Boerboel
Dog
Breeds > B
> Boerboel
Boerboel
A Boerboel is a large, mastiff type dog breed from
South Africa. The word boerboel is Afrikaans for "farmer's
dog".
They are obedient, intelligent,
self-assured and bred to have an extremely strong guard-dog
instinct. Perhaps surprisingly, this does not make the dog
a vicious unsociable animal, because the Boerboel was in
constant proximity to the farmers and their children, a
badly behaved or aggressive dog was unacceptable and would,
perhaps rather harshly, have been put down. This very selective
and practical breeding ethic has created a loving pet with
an even temperament that is happiest in a family environment
for which he can put his protective instincts into action
when required.
Appearance
The ideal height for male Boerboels is from 64 to 70 cm
(24 to 27 inches) at the withers. The height for bitches
is usually 59 to 65 cm (23 to 26 inches).
Temperament
Boerboels are intelligent, reliable, and obedient, with
a strong watchdog instinct. They are self-assured and fearless,
but responsive to the needs of the family. Like other dogs
with a strong guard instinct, the boerboel needs to be watched
around strangers and introduced to friends early on to avoid
aggression.
Dog
Training