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Boerboel Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Boerboel so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Working Dogs
Popularity Rank124
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Boerboel dog profile picture
OriginSouth Africa flagSouth Africa
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Boerboel known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
South African MastiffSouth African Boerboel
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Boerboel? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Purebred

Boerboel Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Boerboel? Learn how big the Boerboel breed typically grows.
LargeGiant
Weight Statistics
How much does a Boerboel weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Boerboel breed.
154-200 pounds (70-90 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Boerboel?
177 pounds (80 kg)
Height
How tall is the Boerboel? Boerboel height:
Male: 25-28 inches (64-70 cm), Female: 23-25.5 inches (59-65 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Boerboel?
Male: 26.5 inches (67 cm), Female: 23-25.5 inches (62 cm)

Boerboel Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Boerboel puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Boerboel costs.
$1500-$2000
If you choose to purchase the Boerboel, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Boerboel for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Boerboel gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Boerboel? How many Boerboel are there in the world?
Frequent: The Boerboel is easier than average to get. Maybe there is some risk of overbreeding, as it is a popular breed.

Due to its popularity, inbreeding may occur. A new study shows that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful and seek the help of an experienced person or a professional, in making your decision.

Boerboel Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Boerboel? Discover the Boerboel's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one. Keep in mind that if you want to teach them any tricks, they understand and memorize new commands in 40-80 repetitions. Boerboel obey the first command 30% of the time or better. So if you want to have a smart dog, you might have to reconsider your choice with this breed.

The Boerboel ranks below average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Boerboel? Learn about the Boerboel's trainability and response to training methods.
Boerboel dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Boerboel as a watchdog? Learn about the Boerboel's alertness and guarding instincts.
Boerboel dogs are one of the best watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're very consistent in their effort. The best vocal cords and sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're very territorial and protective about their property, so the Boerboel dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Territorial Protection
Is a Boerboel protective of its territory? Learn about the Boerboel's guarding instincts and behavior.
Boerboel dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Boerboel can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Boerboel will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Boerboel Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Boerboel have? Learn about characteristic Boerboel temperament and behavior traits.
IntelligentConfidentObedientDominantTerritorial
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Boerboel sensitivity:
Boerboel dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.

Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Boerboel a good family dog?
Average: Boerboel dogs are average dogs regarding their affection level. Some breeds are forthcoming and friendly, while others are independent and don't bond too closely with their owners.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the South African Mastiff need? Boerboel social needs:
Boerboel dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Boerboel to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Boerboel roam?
The wanderlust potential of the Boerboel is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Boerboel have high prey drive?
Boerboel dogs have an average prey drive, which means that they don't have a high impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals, but it might happen. Training can help to achieve good behavior.

Boerboel Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Boerboel bark a lot? Learn about typical Boerboel vocalization patterns and triggers.
Low to Average: The Boerboel rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Boerboel? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Boerboel breed.
Average: Boerboels, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Boerboel live in an apartment? Learn about the Boerboel's suitability for apartment living.
It is not recommended to keep the Boerboel breed in the home. It does best in the garden, but if you do want to keep it indoors, it should be exercised thoroughly with long daily walks, so you can keep the Boerboel indoors by introducing daily routines.

Boerboel Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Boerboel to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Boerboel's flexibility to new situations.
Average: Boerboel dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Boerboel be left alone? Learn about the Boerboel's tolerance to solitude.
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Boerboel Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Boerboel biting potential? Learn about the Boerboel's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The Boerboel has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Boerboel mouthy? Learn about the Boerboel's tendency to use mouth during play.
Boerboel dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Boerboel dogs need to be taught a good attitude.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Boerboel bite? Learn about the Boerboel's bite force measured in PSI.

Above 400 PSI 🔼

Boerboel bite force: The Strongest. The Boerboel bite force is among the strongest in the canine world. The bite force Boerboel measurements are typically quite high, which is a testament to their powerful and large stature. The bite force of Boerboel dogs is impressive, and their Boerboel bite PSI is reflective of their powerful nature.

The Boerboel PSI bite should be respected, and appropriate precautions should be taken when interacting with these dogs. The PSI of a Boerboel bite is high, making them one of the strongest breeds in terms of bite force.

They are very protective of themselves and their families, therefore a dog bite from them could be exceptionally dangerous with their PSI being above 400.

To ensure a well-behaved and controlled dog, it's important to learn how to train a Boerboel puppy not to bite from an early age. It is important that they’re trained to be around others safely.

Boerboel Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Boerboel live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Boerboel breed.
10-12 years
The average lifespan of Boerboel: 11 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Boerboel handle different weather? Learn about the Boerboel's climate adaptability.
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Boerboel? Discover typical conditions affecting the Boerboel breed.
Boerboels tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. Regular vet check-ups are needed.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Boerboel need vet visits? Learn about the Boerboel's veterinary care requirements.
Frequent
The Boerboel should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Boerboel breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Boerboel breed? Most common health risks of Boerboel:
Hip Dysplasia AllergiesEpilepsyJoint DysplasiaVaginal Hyperplasia

Boerboel Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Boerboel? Understand daily activity needs of the Boerboel breed.
Boerboel dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Boerboel need? How much exercise do Boerboel dogs require per day?

Do Boerboel dogs need a lot of exercises?

Boerboel dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Boerboel breed need?
Boerboel dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.

Boerboel Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Boerboel prone to weight gain? Learn about the Boerboel's obesity risks.
Average: The Boerboel has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Boerboel weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Boerboel need daily? Learn about the Boerboel's feeding requirements.
8 to 10 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two mealsA Boerboel diet should be formulated for a large to giant breed with moderate to high exercise requirements.

Boerboel Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Boerboel hypoallergenic? Learn about the Boerboel's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
Boerboel dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Boerboel come in? Discover all possible Boerboel color variations.
Red Cream BrownTawny Brindle Reddish
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Boerboel need? Learn about Boerboel coat maintenance requirements.
Effortless: The Boerboel requires minimal grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned sometimes to avoid infections. Boerboel is one of the best choices if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Highly recommended for beginners.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Boerboel drool a lot? Learn about the Boerboel's drooling habits.
The Boerboel drools quite a lot, so if you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, you may want to choose another dog breed. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool more than others, just like the Boerboel.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Boerboel smell bad? Learn about the Boerboel's natural odor levels.

Medium

The Boerboel has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Boerboel have? Learn about the Boerboel's fur characteristics.
DenseShinySmooth
Bathing Needs
How often does a Boerboel need baths? Learn about the Boerboel's bathing requirements.
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Shedding Level
How much do Boerboel dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the South African Mastiff? Do Boerboel dogs shed a lot?
Boerboel dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.

Boerboel Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Boerboel good with children? Learn about the Boerboel's behavior around kids of different ages.
Boerboel dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Boerboel get along with other pets? Discover the Boerboel's compatibility with other animals.
Boerboel dogs usually don’t get on well with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Boerboel temperament with other people:
Boerboel dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Cat Friendly
How well do Boerboel dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Boerboel breed live with a cat?
Boerboel dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Boerboel good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Boerboel dogs get along with other dogs?
Boerboel dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Boerboel is not a good choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Boerboel breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Boerboel breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Boerboel dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Boerboel dogs good office canines? Do Boerboel dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Boerboel is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Boerboel dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the South African Mastiff temperament with senior people? Are Boerboel dogs good for elderly owners?
Boerboels are usually recommended for elderly people.

Boerboel As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Boerboel be a service dog? Learn about the Boerboel's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Boerboel is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Boerboel good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Boerboel's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Boerboel is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Boerboel good at detection work? Learn about the Boerboel's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Boerboel is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Boerboel do search and rescue? Learn about the Boerboel's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Boerboel is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Boerboel good on boats? Learn about the Boerboel's maritime capabilities.

Not really

Boerboel breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Boerboel pull carts? Learn about the Boerboel's drafting abilities.

Yes

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Boerboel breed is a good choice for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Boerboel used in military service? Learn about the Boerboel's military history.

Yes

In history, this breed was unfortunately used for combat dogs. A combat dog is a specially trained dog that is used in warfare to help protect military personnel and assets. Combat dogs are often deployed in areas where there is potential for contact with the enemy, such as during raids or search operations. Combat dogs are typically assigned to either infantry or special operations units. They are used for a variety of tasks including area security, sentry duty, trackers, and explosive detection. In addition to their combat roles, combat dogs also play an important role in troop morale by providing companionship and emotional support.

Boerboel Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Boerboel usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
7-10 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Boerboel pregnant? Learn about the Boerboel's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Boerboel: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Boerboel have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Boerboel Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Boerboel in? Learn about the Boerboel's AKC classification.
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2015 as a Working breed.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Boerboel in? Learn about the Boerboel's international classification.
Not recognized by FCI.
Kennel Club Recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize a Boerboel? Learn about the Boerboel's official recognition.
American Kennel ClubAmerica's Pet RegistryDog Registry of America Inc.North American Purebred Registry, Inc.

Boerboel Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Grooming Requirements: Effortless: The Boerboel requires minimal grooming.
  • Watchdog Rating: Boerboel dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Child Compatibility: Boerboel dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Boerboels are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Boerboel dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Draft Work Capability: A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
Cons
  • Intelligence Rating: Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
  • Health Concerns: Boerboels tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
  • Allergy Friendliness: Boerboel dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Adaptability: It is not recommended to keep the Boerboel breed in the home.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Boerboel drools quite a lot, so if you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, you may want to choose another dog breed.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the Boerboel is strong enough to escape from home.
  • Cat Friendly: Boerboel dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Boerboel dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Boerboel is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Rate The Boerboel Breed

Boerboel Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • JLN115

    Jul 17, 2019, 3:52:08 PM:

    Literally will not find a better guard dog!!