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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Boerboel
The Boerboel (also known as the South African Mastiff) is a large, molosser-type
breed of dog from South Africa. The word boerboel is Afrikaans for "farmer's dog".
They have a massive, well-balanced head that is wedge shaped. The top of the head
is broad and flat. The muzzle is black and the nose has large nostrils. The loose
upper lip should cover the lower lip but not hang over the jaw. The teeth should
meet in a scissors-bite. The eyes can be any shade of brown and have firm, well-pigmented
eye-lids. The medium-sized ears are v-shaped, sit high and align with the top of
the head. The ears should form a straight line when the dog is alert. The muscular
neck is strong and has loose skin under the throat. The chest is broad and strong.
The topline should be straight. The back paws are slightly smaller than the front
paws. The large, well-padded front paws are round with dark toe nails. Dew claws
should be removed. The short tail is straight and attached high on the body. The
coat is short and dense and comes in cream white, reddish brown, pale tawny, brown
and all shades of brindle.
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Temperament
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The Boerboel is intelligent, obedient and is a strong watchdog and guard dog. They
are playful and patient with children in the household; however, they are leery
of people who they perceive as strangers. They do fine with other animals and dogs
in the household. They love to be around their people and hate being left alone
for long periods. This is a dominant breed that needs a dominant owner. They love
to play ball but their strong jaws may puncture it. Do not fret! They will play
with the flat ball just fine.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 25-28" ; Weight: up to 200 lbs.
Female Height: 23-26" ; Weight: 154-190 lbs.
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Health Problems
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There are no known health concerns associated with this breed.
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Living Conditions
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The Boerboel should not live in an apartment. They need a large, securely-fenced
yard where they can play and run. This is an outdoor breed but they should not be
left to run on their own as they have very strong protective instincts.
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Exercise
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This breed requires lots of daily exercise which should include a long daily walk
or jog. This breed loves a good game of ball.
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Life Expectancy
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About 10-12 years
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Grooming
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This breed is fairly easy to groom. Brush occasionally and bathe monthly. They are
average shedders.
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Origin
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The Boerboel originated in South Africa. When Jan van Riebeeck landed on the Cape
of South Africa, he brought with him his protective mastiff known as a Bullenbitjer.
These heavy and big dogs resembled mastiffs. The Mastiffs had to be strong to survive
the dangers of South Africa. There was no place for the weak. The African Boerboel
was developed through these tough and strong mastiff dogs. Today, the breed is rare
and relatively unknown. They have recently been accepted for recording in the AKC
Foundation Stock Service®.
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Group
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AKC/FSS Working, UKC Guardian Dog
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