Introduction

The colossal Boerboel, also known as the South African Mastiff, was originally developed as a powerful protector of South African farms, guarding against formidable predators such as hyenas and lions. Although these remarkable dogs have been loyal working companions for centuries, it wasn’t until the 1980s that dedicated efforts began to preserve and refine the Boerboel breed, as noted by leading breed associations.

Measuring an impressive 22–27 inches tall and tipping the scales at up to 200 pounds, Boerboels serve as outstanding guardians for livestock. Yet beneath their formidable exterior lies a loving, calm temperament, especially gentle with children and devoted to their family. With their keen intelligence and easy trainability, Boerboels are a captivating choice for devoted owners. However, their immense size coupled with a strong need for both physical exercise and mental enrichment means they thrive best under the care of experienced dog parents.

Caring for a Boerboel

The Boerboel’s tender giant personality and relatively simple grooming may give novice pet owners a false sense of ease. In reality, these confident and independently minded dogs can be quite the handful.

Deeply loyal to their family, Boerboels typically do well with children but are naturally cautious around strangers, instinctively alerting to perceived threats. Welcoming a Boerboel puppy into your home means committing early to thorough socialization and steady training to ensure your dog adapts comfortably to new environments and people.

Boerboel Health Issues

As with many giant breeds, Boerboels tend to have a shorter lifespan, generally living around 9 to 11 years. Throughout their lives, they may be prone to a variety of health concerns, though responsible breeders carefully screen to minimize hereditary conditions within the breed.

Eye Problems

Boerboels may be susceptible to certain eyelid disorders, including ectropion, where the eyelid rolls outward, leaving the eye exposed and irritated, and entropion, where inward-rolling eyelids cause eyelashes to irritate the eye’s surface. These conditions can often be corrected with straightforward surgical treatments prescribed by veterinarians.

Elbow and Hip Dysplasia

Elbow and hip dysplasia are joint disorders where the bones of the elbow or hip fail to align properly, causing painful grinding and eventual loss of joint function. While these issues often have a hereditary component in Boerboels, environmental factors such as exercise routines, weight management, and nutritional support also play critical roles. X-rays can help diagnose the severity, and treatment varies according to individual needs.

Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a heart disease affecting the muscles, reducing their ability to pump blood efficiently. This condition, sometimes influenced by diet or infections, has a genetic predisposition in breeds like the South African Boerboel.

DCM can develop at any age, with early warnings including lethargy, weakness, and diminished stamina. As the disease progresses, symptoms may escalate to coughing, rapid breathing, and a swollen abdomen. Though serious, early diagnosis and treatment with appropriate medications can noticeably enhance a dog’s quality and length of life.

Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) is a medical emergency often seen in deep-chested breeds like the Boerboel. This serious type of bloat occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists, blocking normal outflow and placing tremendous pressure on vital organs and blood flow.

Many deep-chested dogs undergo preventive gastropexy surgery, which tacks the stomach in place and helps avert GDV.

If you notice any signs of GDV, seek emergency veterinary care immediately:

• Swollen, distended abdomen
• Attempting to vomit without producing anything
• Excessive drooling
• Displaying signs of severe abdominal pain such as standing and stretching

What To Feed a Boerboel

Generally, Boerboels thrive on a high-quality large-breed diet tailored to their life stage—whether puppy, adult, or senior. However, the best food choice ultimately depends on your individual dog’s health profile. Your veterinarian can provide valuable guidance to match your Boerboel’s nutritional needs with premium ingredients.

How To Feed a Boerboel

Due to their deep chest conformation, Boerboels are at increased risk for GDV and bloat. To help prevent these life-threatening conditions, dividing daily meals into two or three smaller portions is ideal. Avoid using elevated bowls or allowing vigorous activity immediately before or after feeding.

How Much Should You Feed a Boerboel?

Fully grown Boerboels typically weigh between 150 and 200 pounds, necessitating a substantial daily food intake—often up to 10 cups of high-quality kibble or appropriate alternatives. It’s important to budget for this much nourishment and keep in close touch with your vet to adjust quantity based on your dog’s activity and condition.

Nutritional Tips for Boerboels

For Boerboels facing joint concerns such as elbow or hip dysplasia, supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin can provide support. Omega-3 fatty acids also play a key role in maintaining joint flexibility, alongside boosting skin and coat health for a vibrant appearance.

Boerboel Personality and Temperament

At home, Boerboels are typically composed and composed. Their naturally gentle disposition makes them great companions for families with older children accustomed to respectful interactions. Due to their size, homes without very small kids are often preferable to avoid accidental injury. When raised together, Boerboels often cohabitate peacefully with other household pets.

Boerboel Behavior

Despite their calm home presence, Boerboels are surprisingly nimble for a Mastiff-shaped dog and require consistent mental and physical activity. Daily long walks on leash or fun sessions in a securely fenced yard satisfy their energy demands. Without proper outlets, these dogs risk boredom, which may lead to destructive chewing.

Boerboel Training

Because Boerboels are natural protectors, they tend to be wary of unfamiliar people, animals, and situations. Early, consistent socialization paired with positive reinforcement training is essential to build trust and appropriate behavior.

With firm yet patient leadership, Boerboels’ sharp minds enable them to excel in obedience and agility training.

Fun Activities for Boerboels

• Obedience competitions
• Agility courses
• Weight-pull events
• Livestock herding and stock work

Boerboel Grooming Guide

With their short coat and moderate shedding, Boerboels usually require minimal grooming to look their best.

Skin Care

While Boerboels generally have resilient skin, their distinctive wrinkles and heavy drooling mean owners spend extra time wiping their faces. A damp cloth or dog-safe facial wipes are effective for removing drool and food trapped in folds to prevent irritation.

Coat Care

Their short, dense coat sheds moderately and benefits from weekly brushing to remove loose hairs. Baths are only necessary about once a month unless your dog gets particularly dirty.

Eye Care

Though Boerboels aren’t commonly plagued by eye issues aside from ectropion and entropion, regular gentle cleaning can help avoid tear staining and infections.

Ear Care

Routine ear cleaning with a veterinary-recommended cleanser keeps the ear canals healthy, particularly after swimming or baths.

Considerations for Pet Parents

Boerboels offer loyal and affectionate companionship but demand early socialization to overcome natural suspicion toward strangers. Owners experienced in dog training and dedicated to nurturing their puppy’s social skills will give these giants the best chance to flourish.

Prospective owners must also respect the Boerboel’s impressive size. These hefty dogs need ample space and a secure, fenced yard to move about comfortably. Apartment living or cramped quarters are ill-suited to this breed’s lifestyle and physical needs.

Is a Boerboel a good family dog?

Absolutely. Boerboels are known for their loving, gentle nature within the family and are typically kind and patient with children who know how to engage with dogs respectfully.

Is a Boerboel bigger than a Cane Corso?

Yes, Boerboels are generally larger. Adult Boerboels weigh between 150 and 200 pounds, significantly outweighing Cane Corsos, which usually range from 88 to 110 pounds.

What is the average Boerboel lifespan?

Boerboels typically live between 9 and 11 years.