Boerboels Explained
Understanding the South African Mastiff
What is a Boerboel?
The Boerboel (pronounced "boo-r-bull") is a large, mastiff-type breed from South Africa. The name derives from the Afrikaans words "boer" meaning farmer and "boel" meaning dog. These powerful dogs were bred by farmers to protect homesteads from predators and intruders.
Boerboels are known for their impressive size, strength, and loyal, protective nature. They are confident, intelligent, and deeply devoted to their families. When properly raised and socialized, they make excellent family companions and guardians.
History & Origins
The Boerboel's history dates back to the 1600s when Dutch, German, and Huguenot settlers arrived in South Africa. These settlers brought with them large, strong dogs that were crossbred with indigenous African dogs and other breeds brought by later settlers.
Over centuries of selective breeding in the harsh South African environment, the Boerboel evolved into a formidable protector. These dogs had to guard remote farms against dangerous wildlife including lions, leopards, hyenas, and baboons, while also being gentle enough to live closely with farm families and their children.
The breed nearly became extinct in the early 20th century due to urbanization and crossbreeding. However, dedicated breed enthusiasts in South Africa began a revival effort in the 1980s, traveling to remote farms to find purebred specimens and establish breeding programs.
SABBS & Breed Registration
South African Boerboel Breeders Society (SABBS)
The South African Boerboel Breeders Society (SABBS) is the original and premier registry for the Boerboel breed. Founded in 1983, SABBS played a crucial role in the revival and preservation of the Boerboel, establishing the first breed standard and systematic registration process.
SABBS maintains strict breeding standards and requires dogs to be appraised before they can be registered. This appraisal system evaluates dogs against the breed standard, assessing conformation, temperament, and overall breed type. Dogs are given appraisal scores that reflect their quality as breeding specimens.
Appraisal System
SABBS uses a comprehensive appraisal system where certified appraisers evaluate Boerboels on structure, movement, and temperament. Dogs must meet minimum standards to be registered for breeding, ensuring breed quality is maintained.
Breed Preservation
SABBS works to preserve the original Boerboel type—a functional farm dog with the ability to protect while remaining a stable family companion. Their standards emphasize both physical capability and sound temperament.
Other registries such as the American Kennel Club (AKC), which recognized the Boerboel in 2015, and the Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA) also register Boerboels. However, SABBS remains the most specialized registry focused exclusively on maintaining the integrity of the Boerboel breed.
At Peterbuilt Boerboel, we value proper registration and health documentation. We work with reputable registries to ensure our dogs' lineages are documented and their quality is verified.
Breed Standard Highlights
According to the SABBS breed standard, the ideal Boerboel should be a well-balanced dog with powerful, free-flowing movement. The overall impression should be one of strength, athleticism, and agility in a large frame.
Head & Expression
The head is the most distinctive feature of the Boerboel. It should be blocky, broad, and deep, with well-filled cheeks. The expression should be intelligent and confident. The muzzle should be broad and deep, approximately one-third the total length of the head.
Body Structure
The body should be slightly longer than tall, with a strong, muscular build. The chest should be broad and deep, with well-sprung ribs. The back should be straight and strong, leading to muscular hindquarters that provide powerful drive.
Movement
Movement should be powerful and ground-covering, with good reach in front and strong drive from behind. The Boerboel should move with purpose and confidence, demonstrating the athleticism required of a working farm dog.
Temperament
The ideal Boerboel temperament is confident, calm, and stable. They should be naturally protective without being aggressive. A well-bred Boerboel is discerning—able to recognize genuine threats while remaining friendly and approachable in normal situations.
Health & Longevity
Like all large breeds, Boerboels can be susceptible to certain health conditions. Responsible breeders conduct health testing to minimize the risk of hereditary conditions.
Common Health Screenings
- • Hip Dysplasia Evaluation (OFA or PennHIP)
- • Elbow Dysplasia Evaluation
- • Heart Evaluation (Cardiac exam)
- • DNA Genetic Testing
Promoting Longevity
- • Maintain healthy weight to reduce joint stress
- • Provide balanced, high-quality nutrition
- • Regular veterinary check-ups
- • Appropriate exercise (avoid over-exercise in puppies)
- • Mental stimulation and enrichment
Breed Characteristics
Based on the South African Boerboel Breeders Society (SABBS) breed standard
Size
Males: 24-28 inches, 150-200+ lbs
Females: 22-25 inches, 110-150+ lbs
One of the largest dog breeds in the world.
Temperament
Confident, calm, and loyal. Naturally protective but not aggressive when properly socialized. Excellent with family members.
Lifespan
9-11 years on average. Proper health testing and breeding practices can help ensure a longer, healthier life.
Exercise Needs
Moderate exercise requirements. Daily walks and play time are sufficient. They enjoy having space to roam.
Coat & Colors
Short, dense coat that's easy to maintain. Colors include brindle, fawn, brown, and red. Some have black masks.
Training
Intelligent and eager to please, but require consistent, firm leadership. Early socialization is crucial.
Important Considerations
Not for Everyone
Boerboels are not to be taken lightly. They are powerful dogs that require experienced, responsible owners who understand the breed. They cannot be placed into careless hands.
Space Requirements: These large dogs need adequate space to move and exercise. A securely fenced yard is highly recommended.
Socialization: Early and ongoing socialization is critical. Boerboels need exposure to various people, animals, and situations from a young age.
Leadership: Boerboels need clear, consistent leadership. They respond best to confident owners who establish themselves as pack leaders.
Health Testing: When purchasing a Boerboel, ensure the breeder provides health testing documentation including hip and elbow evaluations.
Ready to Learn More?
If you believe a Boerboel is right for your family, we'd love to hear from you.