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About This Breed

Common Nickname(s): South African Mastiff, African Boerboel
Dog Group: Working Group
Size: 23-28 inches tall, 120-170 lbs.
Lifespan: 9-11 years
Energy Level: Medium
Coat: Short, dense, and sleek
Shedding: Moderate
Hypoallergenic: No

History: The Boerboel is the only South African dog that was created to protect the home or farm. The word “Boerboel” comes from the Afrikaans/Dutch word “boer,” which means “farmer.” The breed’s exact origins are unknown, but experts think that the Boerboel descended from African dog breeds, as well as breeds brought into South Africa by Dutch, French, and English settlers. These dogs were bred over the centuries to eventually create the Boerboel as we know it today. The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially registered the Boerboel in 2015 into the Working dog group.

Temperament: The Boerboel can function as both a loving family dog and an excellent protector. Their protective instincts, strength, and size makes them a poor choice for inexperienced dog owners or those unable to devote the time and effort into training. The Boerboel needs lots of socialization in order to become a well-adjusted companion. In the right home, however, these dogs are gentle giants. They tend to be very calm and docile, and they are also very affectionate with their families. When trained properly, Boerboels can do very well with children.