South African Boerboel Dog Breed

The Boerboel is a large, mastiff-type dog breed from South Africa that is bred to guard the homestead and work the farm. They are one of the most powerful dog breeds in the world and have an estimated bite force around 800-850 PSI.

South african boerboel breeding is both a hobby and an industry in South Africa. These dogs are now exported from South Africa to other parts of the world. Due to its use as a farm dog which brought it into conflict with large African predators such as lions, the south african boerboel has been artificially selected for the ability to protect themselves and others. Individual South african boerboels have been documented killing Adult male leopards.

Breed history

The word “Boerboel” derives from “boer”, Afrikaans/Dutch for the farmer, and “boel”, old Afrikaans/Dutch for the dog. Boerboel, therefore, translates as either “farmer’s dog” or “Boer’s dog” and should be pronounced somewhat like “boo-er-bool.” The South african boerboel is the only South African dog breed created to defend the homestead.

Despite the South african boerboel’s long breeding history, there is great uncertainty as to how many and which breeds were used to create it. It is generally believed that the breed was created from interbreeding native African landrace dogs, such as the Africanis, with breeds brought into South Africa by Dutch, French, and British settlers.

The most likely origins date back to Jan van Riebeeck’s arrival to the Cape in 1652, who brought with him a “Bullenbijter”, which is Dutch slang for Bulldog. Other original and later European settlers brought large, strong dogs that almost certainly bred with the indigenous domestic dog breeds of South Africa.

In the early 1860s, when military posts were scattered across the South African frontier, bloodhounds, staghounds, greyhounds, bulldogs, terriers, mastiffs, pointers, and occasionally foxhounds were to be found at each post. The Boer dog was a cross between these breeds. It was generally in the vicinity of military posts where the best Boer dogs were to be found. In addition, the best dogs for hunting leopards and baboons were a cross between a mastiff and a bulldog.

Later, in 1928, the diamond mining company De Beers imported Bullmastiffs to South Africa to guard the mines. This breed was also crossbred with South african boerboels in the region.

Appearance

The South african boerboel is a large dog, with a strong bone structure and well-developed muscles. The head appears blocky, but not overdone, with a short length between the stop and nose. It should look impressive, carrying himself with confidence and powerful movement, which should be buoyant, and unencumbered, despite its size. It should be symmetrical and balanced, following the desired proportions for the breed. Males should be markedly bigger than females, there is a distinct sexual dimorphism, with the female less prominently developed physically.

Temperament

Boerboels are an intelligent and energetic breed. They are loyal, great with children, and tend to be protective of their family and territory.

They are quite charming when not being lazy, and will not hesitate to defend their loved ones to death.

They are often called “Velcro” dogs, always wanting to be with their owners, and so, are not prone to wandering off on their own.

The South african boerboel also requires training and firm handling from an early age. It is not unusual for this breed to display aggression toward other dogs or strangers.

The protective character of the South african boerboel is still evident and is much sought after, as is the calm, stable, and confident composure of the breed. The dogs are obedient and intelligent and have strong territorial instincts. The South african boerboel remains the guarding breed of choice amongst current day farmers and is very popular for the same reason in urban communities.

Exercise Requirements:

Here are some tips for meeting a South african boerboel’s exercise needs:

• Daily Walks: South african boerboels should have at least one long walk per day, ideally lasting 30 to 45 minutes. Walking not only provides physical exercise but also mental stimulation by allowing them to explore new environments and smells.
• Running and Jogging: South african boerboels love to run and jog, and this can be a great way to provide them with a higher intensity workout. However, it is important to build up their endurance gradually to prevent injuries.
• Interactive Play: South african boerboels enjoy playing with toys and engaging in interactive games with their owners. Playing fetch or tug-of-war can be a great way to provide both physical and mental stimulation.
• Swimming: South african boerboels are natural swimmers, and swimming can be an excellent low-impact workout for them. It is important to supervise them while swimming and make sure they have access to a safe and clean water source.
• Agility Training: South african boerboels are intelligent and trainable, and they often excel in agility training. This type of training provides both physical exercise and mental stimulation, as the dogs must navigate obstacles and follow commands.

Overall, South african boerboels require a lot of physical activity to keep them healthy and happy. Owners should be prepared to provide daily exercise and varied activities to keep their South african boerboel mentally stimulated and physically fit.

Grooming Needs

South african boerboels have a short, dense coat that requires minimal grooming. However, regular grooming can help keep their coat healthy and shiny, and also provides an opportunity for owners to check for any skin or coat issues.

Here are some tips for grooming a South african boerboel:

Brushing: South african boerboels have a short, dense coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. Brushing their coat once or twice a week with a soft-bristled brush or a grooming glove can help remove loose hair, dirt, and debris. This also stimulates the skin and distributes natural oils, keeping the coat shiny and healthy.

Bathing: South african boerboels do not require frequent bathing, as their coat naturally repels dirt and odors. Bathing every 3-4 months or when they get especially dirty is usually sufficient. Use a mild dog shampoo and conditioner, and make sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid any skin irritation.

Nail Trimming: South african boerboels have strong, fast-growing nails that require regular trimming. Long nails can cause discomfort or even injury to the dog, so trimming every 4-6 weeks is recommended. If you are not comfortable trimming your dog’s nails yourself, a professional groomer or veterinarian can do it for you.

Dental Care: Dental care is important for South african boerboels to maintain their oral health. Brush their teeth regularly using a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, and provide dental chews or toys to help remove plaque and tartar.

Ear Cleaning: South african boerboels are prone to ear infections due to their floppy ears, so regular ear cleaning is important. Use a gentle ear cleaning solution and a soft cloth to wipe the inside of the ear, but avoid inserting anything into the ear canal.

By following these grooming tips, owners can keep their South african boerboel looking and feeling their best. Regular grooming also provides a bonding opportunity between the owner and their dog.

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