just be seen as a reward or gift for the dog. They are usually easier to digest than bones, strengthen the teeth and clean the teeth. It is always a good activity.
A basic rule for dog owners should be mentioned here, because large dog breeds have a much easier time getting hold of leftover food that has been carelessly left lying around - even on the kitchen table. This should always be avoided, because it can lead to begging behavior. Our "human" food can sometimes be unhealthy or even dangerous for our dogs. Spicy, salty or sweet foods are particularly unsuitable.
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Boerboel - Health and Care
The Boerboel's coat could hardly be easier to care for, as it is short, smooth and very fine. Grooming this breed of dog is more about wellness than necessary care. Since these animals spend a lot of time outside and love to get wet and dirty from time to time, grooming is not completely unnecessary. In this case, however, dog shampoo should only be used in exceptional cases, as this can seriously disrupt the natural oils in the undercoat and lead to skin irritations and skin diseases. The best thing to do is simply shower and dry with a towel.
Boerboel - The right accessories
It may not be considered an accessory, but a fenced garden is more than just a practical place for Boerboels to run around. This breed of dog loves to defend its territory and be outside - which doesn't mean that it should only be kept outside! A permanent place to sleep in the house or apartment should be a given. There is also a place in the garden from which the dog can monitor everything. A dog basket with a blanket can be enough, but large, heavy dogs in particular benefit from a good base. A dog mattress, for example, can distribute the weight better and is therefore not only comfortable, but also easy on the dog's joints.
The collar and the leash should be sufficiently strong for the strength of these dogs. Please avoid chains or collars with spikes, as these not only cause pain to the dog, but can also seriously injure it. With sufficient training, the Boerboel can also be kept with a harness - but note that he will transfer his strength to the road much better with a harness and it can be difficult to control him properly.
The popular flexi leashes are definitely not suitable for large and strong dogs and are not generally recommended. It is better to use a short leash for everyday use. Since Boerboel owners are dog professionals, a tow leash can be used for training - beginners should seek advice from a dog trainer.
Food and water bowls are suitable if they have a certain weight and do not tip over easily. Stainless steel is also easy to clean and will not be chewed up like plastic or wood. Make sure that the water bowl is always well filled - perhaps with a refill system.
Boerboel - Origin & History
In 1652, the Dutchman Van Riebeek brought the Bullenbeisser, an ancestor of today's Boerboel, to South Africa. This large dog, similar to the Mastiff, was supposed to be able to withstand the unknown dangers of the foreign continent. There it was indiscriminately crossed with local "working dogs" and bred as a guard dog. It was supposed to protect the house and farm and so its name in Afrikaans (formerly also called Cape Dutch or Colonial Dutch) simply means "farmer's dog". Bullmastiff and the English bulldog also had a big influence. It was not until 1994 that 12 Boerboels were exported to other Dutch countries. Even today, this dog breed is not officially recognized by the FCI . In South Africa, the SABBS (South African Boerboel Breeders' Society) monitors the breed standards for the Boerboel.
Conclusion
The Boerboel is an impressive and powerful dog, known as an excellent watchdog and loyal family companion. Training him requires an experienced hand, as he can become a problem dog if not given the right guidance. With his muscular build and alertness, he offers optimal protection for the house and yard. Despite his size and strength, the Boerboel is an intelligent and patient dog that develops a close bond with his family. He needs plenty of exercise, a large and well-fenced yard, and a balanced diet to stay healthy and happy. Grooming is straightforward thanks to his short coat, but regular eye and ear checks are necessary. Overall, the Boerboel is a loyal and protective companion for experienced dog owners.
