Boerboel Dog Breed Information

The Boerboel is one of the world’s most respected and beloved dog breeds because of its power, devotion, and steadfast protective instincts. They typically weigh between 68 and 91 kg, have an average height of 56 to 69 cm, and live for 10 to 12 years.

In this article, we will dig into the exciting world of the Boerboel, including its history, traits, temperament, care requirements, and more.

Origin

The Boerboel originated in South Africa, where Dutch colonists created it in the seventeenth century. It originated in Africa due to the crossbreeding of native African dogs with several European breeds imported by these settlers.

Boerboels were bred for strength, bravery, and protective instincts. They developed into the strong protectors we recognize today throughout time, emulating the grit and perseverance of their South African ancestry.

Physical Appearance

Boerboels are impressive in size and stature, typically weighing between 150 to 200 pounds. Males stand about 22 to 27 inches tall, while females are slightly shorter, ranging from 22 to 24 inches. Their muscular build and broad chest give them a powerful presence. The breed’s coat is short, dense, and smooth, requiring minimal grooming. Coat colors vary, including shades of fawn, brown, brindle, and black, with some having a darker mask around the face.

Boerboels are known for their distinctive physical features, such as their broad head, strong jaw, and thick neck. Their eyes are dark and expressive, often conveying a sense of alertness and intelligence. The breed’s ears are medium-sized, V-shaped, and set high on the head, contributing to their attentive appearance.

Personality

Boerboels are known for their unwavering loyalty and protective nature. They form strong bonds with their families, often becoming deeply attached to their owners. This breed is particularly protective of children, making them excellent family guardians. Despite their large size and strength, Boerboels are generally calm and gentle around their family members, displaying patience and affection.

However, their protective instincts mean they can be wary of strangers. This natural wariness is part of their guarding behavior, which makes them highly effective protectors. Boerboels are territorial by nature, and they will not hesitate to defend their home and family if they sense a threat.

Boerboels can get along well with other pets if raised with them from a young age. However, their dominant nature may lead to conflicts with other animals, particularly if they are not properly socialized. Overall, Boerboels are reliable, protective, and loving dogs, but they require an experienced owner who can provide firm and consistent leadership.

How to Take Care of Boerboel

Grooming

Boerboels are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, thanks to their short, dense coat. However, regular grooming is still important to keep their coat healthy and to reduce shedding. Brushing their coat once or twice a week with a firm bristle brush helps remove loose hair and dirt while also distributing natural oils that keep their skin and coat healthy.

Bathing a Boerboel should be done as needed, typically every few months, unless they get particularly dirty. You can use a mild dog shampoo to avoid stripping their coat of its natural oils. Over-bathing can lead to dry skin, so it’s important to keep baths to a minimum.

Boerboels have strong, fast-growing nails that should be trimmed regularly, ideally every few weeks. Long nails can cause discomfort or even lead to injury. It’s important to check their ears regularly for signs of infection, such as redness, odor, or excessive wax buildup. Clean their ears with a gentle, dog-safe ear cleaner as needed.

Health

Boerboels are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to specific health issues. One of the most common concerns is hip and elbow dysplasia, a condition where the joints don’t develop properly, leading to arthritis and discomfort.

Heart disease is another concern for Boerboels. Dilated cardiomyopathy, a condition where the heart becomes enlarged and weak, can affect this breed. Regular heart screenings, a balanced diet, and maintaining an active lifestyle are essential to keep their heart healthy.

Bloat, or gastric torsion, is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can affect Boerboels. It occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood flow. To reduce the risk, it’s advised to feed them smaller, more frequent meals and avoid vigorous exercise immediately after eating.

Exercise

Boerboels are a high-energy breed that requires regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. Due to their size and strength, they need a minimum of one to two hours of exercise each day. This can include a combination of walks, playtime, and mental stimulation activities.

Daily walks are essential, but they should be complemented with more vigorous activities, such as running, hiking, or playing fetch. These activities help burn off excess energy and prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behavior. Boerboels also enjoy tasks that challenge their minds, such as puzzle toys or obedience training exercises.

In addition to structured exercise, Boerboels benefit from having space to roam and explore. A large, securely fenced yard is ideal for them to stretch their legs and engage in natural behaviors like sniffing and patrolling their territory.

What to or What Not to Feed them

Feeding a Boerboel requires attention to their nutritional needs, as their large and muscular build demands a diet that supports their energy levels and overall health. High-quality commercial dog food formulated for large breeds is typically the best choice, as it provides the right balance of protein, fat, and essential nutrients. Look for foods that list meat as the first ingredient and avoid those with excessive fillers like corn, wheat, and soy.

Protein is crucial for maintaining their muscle mass, so aim for a diet with at least 20-25% protein content. Fat is also important, but it should be balanced to avoid excessive weight gain. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are beneficial for maintaining a healthy coat and skin.

You should avoid feeding your Boerboel table scraps, especially foods that are harmful to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic. These foods can be toxic and lead to serious health problems. Additionally, you have to avoid bones that can splinter, as they can cause choking or damage to their digestive tract.

It’s important to feed your Boerboel in measured portions to prevent overeating and obesity.

Pros and Cons for Boerboel

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What type of temperament do Boerboel dogs have?

Boerboels are known for their confident, calm, and courageous temperament. They are fiercely loyal and protective of their families, making them excellent guard dogs.

2. How often should Boerboel dogs be groomed?

Boerboel dogs require minimal grooming due to their short coat. Weekly brushing is typically enough to keep their coat healthy and manage shedding.

3. Are Boerboel dogs good with children?

Boerboels can be good with children if they are properly socialized from a young age. Due to their size and protective nature, supervision is recommended when they are around young children.

4. What are common health issues in Boerboel dogs?

Common health issues in Boerboels include hip and elbow dysplasia, heart conditions, and ectropion (a condition where the eyelid turns outward). Regular health screenings are important for early detection.

5. How much exercise do Boerboel dogs need?

Boerboel dogs require regular exercise to maintain their physical health and prevent boredom. Daily walks, play sessions, and ample yard space for movement are necessary to keep them active and engaged.

Wrapping Up

The Boerboel embodies the spirit of its South African ancestry and is a sign of power, loyalty, and perseverance. Its commanding presence, steadfast devotion, and kind disposition have won over dog lovers worldwide.

These magnificent dogs continue to make a lasting impression on everyone they encounter, whether protecting the farm or acting as beloved family members.