History of the breed.
Origin and name. The South African Boerboel was bred in South Africa in the 17th and 18th centuries to protect livestock farms from wild animals and thieves. These dogs were bred from various local breeds such as the Boerboel, Bantam, Mastiff, and others. The name of the breed comes from the Dutch word “boerboel,” which means “farm dog.”
Use as guard dogs. South African Boerboels are considered one of the best guarding breeds in the world. They are used to protect livestock farms, and as guards in industrial facilities and private homes.
Description of the breed
Appearance. The South African Boerboel is a large, muscular dog with a broad head and powerful build. These dogs have short, smooth and dense coats that have a glossy sheen. They also have pronounced creases on the face and neck.
Size and weight. The South African Boerboel is a large breed of dog, adults reach a height at the withers of 61 to 66 cm, and their weight can range from 50 to 80 kg.
Color of coat. The color of the South African boerboel can vary from yellow and reddish to brown and black.
Character and Characteristics
Characteristics. The South African Boerboels are very loyal to their owners, but have a strong character and can be aggressive if they feel threatened by their family or their territory. They are very intelligent and can learn behavior commands, but they require patience and persistence in training.
Training and rearing characteristics. Training and raising the South African Boerboel takes a lot of time and effort. Owners need to be persistent and disciplined so that the dog does not accept the role of leader in the family. Training should begin at an early age and should be consistent and structured.
Health and Breed Care. South African Boerboels, like many large breeds, can be susceptible to some diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia, heart and eye problems. Therefore, owners should visit their veterinarian regularly for preventive examinations and checkups.
Tips for caring for the South African Boerboel
Feeding. South African Boerboels are large and require an appropriate amount of food. It is recommended to feed them a high quality commercial large breed food, divided into several meals per day. It is important to monitor your dog’s weight and health to avoid problems with obesity.
Training and Exercise. South African boerboels are very energetic and need regular exercise, such as walking, running, and playing outdoors. It is important to remember that these dogs are not suitable for living in an apartment or on a small plot of land. They need a spacious yard or garden to fulfill their daily physical activity requirements.
Coat and Skin Care. The South African Boerboel’s coat care requires little to no care. Their short and smooth coat does not shed much, but requires daily brushing to avoid lumps and dandruff. It is also important to monitor the condition of the skin and clean the dog’s ears and teeth regularly.
Health and disease prevention. Like all dog breeds, South African Boerboels need preventive vaccinations and regular health checkups from the veterinarian. It’s also important to keep your dog’s teeth healthy and cleaned regularly to avoid plaque and gum disease.
Top 10 facts about the South African Boerboel:
- The South African Boerboel was bred in the 17th and 18th centuries in South Africa to protect farms from wild animals and thieves.
- The name of the breed comes from the Dutch word “boerboel,” which means “farm dog.”
- South African Boerboels are considered one of the best guarding breeds in the world.
- These dogs have a large build, reaching a weight of 50 to 80 kg and a height at withers from 61 to 66 cm.
- South African Boerboel coat color can vary from yellow and reddish to brown and black.
- South African Boerboels are very loyal to their owners, but have a strong character and can be aggressive if they feel threatened by their family or their territory.
- Training and raising the South African Boerboel takes a lot of time and effort, and owners need to be persistent and disciplined.
- South African Boerboels need regular exercise and may be prone to some diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia, heart and eye problems.
- The South African Boerboel’s coat care is easy, their short and smooth coat does not shed much, but does require daily brushing.
- The South African Boerboel is a dog breed that requires a lot of attention and care from its owners, but can be the perfect companion and protector for the family.
Conclusion
The South African Boerboel is a large, strong, and loyal dog breed that is ideal for home and family protection. However, like all breeds, they need plenty of care and attention from owners. If you are willing to devote the time and effort to caring for the South African Boerboel, he will be the perfect companion and protector for you and your family.
