Full Grown South African Boerboel: A Comprehensive Guide

They typically weigh between 110 and 175 pounds and stand between 23 and 27 inches tall at the shoulder.

This breed's muscular build is a testament to its original purpose as a working dog on farms and ranches.

South African Boerboels are known for their short, dense coats that require minimal grooming.

Their broad heads and distinctive underbites give them a unique appearance that's both intimidating and endearing.

The South African Boerboel is a large and impressive breed, typically standing 24-27 inches tall and weighing 110-170 pounds.

They are part of the working dog breed group and have a short, dense, and smooth coat.

These dogs are known for their protective and loyal nature, making them great companions for active families.

Their intelligence and trainability make them relatively easy to train, but early socialization and training are crucial to avoid stubbornness.

Boerboels require a lot of exercise, needing at least 2 hours of physical activity per day to stay happy and healthy.

Here are some key stats about the South African Boerboel breed:

While generally healthy, Boerboels can be prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and heart disease.

The South African Mastiff, also known as the Boerboel, is a majestic breed with a rich history. They originated from dogs brought by Dutch settlers to South Africa to defend their homes from wildlife.

Boerboels are known for their impressive size, weighing between 150 to 200 pounds and standing between 22 to 27 inches tall. They're a large breed, to say the least!

In terms of lifespan, Boerboels typically live between 9 to 11 years, which is a relatively long life for a dog of their size. With proper care, they can thrive and become loving companions.

Boerboels are excellent with children and families, making them a great addition to many households. They're also known for their friendly and outgoing temperaments, which makes them a joy to be around.

One thing to keep in mind is that Boerboels require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They need a medium level of exercise, which can be achieved through daily walks and playtime. They're also surprisingly agile for their size, making them a great hiking companion.

Here's a quick rundown of Boerboel characteristics:

Boerboels are also known for their short coats, which require minimal grooming. They do, however, shed a moderate amount, so be prepared for some dog hair around the house.

The Boerboel's history dates back to the 1600s when Dutch settlers brought large, strong dogs to South Africa to defend their homesteads.

These early dogs were bred with indigenous domestic dogs and other breeds, resulting in the Boerboel's unique ancestry.

The name "Boerboel" comes from Afrikaans/Dutch words for farmer ("boer") and dog ("boel"), reflecting the breed's origins as a working dog on farms.

Bred to defend against wildlife like hyenas, baboons, leopards, and big cats, the Boerboel developed a strong and tenacious nature.

European settlers brought Bulldogs and Mastiffs to South Africa, which were crossbred with Boerboels, further shaping the breed's characteristics.

The Boerboel's strength and tenacity allowed them to thrive in the hot South African climate and harsh conditions.

After the World Wars, South Africa became more urbanized, and Boerboels were often crossbred with other dogs without regard for breed purity.

However, in the 1980s, a group of breed enthusiasts worked to restore the Boerboel to its original purity, leading to its growing popularity in South Africa and around the world.

If this caught your attention, see: Full Breed Bulldog

The Boerboel's history is closely tied to its role as a working dog, guarding farms and families, as well as protecting livestock from predators.

The breed's intelligence, loyalty, and protective nature make it an excellent companion for families, particularly when well-socialized and trained.

In 2015, the American Kennel Club recognized the Boerboel as a working breed, acknowledging its long history and unique characteristics.

The Boerboel's origins as a farm dog are still evident in its laid-back and lazy nature, despite its size and power.

This breed's history and origin are a testament to its resilience and adaptability, making it a beloved companion for many families around the world.

A full-grown South African Boerboel is a large and powerful dog. They typically stand between 24 and 28 inches tall at the shoulder, with males averaging 24 to 28 inches and females between 22 and 25 inches.

Boerboels usually weigh between 110 and 200 pounds, though some can be larger or smaller. Their weight can vary depending on factors such as lineage and overall health.

Boerboels have a deep, square, and muscular head with a flat skull. The head is blocky, broad, and muscular, with a short muzzle that is blunt. The upper lip is fleshy, and the nostrils are black and widely spaced.

Here's a breakdown of the average height and weight of a full-grown Boerboel:

The full-grown South African Boerboel is a loving family dog, but it's not for inexperienced owners. They are big babies at home, loyal to their family, and so good with children.

Boerboels are playful, intelligent, and eager to please, making them a joy to be around. However, they can be overprotective at times, so it's essential to socialize them properly.

A well-adjusted Boerboel can be a loving companion with the right guidance, but they do require early socialization to prevent aggression. If they aren't trained or socialized properly, they can become fiercely territorial and aggressive.

Boerboels are intelligent and dominant, requiring an assertive trainer who will use positive reinforcement and set boundaries without being harsh. They need patient, consistent training and plenty of mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and anxiety.

They are big dogs with moderate exercise demands, so they need space to run around safely. A high, durable fence in a backyard is a must-have for a Boerboel, as they can get destructive if they don't get enough physical activity.

Boerboels are extremely loyal dogs and love people, making them excellent guard dogs and watchdogs. However, they don't like to be left alone and can suffer from separation anxiety if they're not provided with enough attention and companionship.

The Boerboel's lifespan is 9–11 years, in line with other giant dogs. They are considered a generally healthy breed, but can suffer from issues like hip dysplasia and cancer.

Regular grooming is easy, with a weekly brush or grooming mitt to remove loose hairs and distribute natural oils. You'll only need to give them an occasional bath, unless they get dirty.

A Boerboel's main health concerns include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, ectropion, and entropion. These can be fixed with surgery, but it's essential to catch them early through regular vet checkups.

Here are some common health issues to look out for:

The Boerboel breed is generally considered robust and healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Hip dysplasia, a condition affecting the hip joints, is one such issue that can cause pain and lameness in the rear legs.

Heart disease is another potential concern, encompassing various cardiac issues that can lead to lethargy, weakness, and abnormal heartbeats. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can help identify these issues early on.

Boerboels are also susceptible to eye conditions, which can impact their vision and even lead to serious eye infections if left untreated. Entropion, a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, is a common issue that can be fixed with surgery.

Bloat is a life-threatening gastrointestinal problem that can occur in deep-chested breeds like the Boerboel. It's essential to never elevate your dog's water and food bowls, and to avoid feeding them large meals followed by exercise.

Here are some common health issues that can affect Boerboels:

Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help prevent or identify these issues early on, ensuring your Boerboel lives a long and happy life.

Boerboels are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their dense, short coats only need a weekly brushing with a soft-bristled brush or grooming mitt to remove loose hairs and distribute natural oils.

Regular nail trimming is essential, ideally every two weeks, to prevent overgrowth. Brushing their teeth regularly, as recommended by a veterinarian, will also keep their dental health in check.

Daily exercise is crucial for Boerboels, but a few good walks or playtime in the backyard should suffice. They'll happily snooze the rest of the day away, but if you're feeling adventurous, they'll love participating in agility, weight-pulling, and stock competitions.

Boerboels can get big, so be prepared for their food costs to add up quickly. Make sure you can dedicate time to train and socialize them, and also consider the expenses that come with their size.

As a full-grown South African Boerboel, your diet should be formulated for a large to giant breed with moderate to high exercise requirements. You should consult your veterinarian or professional nutritionist for advice on what to feed your Boerboel and the correct portion sizes.

Your Boerboel's dietary needs will change as they grow from puppyhood to adulthood and senior age. Stay on top of these nutritional requirements.

Think portion control when fighting against Boerboel obesity, as your veterinarian can help you determine how many calories your dog needs each day.

Encourage your dog to eat slowly, which will also help to reduce digestive problems and bloat.

A Slow Feeder can help your Boerboel eat more slowly, and comes in different sizes.

Boerboels that are overweight still need to have proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and all other nutrients that are essential for good health.

If you've decided to reduce your dog's calorie consumption each day, it's essential to consult with your veterinarian to ensure vital nutrition isn't eliminated.

Cut back on "low fat", prescription processed commercial dog foods, and opt for the highest-quality, balanced and appropriate diet that you can afford.

Practice portion control to help prevent plenty of health issues later on in life.

Healthy, low-fat treats are a must for this dog breed to avoid weight problems.

Exercise consistently, and feed an appropriate high-quality dog food formula that is for the correct life stage of your dog.

The Boerboel is a high-energy dog that requires regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. This includes plenty of off-leash runs to let them stretch their legs and get some exercise.

They don't do well with meeting new dogs, so it's essential to start socialization early on during the first four weeks of puppyhood. This will help them become confident and calm in new situations.

Boerboels are natural athletes and love to swim, making it an excellent exercise option for them. In fact, swimming should be added to their exercise schedule starting from puppyhood.

Long hikes, car rides, and exposure to children, people, other dogs, and animals are also great ways to keep your Boerboel happy and stimulated. However, it's crucial to keep an eye on your Boerboel puppy when they play with larger dogs, as they can get overexcited and forget how big the other dog really is.

Because Boerboel pups go through growth spurts, they often become out of balance, making them vulnerable to injuries. To prevent this, it's essential to provide them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them balanced and happy.

Going to the dog park is often not a good idea for Boerboels, as they may have negative interactions with other dogs and people. However, organized canine sporting activities like agility, stock work, obedience, tracking, weight pull, and protection work can be an excellent way to satisfy their high energy levels and keep them happy and engaged.

Adopting a Boerboel requires careful consideration, as this rare breed may be prone to aggression. Positive dog training needs to begin from day one.

Before adopting, visit your Boerboel a few times at the shelter to assess its temperament and behavior around people, children, and other pets. Take your Boerboel for walks to see how it interacts with others.

Choosing between an adult Boerboel and a puppy Boerboel is a tough decision, but adult Boerboels make for a fulfilling adoption and require less time with their owners.

Dogs at shelters may have behavioral issues, but many shelters offer post-adoption help, including free positive dog training classes and 24-hour behavior hotlines.

Understanding your Boerboel's behavioral problems is essential for developing a strong bond with your dog. This requires focus on veterinary health care and working through any behavioral issues that may arise.

To keep your Boerboel happy and healthy, provide plenty of socialization, positive dog training, and the right amount of exercise. This breed thrives on farms but also needs to be kept indoors with the family.