Breeds
/
Boerboel

Boerboel

Choosing a Boerboel: Energy Level, Trainability & Family Fit in Canada

The Boerboel is a powerful South African mastiff bred for farm guardianship. Steady, confident, and devoted—best for experienced owners who provide training, structure, and space.

Breed Group
Activity Level
Moderate
Size Category
Extra Large
Coat Type
Short
Coat Texture
Smooth
Activity Level
Moderate
Trainability
High
Shedding Level
Moderate
Family Friendly
With Older Kids
Apartment Friendly
No
Hypoallergenic
No
Breed Type
Purebred

Breed History of the Boerboel

Developed in South Africa as a farm guardian, the Boerboel (meaning “farmer’s dog”) protected homesteads and livestock, valued for its courage and discernment.

Boerboel Appearance: Size, Coat & Distinctive Features

Athletic and well-balanced with hallmark breed features.

  • Weight: 110–200 lb (50–90+ kg)
  • Height: 22–27 in (56–69 cm)
  • Coat type: Short, dense coat
  • Coat colors: Fawn, red, brown, brindle; may have limited white markings
  • Distinctive traits: Massive, muscular frame; broad head; deep chest

How to Groom a Boerboel: Coat Care & Maintenance

Low-maintenance coat with routine care.

  • Brushing: Weekly rubber curry or bristle brush.
  • Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks or as needed.
  • Nails/Teeth: Routine trims and dental care.

Boerboel Exercise Needs: Daily Activity & Playtime Tips

Moderate needs focusing on joint-friendly work.

  • Daily duration: 45–60 minutes.
  • Activities: Leashed walks, obedience, nosework, yard patrols.
  • Safety: Solid fencing and responsible handling are essential.

Training a Boerboel: Behavior, Commands & Socialization

Confident, strong-willed—requires fair leadership and early socialization.

  • Approach: Positive reinforcement with clear boundaries.
  • Focus areas: Neutrality, impulse control, manners with strangers.
  • Management: Teach calm settle and reliable recall.

Boerboel Diet: Feeding Schedule & Nutrition Tips

Giant-breed management to protect joints and longevity.

  • Food type: Large/giant-breed formula or balanced fresh.
  • Quantity: ~4–6+ cups/day in 2 meals; adjust to condition.
  • Note: Consider bloat precautions; avoid strenuous activity post-meal.

Boerboel Health Issues: Common Problems & Lifespan

Work with breeders who screen breeding stock comprehensively.

  • Orthopedic: Hip/elbow dysplasia.
  • Cardiac: Screening recommended.
  • Life expectancy: 9–11 years.

Where to Adopt or Find Boerboel Puppies in Canada

Seek experienced, ethical kennels or consider adult rescue placements.

  • Breeders: Club referrals; ask for hips/elbows/heart results.
  • Rescue: Mastiff/guardian-breed rescues.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Boerboel

Are Boerboels good family dogs?
Often devoted, but size/guarding instincts require experienced handling.

Apartment-friendly?
No—best with a yard and space.

Do they shed?
Moderately; weekly brushing helps.

Trainability?
High with consistent, fair leadership.

Exercise needs?
Moderate; prioritize joint-friendly work.

Dog Name Generator – Find the Perfect Name for Your puppy!

Looking for the perfect name for your ? Whether your puppy is playful and goofy, calm and regal, or a bundle of boundless energy, our AI-powered Dog Name Generator is here to help. Barkley, our dog-loving AI assistant, will suggest personalized names based on your pup’s personality, appearance, and your preferred naming style.
  • personalities – Names that reflect your pups gentle, friendly nature.
  • Choose your naming style – Cute, strong, nature-inspired, or a quirky wildcard.
  • Fast, fun, and free – Get unique names in under a minute.
Dog Name Generator

Other Working Dogs

Yakutian Laika
Tosa
Tornjak
Tibetan Mastiff
Standard Schnauzer
Slovensky Cuvac
Siberian Husky
Sarplaninac
Samoyed
Saint Bernard
Rottweiler
Pyrenean Mastiff
Portuguese Water Dog
Presa Canario
Perro de Presa Canario
Newfoundland
Neapolitan Mastiff
Landseer
Maremma Sheepdog
Leonberger
Kuvasz
Komondor
Karelian Bear Dog
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Great Dane

Breed Related Articles

Dog playing in park
Curious which dogs are the easiest to train? This guide reveals the smartest dog breeds in Canada, from the quick-thinking Border Collie and loyal German Shepherd to the adaptable Poodle and Golden Retriever. Learn how intelligence affects trainability, discover top working, herding, and hybrid breeds, and explore expert tips to keep clever dogs mentally challenged and happy. Whether you’re training a pup or choosing your next companion, these breeds combine brains, obedience, and heart.
Read More
Dog playing in park
Looking for a dog that won’t leave fur everywhere or trigger your allergies? This guide highlights the best low-shedding dog breeds in Canada, from small lapdogs like the Havanese and Maltese to athletic companions such as the Portuguese Water Dog and Standard Poodle. You’ll learn how to manage dander, grooming schedules, and find allergy-friendly dogs that suit your lifestyle — whether you live in a condo or on a country property. Includes top low-shedding mixes like Goldendoodles and Cavapoos, with links to detailed breed profiles for easy exploration.
Read More
Dog playing in park
Looking for the perfect family dog? This guide explores Canada’s most family-friendly breeds by group — from playful Sporting dogs like Labradors and Golden Retrievers to gentle Toy breeds ideal for apartment living. You’ll learn which dogs are best with kids, how to match a breed to your lifestyle, and why hybrids like Goldendoodles have become popular choices for Canadian families. Whether you’re active and outdoorsy or prefer calm cuddles at home, this article helps you find your perfect companion and links directly to detailed breed profiles for every recommendation.
Read More
Dog playing in park
Dog allergies don’t have to stop your family from owning a pup. Discover the top hypoallergenic dog breeds in Canada that are low-shedding, family-friendly, and perfect for allergy-sensitive homes.
Read More