The word “boerboel” derives from “boer” word for “farmer”. Boerboel thus translates as either “farmer’s dog” or “Boer’s dog” in Afrikaans. The Boerboel is a perfectly balanced dog with all body parts being in proportion with one another. The head is short, broad, deep, square, is muscular and has well-filled cheeks. The body is extremely muscular, stocky and compact. The skin is thick, loose and well pigmented with moderate wrinkles on the brow when the dog is attentive.
This breed was, and is, kept as watchdogs, as friends, as playmates to children, and as protectors of families. The Boerboel does not retreat from any form of danger. It was originally bred as a watchdog, to look after the homesteads in South Africa.
Boerboels are a very dominant but intelligent breed. They have a strong watchdog instinct and they are self-assured and fearless. They are however, responsive to the needs of the family since they display an intuitive ability to sense if the family is in danger.
They have strong territorial instincts, particularly in domestic situations. Like other large dogs with a strong guard instinct, the Boerboel also needs to be socialized as a puppy, so that aggression doesn’t develop. It should never be left with young children unattended.
They thrive on love and attention and need constant companionship from their owners and cannot be left alone for regular extended periods without becoming destructive, reckless and dangerous.
The Boerboel, if trained and socialized properly, is manageable, reliable, obedient and intelligent with strong protective instincts. This breed is self-confident and fearless. Uncontrollably aggressive and fearful Boerboels are unacceptable according to the breed standard.
The recognized and accepted colors of a Boerboel are all shades of yellow, brown or brindle. Pigmentation is also well proportioned in this large breed. The Boerboel is well pigmented, especially on the lips; palate; the skin and hair around the eyes; footpads and toenails.
The coat is short and sleek with dense hair coverage. The Boerboel is fairly easily to groom. An occasional brushing and a monthly bath and dip are all they need. This breed is considered to be an average shedder.
The general health of the Boerboel is of a high standard due to the natural selection that occurred over the centuries. This is a hardy breed, and generally more healthy than the average large breed. Twisted Stomach and hip dysplasia are a minimal issue. To help prevent the chance of hip or elbow dysplasia developing make sure your dog is on a healthy, well proportioned diet, and avoid excessive running and jumping while still a puppy as this can be hard on the developing joints. To minimize the risk of your Boerboel developing any hereditary health issues, you should buy a Boerboel puppy from a reputable breeder.
The Boerboel is not recommended for apartment life. This is a big, strong breed and they need their space. They should, at least, have a large, fenced-in yard to run around and play. The Boerboel is also happy to live outdoors. They are also a high energy breed and need to be taken on long daily walks to keep them happy and not bored. Boerboels love to play and would love a good game of ball.
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