Nickname         : Dog of the Boers

Breed Origins  : South Africa ( 1800’s )

Breed usage      : Herding & Guarding

Dog Weight       : 155 - 200 Pounds

Dog Height        : 23 to 28 inches to the shoulder

History
Boerboel can claim its ancestry to the Molosser Dogs. The Romans believed that the Molosser type of dogs were obtained by crossing a dog and a lion. The Boerboel is not a pure bred dog and has descended from the cross-breeding of Pit Bulls, Mastiffs and Rottweilers. These dogs were brought to South Africa by European settlers in the 1800’s and cross breeding produced the Boerboel. The literal meaning of the Boerboel is taken from Dog of the Boers. The Boerboel has been classified as one of the Working Dog Group. As there is not a specific breed standard Boerboel is not Registered by the AKC (American Kennel Club) and is therefore in the category of dogs termed Unrecognised & Rare Breeds.

All Information and Tips About This Dog :

• Character and Temperament
  Dogs in the Working group, which include the Boerboel, were developed to perform a wide variety of tasks, such as herding, droving, pulling, hauling, herding, hunting, rescuing and guarding. The very nature of many of these tasks require a big, strong dog. These dogs have a long and close association with man and have provided invaluable help to their owners. The working dogs are generally large, intelligent, and protective of their masters. Working dogs have always been viewed as real assets to their owners and have worked with man replacing larger animals such as horses when none such animals were available. Advanced technology and machinery have negated some of the working requirements of these dogs but strength, courage and a fast reactions ensure that this partnership will continue long into the future.Working dogs, like the Boerboel, are medium to giant size and are strong, often independent, domineering and difficult to manage. This, together with the immense sizes of many of the breeds, make many of the working dogs unsuitable as a normal family pet or first time dog owners. These dogs require firm control and must be properly trained. Formal obedience training should include a proper socialising program. Training need not be difficult as Working dog breeds are generally quick to learn and intelligent.

• Coat and Colours information
  The Boerboel’s coat is normally a shade of yellow, white, brindle, brown, & grey with or without white markings . The outer coat is normally coarse and straight - undercoat is soft and dense.

• Health information - potential health problems
  Resolving dog health problems, including those of the Boerboel, can prove to be costly and it would be wise to consider the benefits of obtaining dog health insurance. Common health problems and questions occur in relation to the Bones, Joints, Muscles, Nerves, Ears, Eyes, Teeth and the Mouth. Other, more serious, issues can relate to the Digestive System, Heart & Respiratory Systems, Immune & Blood Systems, Reproduction and Urinary Systems. There are no common health problems attributed to the Boerboel.
  • The life expectancy for this particular breed is 10 – 12 years.

• Grooming and Care
  Boerboel requires weekly care and grooming. Grooming consists of not only brushing out the coat and bathing but also giving attention to the eyes, teeth, ears, feet and nails. A regular routine also ensures that any potential health problems are identified as quickly as possible.