South African Boerboel
boerboel
Country of Orgin: South Africa
Height: 25-28 in (64-70cm)
Weight: 154-200 lbs. (70-90kg)
Coat: Short
Color: Brindle, Brown, Black, Fawn, Red, Cream

Appearance

Muscular, well balanced mastiff with a short muzzle and a huge neck. Tails are cut short but this is not a requirment for the breed. Males are very imposing showing physical ability, strength, and power. The head of the Boerboel should be large, but in proportion to the body.

 

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Behavior

Boerboels are a fearless, and intelligent breed. They have great guard dog ability, and display an intuitive ability to sense if the family is in danger. Boerboels are very dominant and needs to be watched around those that he does not know. Early socialization is a must to avoid aggression towards other dogs and people. Like any other big breed, children should not be left unattended. This is a breed that thrives on love, attention, and companionship. Dogs that are left alone for long periods of time can become destructive.

History

Boerboels are large working dogs from South Africa. It's the only breed of dog specifically bred for home protection. It is uncertain how many, and which dogs played a part in it's makeup. It is claimed that in 1652, Jan van Riebeeck arrived to the Cape, and brought with him a "bullenbijter" and others with him had large strong dogs also. The diamond mining company De Beers imported Bullmastiffs to guard the mines, and they may have also added to the Boerboels makeup. Boerboels are a true working breed and has it's own international pedigree under the SABBA (South African Boerboel Breeders Association), Historical Boerboel Association of South Africa (HBSA), and the Elite Boerboel Breeders Association of Southern Africa (EBBASA). At birth Boerboels are registered with one of the associations, and after 12 months the dog is apprasied by the biggest of the associations, the SABT in order to qualify for regisrtation as a breeding dog. A Boerboel must achieve a minimum rating of 75% or 80%. This breed is not recommended for apartment life. They at least need to have a large fenced yard in able to run and get plenty of exercise. Boerboels can live for 10-12 yrs.

Health

Hip Dysplasia, thyriod problems, bloat, heart issues, and eye problems.