Boerboel
Updated November 30, 2025
The Boerboel is a powerful and intelligent South African mastiff-type breed. Developed as a farm dog to protect against predators, they are known for their courage, loyalty, and calm and stable nature when well-socialized. They are excellent family guardians but require experienced handling.
Confident, Intelligent, Loyal, Territorial, Obedient, Dominant
150-200 pounds
22-27 inches
9-11 years
Brindle, Fawn, Brown, Red, Piebald, Black
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Boerboel
The Boerboel is a powerful and intelligent South African mastiff-type breed. Developed as a farm dog to protect against predators, they are known for their courage, loyalty, and calm and stable nature when well-socialized. They are excellent family guardians but require experienced handling.
What Makes Boerboels Special
The Boerboel is a formidable guardian and a loyal family companion. Their impressive size and strength are matched by their intelligence and devotion. While they can be loving and gentle with their family, they have a serious and protective nature that requires responsible ownership. They are best suited for experienced dog owners who can provide the training, socialization, and environment that this powerful breed needs to thrive.
Boerboel History & Origin
The Boerboel's history is intertwined with the settlement of South Africa. The name 'Boerboel' comes from the Afrikaans/Dutch word 'boer' meaning farmer, and 'boel' which is slang for a large dog. These dogs were developed by Dutch, German, and Huguenot settlers who arrived in South Africa in the mid-1600s. They needed a brave and strong dog to protect their homesteads from predators.
The breed was developed from various European dogs, including Bulldogs and Mastiffs, crossed with indigenous African dogs.
De Beers imported Bullmastiffs to guard diamond mines in the early 1900s, which likely contributed to the Boerboel's development.
The breed was nearly lost but was revived by dedicated breeders in the 1980s.
The American Kennel Club recognized the Boerboel in 2015.
Boerboel Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Boerboel Appearance
The Boerboel is a large, muscular, and well-proportioned dog with a blocky head and a powerful build. Their appearance exudes strength and confidence. Their short coat can come in various shades of brindle, brown, red, or fawn, often with a black mask.
Physical Features
Ears
The Boerboel's ears are medium in size, V-shaped, and set high and wide on the head, hanging down close to the cheeks.
Eyes
Their eyes are medium-sized, round, and forward-facing, with an intelligent and alert expression. The color is typically brown.
Nose
The nose is large with wide-set nostrils and is black in color.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
The Boerboel has a short, smooth, and dense single coat.
Coat Color
Accepted colors include all shades of brindle, fawn, brown, and red. A black mask is common. Piebald and black are also seen.
Tail
The tail is set high and is thick and tapering. While traditionally docked, natural tails are also accepted.
Boerboel Temperament
The Boerboel is a confident and intelligent dog with a strong protective instinct. They are fiercely loyal to their families and can be very affectionate with them, including children they have been raised with. However, they are also territorial and can be wary of strangers. Early and consistent socialization is crucial for this breed to ensure they are well-adjusted and can differentiate between threats and welcome guests. They are known for being calm and stable, but their dominant nature requires an experienced owner who can provide firm and consistent leadership.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Boerboels are a relatively healthy breed with a lifespan of 9-11 years. However, like all large breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions. Responsible breeders will screen for genetic issues.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and appropriate exercise can help mitigate health risks. Early health screening is also recommended.
How to Care for a Boerboel
The Boerboel breed may be small, but their maintenance needs are not. These dogs require regular care and attention to keep them healthy and happy.
Grooming
Training
Diet
Exercise
Environment
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
A large home with a spacious, securely fenced yard is a must.
Climate Adaptability
Adaptable, but prefers temperate or warm climates. Care should be taken in extreme heat.
Apartment Living
Not suitable for apartment living.
Best Suited For
Best suited for active, experienced individuals or families who understand the needs of a powerful guardian breed.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Boerboels good family dogs?
Boerboels can be excellent family dogs and are known to be gentle and protective of children they are raised with. However, their size and strength mean that all interactions with children should be supervised. They are not recommended for families with no experience with large, dominant breeds.
How much exercise do Boerboels need?
Boerboels are a high-energy breed and require at least 60 minutes of vigorous exercise daily to keep them physically and mentally healthy.
Are Boerboels aggressive?
Boerboels have a strong protective instinct and can be aggressive towards strangers or other animals if not properly socialized and trained from a young age. With the right owner, they are calm and stable.
Do Boerboels drool a lot?
They can have a moderate to high tendency to drool, especially after eating or drinking.
Can a Boerboel live in an apartment?
No, Boerboels are not suited for apartment living due to their large size and high exercise requirements.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early socialization with various people, sounds, and other animals is critical. Puppy training classes are highly recommended. A diet formulated for large-breed puppies will support their growth.
Senior Care
As they age, their exercise needs may decrease. Joint supplements may be beneficial. Regular veterinary check-ups are important to monitor for age-related health issues.
First-Time Owner Tips
The Boerboel is not recommended for first-time dog owners due to their size, strength, and dominant nature.
Looking for a Boerboel?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.