The Boerboel , also known as the
South African Mastiff, is a large, Molosser-type breed from South Africa bred
for the purpose of guarding the homestead. These dogs were bred as working farm
dogs and are one of the most powerful dog breeds.
Description
Appearance
The
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.
Coat
The
Boerboel is an average shedder and easy to groom. The occasional brushing and a
monthly bath and nail trim is all that is needed. The breed has an outer coat
that is normally coarse and straight, and an undercoat that is soft and dense.
Its
coat is short, dense, smooth, soft, and shiny. The coat color can be various
shades of red, brown, brindle, black or fawn. Many dogs have a black mask
around their mouth that sometimes extends to their eyes and ears.
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 the 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
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.
Health
Boerboels
are generally known for their good health. However, Boerboels can suffer from
hip or elbow dysplasia, vaginal hyperplasia, ectropion, and entropion.
Recently, juvenile epilepsy (with attacks brought on by metabolic changes or
stress) has appeared in the boerboel breed. A boerboel's behavior and comportment
may change over time. The average life expectancy is ten years.
Temperament
Prospective
owners must recognize that owning a Boerboel requires a significant commitment
in time and energy as they need to be trained and properly socialized in order
to be happy, well-adjusted family members.
These
dogs thrive under positive reinforcement training techniques and require human
companionship and structure. If left isolated, Boerboels will digress and may
become destructive. Owners should be wary of trying to forcefully control the
dog as it is detrimental to their psychological health and could cause
potential behavioral backlash in the future. These dogs benefit from an owner
who respects their size and strength but is not fearful of it.
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