Boerboel

Published: Last updated: by Kyle J. Larson Boerboel

Average size and lifespan

chihuahua silhouette
great dane silhouette
Height: 1ft 11in - 2ft 4in
Weight: 127-200lbs
Lifespan: 10 - 12 Years

Behavior

  • Affection4/5
  • Kid-Friendly3/5
  • Stranger-Friendly1/5
  • Dog-Friendly2/5
  • Barking Amount1/5

Care

  • Grooming Difficulty1/5
  • Shedding Amount2/5
  • Easy to Train3/5
  • Can Be Alone3/5
  • Exercise Need3/5

Environment

  • Cold Tolerance3/5
  • Heat Tolerance3/5
  • Apartment-Friendly1/5

Boerboel Information

BoerboelThe Boerboel is a strong, confident dog with a hulking stature that weighs in at anywhere from 110-220 pounds! The breed hails from South Africa where it was used to defend farmsteads. As such, the Boerboels are a dominant, headstrong breed. If this is your first go-around with a dog or you’ve never had an extra large dog before, we recommend you try another breed first. If you do decide to welcome a Boerboel into your home, be sure to devote plenty of time and energy to training efforts. When you put in the work, you’ll find the Boerboel can be a calm, charming family dog once socialized.

All dogs have their own personality and unique training, causing them to differ slightly from these breed stats. Please let us know if we made an error in the stats.

Breed FAQs

Can Boerboels be apartment dogs?

Boerboels don't do very well in apartments. Another breed is a better fit for apartment living.

Can Boerboels be left alone?

While Boerboels prefer to be around their owners, they can do fairly well when left alone if necessary.

Are Boerboels good with kids?

Boerboels can do fine with kids. They need some monitoring and training so they react well to unpredictable behavior.

Are Boerboels friendly with strangers?

Boerboels are very slow to warm up to strangers. They need a long period of exposure before they trust someone.

Do Boerboels get along with other dogs?

Boerboels aren't usually friendly with other dogs. They tend not to get along unless they are carefully socialized.

Do Boerboels bark a lot?

Boerboels don't bark very often, and some may never bark. Most barking is trained or reserved for extreme situations.

Do Boerboels shed a lot?

The Boerboel isn't a heavy shedder. Some brushing and occasional cleaning should prevent much hair buildup.

Do Boerboels need a lot of grooming?

With a Boerboel you won't need to dedicate extra time to special grooming. Their coats are easy to care for.

Do Boerboels need a lot of exercise?

A Boerboel needs a moderate amount of exercise. Plan some walks or a game of fetch during the day.

Are Boerboels easy to train?

Although Boerboels can be a challenge to train, they can learn with dedicated work or some professional help.

Can Boerboels handle cold weather?

Although Boerboels can handle cold weather when out with you, they may not want to stay out for long.

Can Boerboels handle hot weather?

Although Boerboels can tolerate hot conditions, don't expose them for too long.

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