Today on Meet the Giants, we’re going to be talking about the Boerboel! This is another breed that I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting in person, but it’s just such a stunning breed
If you currently have a Boerboel, please list their names, ages, and gender.
Egypt 4 years, female spayed. I have had 21, including Egypt as fosters.
Are there any other names/nicknames for the Boerboel? If yes, list here.
African Mastiff, South African Mastiff
What are three words you would use to describe the Boerboel? Independent, Intense, Dramatic
What is the average size of a Boerboel?
Most are between 100-150, males can be up to 200. Most of mine were 120.
What are the acceptable colors of the Boerboel?
Fawn, apricot and Brindle. Black is not accepted by AKC and most other registries do not accept, piebald, blue or anything with more than 30% white.
What is the average lifespan?
10-12 years
What was the Boerboel bred to do?
Guard people from lions and predators in Africa. Some say they were breed to guard diamond mines too. I have never had one guard things always people.
How much exercise does the Boerboel need?
High for a mastiff but low for most breeds. 1-2 mile walks are plenty.
What are some common health problems?
Heart disease, joint problems, eye problems.
How much grooming does the breed require?
They do shed a lot of little short hairs but no hair cuts or anything extra.
What do you wish people knew about the Boerboel before bringing one home?
Research!!!!!! This is not a breed for 90% of the population. They are only loyal to the family and they do not like change or strangers. If you like the look but want a social dog, go for a Bullmastiff instead.
Why do you love
I love the spunk, the attitude, and they are not for everyone. They love their family and not many others. I love that they are more agile than most mastiff but still laid back.
They get their feelings hurt and do not respond well to punishment or force. They really need positive reinforcement based training. Tell a Boerboel to do something and they will give you a look; make them do it and you will get hurt. Ask them to do it and reward them and they will jump over the moon for you
I found this week’s Meet the Giants post SO interesting because I don’t know a single thing about Boerboels! I love people that truly embrace the personality of each breed. Thanks again, Emily, for all the info!
Interested in your own Boerboel? Head to Big Dogs Huge Paws for a list of available dogs and more information!
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Again a great entry to this series and such an important series.
Good looking breed!
not a very good pic of what the breed looks like but cutie.
great dogs but they are guard dogs!! fast and powerful. my girl is very alpha. not for everyone. If she knows you she loves you!!
Forgot to inform others of the BB abundance of drool!!!
I must say I’ve never heard of the Boerboel, what a beautiful dog! I can’t believe a male Boerboel has reached up to 200 lbs, that is a LOT of dog! Thanks for educating us on this interesting breed, great interview.
Love & biscuits,
Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them
I have been around and own Boerboel in 5 years and I disagree in some of the things sayin about the temperament : the boerboels ive been around Where and is very social even with strandens if you as the owner say the person is ok and still have theyre guarding instinct, also abot the colours : today the piebalds are accepteable at SABBS and in BI . I recommend people who read this do research ans also look at Boerboel forums such as : Boerboel International, Original Boerboels and so on so we owners can reply about them !
The South African Boerboels are characters. They are independent, intelligent and intimidating dogs to those who prefer med to small breeds. My gentle giant is 14 months, eager to learn and easy to train. However, there are times when this brindle scooby-doo makes his own decisions. All while making it clear, that he knows what to do, he’s just not doing it right now. We are convinced that some day he will win an award for best dog in a dramatic role, when he doesn’t have his way (LOL) …and the Oscar goes to Bear the Barista!