Boerboel Dog Breed: The Ultimate Guide 2020

Are you searching for large breed dog to love and care? Or perhaps you’re seeking better ways to make your Boerboel happy and satisfied.

You will note that this breed is not only the best guard dog there is but also affectionate, calm and family-friendly, especially towards kids.

Welcome to our ultimate 2020 guide of the Boerboel dog breed.

What Are The Characteristics of Boerboel?

Though Boerboels are ideally calm, low maintenance and are prone to very few health conditions; they are quite a handful to handle especially for new dog parents.

Boerboels are assertive, territorial, great chewers and prone to tugging and pulling. However, if you are equally confident and have plenty of space to exercise this large breed, then you are ready for the challenge.

If you get your training skills right, you’ll be rewarded with a faithful and protective best friend for life.

Below is a full list of the Boerboel breed traits:

1.Boerboel Dog Breed: Adaptability

As you probably know, the Boerboel may be a challenge to train if you are new to dog parenting; however, with assertiveness and consistency, you will succeed to tame this protective dog.

Additionally, you should offer this pet plenty of both indoor and outdoor space to accommodate its large size. The Boerboel also has an unusually high demand for family companionship and long periods of isolation will tear him apart, causing destructive and disobedient behaviour.

Overall, Boerboels score 2 stars for adaptability and here are the reasons why:

• Adapts well to apartment living: The Boerboel gets only 1 star for apartment suitability. This is because of its vast volume and being squeezed into a tiny apartment may not leave much room for you and the dog.
• Suitable for novice owners: Boerboels also score 1 star for suitability to new dog owners. You need to be very firm and assertive if you want to tame this breed.
• Sensitivity level: Boerboels are averagely sensitive, which means they are reasonably tolerant of inconsistent daily routine, house guests and loud music. Therefore, they get a 3-star rating for sensitivity level.
• Tolerates being alone: The Boerboel gets 2 stars for solo tolerance. They love being close with their human companions, thus leaving them alone for too long will lead to panic barks, whining and cries. Proper socialization and spending quality time with your Boerboel will overcome this heinous behaviour.
• Tolerates cold weather: This dog gets a 3-star rating for withstanding cold weather.
• Tolerates hot weather: Boerboels score 4 stars for withstanding warm temperatures. This means they can handle warmth, but extreme degrees will make them prone to heatstroke.

2.All-Around Friendliness

Boerboels are highly protective of their human companions; however, they can be quite aggressive towards strangers and other canines.

With proper socialization and training though, they can be accommodative of an external company.

They score 3 out of 5 stars for all-around friendliness and here’s why:

• Affectionate with family: Boerboels get a 4-star rating for family friendliness. Paired with the right owners, they are very loving, calm, caring and charming.
• Kid-friendly: Boerboels score another whoopee 4 stars for child-friendliness. They are suited to children of all ages.
• Dog friendly: Boerboels are not the most welcoming of stranger dogs; thus, they score 2 stars for dog-friendliness. If you have other dog breeds in your family or would like to join canine meetups, this breed may not be an ideal choice.
• Friendly with strangers: Boerboels score 2 stars for stranger friendliness. This is because they tend to be suspicious and territorial with visitors.

Early socialization and training can help curb this unwanted form of aggression.

3.Health and Grooming Needs

It is a breath of fresh air knowing that Boerboels have few health concerns. They also have minimal grooming requirements, which is absolutely desirable for dog owners who lack the time for grooming.

They, therefore, get 4 stars out of 5 for health and grooming needs. Here are the reasons why:

• Amount of shedding: Boerboels shed averagely; thus, they score 3 stars for shedding level. Consistent brushing helps to reduce the amount of shed hair.
• Drooling potential: Brace yourself for this! The Boerboel drools a lot, which gives it a 4 stars rating for drooling potential. If you are disgusted by slobber stains on your clothes, you may want to select another dog breed.
• Easy to groom: Boerboels score 4 stars for grooming ease. It is effortless to groom a Boerboel, but the seasonal flea treatment is required. However, trimming the dog’s fur by a professional groomer isn’t mandatory.
• General health: The Boerboel is generally a sturdy and healthy breed and scores 4 stars for overall health.
• Potential for weight gain: The Boerboel is relatively prone to weight gain, thus gets 3 stars for overweight potential. Feed your pet high-quality dog food and maintain an active lifestyle to reduce its risk or obesity.
• Size: The Boerboel undeniably scores 5 stars for size. It belongs to the large and giant group of dog breeds.

4.Boerboel Dog Breed: Trainability

Boerboels are relatively easy to train and score 3 out of 5 stars for trainability. If you are an experienced dog owner, this shouldn’t be a challenge for you; however, novice dog parents should brace themselves.

Being remarkably nimble for their size, as well as knowledgeable, Boerboels’ demand for mental and body stimulation is high.

Here are the key reasons that validate the Boerboel’s 3-star rating in trainability:

• Easy to train: Boerboels get 2 stars for training ease. Sometimes, they can be a handful, but if you’re persistent in teaching new commands, they will definitely obey.
• Intelligence: This large canine scores 4 stars for knowledge. Paired with the right owner, it will obey and can be trained quicker than other canine breeds.

Training should begin as soon as you bring your Boerboel home before its size makes it simpler for it to ignore your commands.

• Potential for mouthiness: Boerboels have an average potential to chew, nip or play-bite thus score 3 stars for mouthiness tendency.
• Prey-drive: Boerboels also score 3 stars for prey lust. Thus, they may occasionally chase smaller animals, but this trail trait isn’t an in-built necessity.
• Tendency to bark or howl: The Boerboel has a low to average tendency to bark or howl, therefore scores 2 stars for this quality.

This breed is a perfect choice if you’re seeking a subtle kind. They don’t bark unless when absolutely necessary.

• Wanderlust potential: Boerboels get a high rating of 4 stars when it comes to wanderlust potential. They have a strong impulse for exploration, thus safer to walk them on a leash. Alternatively, you can teach your Boerboel to get back to you on command.

5.Boerboel Dog Breed: Physical Needs

The Boerboel requires plenty of space, both indoor and outdoor, that befits its enormous size.

The breed scores 4 out of 5 stars for physical needs and regularly requires exercise to prevent obesity and maintain its sturdy body.

Here are the qualities that warrant the Boerboel’s 4-star rating in physical needs:

• Energy level: Boerboels have a relatively active lifestyle thus hold 3 stars for energy level. It is an excellent choice for you if you live a semi-active life.
• Intensity: The breed gets 4 stars for strength, thus it is a very vigorous dog.
• Exercise needs: Boerboels score 4 stars for exercise needs. They require a lot of activity every day, approximately 2 hours daily.
• Potential for playfulness: The Boerboel is very playful and attains 4 stars for playfulness potential.

As you take your long daily walks, play with your Boerboel. Your dog will love the experience!

Vital Stats You Should Know About Boerboel Dogs

More Fun Facts About Boerboel Breeds

• Though they are short in stature, Boerboels are surprisingly muscular and unbelievably heavy.
• Boerboels are exceptional guardians, thus very suitable if you want to enforce your home’s security.
• Though the breed’s popularity has increased significantly in South Africa, they are still considered a rare dog breed.
• The Boerboel is the most agile of the Mastiff dog types.
• Socialization is non-evasive with this breed to ward off their aggressive personality toward other canines, particularly those of the same kind and sex.
• The word ‘error’ is not in this breed’s vocabulary. The Boerboel is instinctively sharp and is excellent at picking up on cues and clues in his surrounding, which, explains his keen eye and exceptional suspicious nature.
• The Boerboel does have a lot of self-control when the occasion calls for it. No breed can switch from one extreme end to another as gracefully as this dynamic canine.
• This agile breed has the potential to take down a lion or ferociously attack a human intruder; he is also an astounding and remarkably pliant therapy dog and is employed in this sector.
• This dog is highly recognized for hardly barking and is so adaptable. He preserves a significant segment of his heart for his other strong suit, helping the kids.

What is the Origin of Boerboel Dog Breeds

Though the Boerboel is recognized as a South African dog, his real roots trace back to Huguenot, Netherlands and Germany. This breed held such a special place in the hearts of the French, English and Dutch people that immigrants carried them along as they migrated to South Africa in the mid-1600s.

The name “Boerboel” is derived from the Afrikaans/Dutch words “boer” to mean farmer and “boel” to mean dog and indeed they were farmer dogs. Their role was primarily to protect the homestead and hunt dangerous wildlife like wild cats, hyenas and baboons.

European settlers brought their Mastiffs and Bulldogs to South Africa and crossbred with Boerboels to make them what they are now. The Da Boers diamond mining company also imported Bull Mastiffs to protect their mines, which bred with local Boerboels.

It is not defined precisely, which breeds compose the Boerboel’s descent. Still, only the heftiest dogs were able to overcome extreme temperatures and wildlife encounters, which developed the breed’s robustness and obstinacy.

The first Boerboel was brought to light by Dr Carl Semencic, an anthropologist who travelled from America to South Africa. His first introduction of the dog was in the Dog World Magazine and later in a book called “Gladiator Dogs.”

Everyone was awed by this humongous, robust dog and it wasn’t long after that the whole world wanted a slice of this doggie pie. Boerboel breeders, therefore, began to crop up, some breeding for fun, others to make money while others for ill intentions. For instance, Boerboels were highly acquired to participate in dogfighting championships in Denmark, Russia and Ukraine.

Dogfighting has however deemed a form of dog cruelty, therefore, banned, which meant a brighter future for this tenacious breed.

Throughout history, Boerboels were developed mainly for their function and personality and because of this well calculated and careful breeding process, the Boerboel has become a loving compatriot with a well-balanced character.

Boerboel Australian organizations will continue to adhere to the basic guidelines to breed the most affectionate and robust Boerboels in the world.

Boerboel Appearance

Boerboels are giant dogs with a pronounced bone structure and densely packed bone capacity.

Though its muscles are “Hercules-like”, the Boerboel carries himself with grace, confidence, vigour and power.

Just the head is spectacular with a short length from the nose to the forehead, and the skull is somehow flat.

His neck and shoulders are strapping and voluminous, not forgetting his broad hindquarters. There is nothing tinny-winey about this breed.

A Boerboel’s coat is short, lustrous, linear and wiry. He has a double-coat, and the inner layer is smoother and more voluminous.

Though a Boerboel’s skin is loose, it never hangs- he is much too trimmed to have baggie skin on his muscled physique.

A peculiar feature of Boerboels is the black mask that envelopes their muzzle to their mouth and at times, even the eyes and ears.

Their eyes are usually black and in fact, the darker, the better. Yellow eyes are undesirable and may indicate a genetic fault.

The dog’s tail is often berth, especially for those that participate in dog shows. Usually, it is anchored at the third joint, but often long and slightly bent. It is becoming more prevalent not to dock a Boerboel’s tail if he is not going to take part in dog shows.

In summary, you should notice the following features in your Boerboel:

• Eye colour – Black
• Nose colour – Black
• Coat colour – Cream; Brow; Red; Brindle; Tawny; Reddish
• Coat length – Short
• Coat density – Normal
• Coat texture – Straight

What is the Average Size and Lifespan of Boerboel Breeds?

Boerboels are longer than they are tall. Male Boerboels measure 25-28 inches (64-70 cm) in adulthood while the females measure 23-25.5 inches (59-65cm).

Adult Boerboels typically weigh 177 pounds (80kg). It is not uncommon for a male Boerboel to weigh 200 pounds (91kg) or more. Boerboels are enormous!

Some health conditions can negatively impact your Bloodhound’s wellbeing. With that in mind, you should only acquire your dog from a trusted breeder who guarantees you little occurrences of genetic disorders. A well-cared-for Boerboel can offer you companionship for good 10-12 years.

All About the Boerboel Temperament And Personality

Boerboels are generally fun-loving, intelligent and people-pleasers. They love being busybodies, whether it is guarding your home, or difficult farm work or training for a dog show where they can display their tenacity and strength.

Boerboels adore their human companions, especially kids; but their protection can go overboard at times.

The same intuition that makes them capable guard dogs can also turn them into fierce, territorial and hostile monsters if not adequately trained and socialized.

When hosting visitors, it is crucial to introduce them to your baby Boerboel, so he doesn’t feel threatened. Ideally, Boerboels welcome the company of guests they are well acquainted with, though their instincts may still be on their sleeves.

The Boerboel is highly trainable; however, he needs an alpha pack leader (the dog parent) to guide as it matures. As an owner, you need to be so strong-willed with this breed that you will not bolt outdoor when opened.

As Boerboels were initially bred to be protectors, they take their roles to heart and therefore, need to be aware of the boundaries and regulations they are expected to portray.

You need to train your Boerboel to respond to orders- he must not be given the authority to implement his own decisions, or your house could quickly turn into a war zone.

With a robust assertive parent, the Boerboel will make a caring and adoring family pet.

What Health Problems Are Boerboels Prone To?

The Boerboel is an overall healthy dog with very minimal health conditions.

However, there are few health problems that they are susceptible to which may be detected throughout their lives.

They may be prone to heart disease, elbow or hip dysplasia, eyelid problems, bloat and Vaginal Dysplasia. Rarely do they have juvenile epilepsy.

Without further due, let’s take a look at some of the conditions you should watch out for.

We have categorized the health issues into common and less common that affect this breed.

Common Health Issues

Hip Dysplasia

Hip Dysplasia is a deformity of the hip joint, which causes a shallow hip socket leading to arthritis and cartilage damage.

The joint is unsteady that leads to limping, and pain and the symptoms accelerate with age.

Severe Hip Dysplasia is characterized by complete joint deformity and treatable by euthanasia despite the dog’s age.

The condition is diagnosed through the x-ray to determine its severity level.

Genetic or environmental factors cause hip Dysplasia. A puppy has a higher risk of having Hip Dysplasia if one or both parents have the condition.

It is crucial you X-ray your Boerboel when it is 12-18 months of age and informs your breeder about the result.

Apart from the standard HD x-ray, you should have a PennHip x-ray performed, which can be done as early as 16 weeks of age.

The PennHip x-ray determines how loose the hip joint is and the dog’s risk of developing arthritis later on. These x-rays are sent to the U.S.A for evaluation and only authorized veterinarians may perform the x-rays.

There are a lot of factors that can cause Hip Dysplasia in a dog, ranging from his upbringing. A puppy must only be fed dog food meant for puppies and later on for young pups.

The Boerboel should be given dog food meant for large breeds. If you decide to cook the doggie’s diet, you should know your puppy’s nutrient requirement, which varies for adult dogs.

Additionally, your Boerboel should remain healthy and fit throughout his life because unwanted weight gain increases its risk of developing Hip Dysplasia.

The amount and type of physical exercise will impact the development of your pup’s hip joints. Up to the age of 18 months, all cardio and strength exercises are not required (e.g. jogging, bag carrying, weight pull, cycling, etc.).

However, you should not restrain your doggie from obvious physical exercises such as walking on and off-leash, trotting up and down the stairs, playing, jumping, and such.

Note that the Boerboel is a massive dog and thus monotonous overly long workouts will stress its joints more than smaller dog breeds.

Elbow Dysplasia

Elbow Dysplasia is a deformity of the elbow joint, and in the long run, leads to arthritis.

Elbow Dysplasia can be inherited or acquired through environmental factors through the pup’s upbringing, as indicated above in the Hip Dysplasia section.

Elbow Dysplasia can also be fostered by cartilage defects, ununited processus coronoideus (UPC); osteochondrosis dissecans (OD); diseases fragmented processus coronoideus (FPC) or incongruity in the joint.

The elbow’s status is diagnosed by x-ray. You must x-ray your pet between the ages of 12-18 months and inform your breeder of the outcome.

Entropion/ Ectropion

Entropion/Ectropion is a condition whereby the lower eyelid turns inwards and rubs against the eye or turns out and causes excessive tearing.

This condition is said to be inheritable and affected canines should be removed from the breeding program.

Vaginal Hyperplasia

Vaginal Hyperplasia is a condition whereby the vagina actively counteracts estrogen production when the female is on heat.

The vagina then swells and emerges from the vulva, similar to a tongue out. For this reason, vaginal hyperplasia is considered prolapse by some breeders.

Vaginal Hyperplasia is a genetic condition, and affected canines should be extracted from the breeding program.

Uncommon Health Issues

Demodicosis

Demodicosis is a health condition caused by mites known as Demodex. These mites are found on every canine, but they become troublesome if the pup has a low immune system and is unable to fight the parasites.

Local demodicosis usually occurs in young pups below 12 months of age and disappear again. In this case, you will observe bold spots on the front legs and face but no itching.

General demodicosis affects young and mature dogs and usually covers more significant regions of the body. In some instances, this condition can be so severe and painful that the canine has to be euthanized. However, 90% of affected dogs can be symptom-free again.

Demodicosis is one of the most challenging skin conditions to treat and often very agonizing for the victim dog. A canine is declared healthy after at least two negative tests taken within a month.

Demodicosis is diagnosed through skin scraping. The condition is inherited recessive; therefore, both parents have to be carriers of the gene for a puppy to be affected.

Allergies

Various types of allergies can occur with the Boerboels but are highly uncommon.

Allergies vary from food (usually beef or grain) to pollen or mites’ allergies.

Allergies are characterized by different symptoms such as itching, fungus, spotting, tummy problems such as vomiting and diarrhea, among others. These symptoms don’t usually occur until after the 1^st year but often won’t show until the dog matures.

Allergies are considered genetic, but two non-allergic parents can produce allergic puppies.

Your veterinarian will test for allergies by obtaining blood samples and skin scrapings.

It is essential you consult your breeder if your pup is diagnosed with allergies so that he can contact other buyers from the same litter.

Please note that environmental aspects can aggravate food allergies. Therefore, if your puppy experiences bad diarrhea after consuming a specific type of food, contact your veterinarian promptly instead of trying to deal with the issue on your own.

Patella Luxation

Patella Luxation has different causes, and sometimes the dog does not show any symptom.

In severe situations, this condition causes limping.

However, you need not worry about this condition because it mostly affects smaller dog breeds. Therefore, it is uncommon to test a Boerboel for patella luxation before breeding.

Osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis is a genetic but non-congenital proliferative condition that occurs during 4-6 months of age when the puppy experiences exponential growth.

The defect is accelerated by wrong diet or exercise, and you should contact your veterinarian if you suspect your puppy of the condition.

Heart disease

Molossers are usually prone to heart diseases. Though it rarely occurs with this breed, more and more Boerboels are being diagnosed with different kinds of heart diseases today.

Since heart disease is considered inheritable, a breeder should test his breeding dogs.

Cancer

Cancer may occur, but it is rare, and in most cases, senior dogs are the ones prone to this condition.

How To Take Care of Boerboel Dogs

The first step of being a Boerboel parent is as easy as taking a trip to the nearest dog breeder and purchasing a puppy that you like. But after that, comes the real journey of dog parenthood, which ideally with this breed, will not be your everyday cup of tea if a comprehensive Boerboel care guide does not cover you.

These large guardian angels are adorable, but you must put a significant amount of effort into their grooming, exercise, training and nutritional needs.

Let me take you through this detailed guide of how you should care for your Boerboel.

Feeding Your Boerboel Dog

It is crucial to feed your Boerboel pup a high-quality dog diet that is distinctly developed for their individual dietary needs. Your dog’s veterinarian can help you formulate an effective diet plan and discuss your pup’s unique nutritional requirements.

I have compiled the most recommendable dog foods for your Boerboel, which you will find extremely helpful throughout your pup’s life.

Here they are:

1. Wellness Complete Health Grain-Free Large Breed

If your Boerboel’s tummy is sensitive, he may greatly benefit from this grain-free complete formula made with highly nutritious ingredients.

Developed primarily for large dog breeds, this formula features chicken meal and deboned chicken as its primary ingredients.

Other features include:

• It contains palatable carbohydrates such as potatoes, chickpeas and peas, which offer plenty of fibre for proper digestion.
• It is supplemented with chelated minerals to support complete and well-balanced nutrition along with probiotics for active digestion.
• It has the right estimate of protein and energy to reinforce lean muscle content without triggering unhealthy weight gain.

2.American Journey Large-Breed Chicken and Sweet Potato Recipe

This formula is one of the most affordable dog food in the market. It also supplies high-standard dietetics for large-breed canines like your Boerboel thus making it an ideal choice.

Not only is this recipe grain-free, but also packed with wholesome protein from chicken meat.

Other features of the American Journey Large-Breed Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe you’ll find beneficial for your Boerboel include:

• It’s grain-free carbohydrates such as peas and sweet potatoes to offer high-value dietary fibre and energy to improve your Boerboel’s coat and skin.
• It is strengthened with antioxidants to build your dog’s immune system.
• It is fortified with probiotics for an optimal digestive system.
• Its chelated minerals are necessary for optimal nutrient intake.
• Fresh fruits and vegetables are included in the list to foster complete and well-rationed nutrition from natural ingredients.

3. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Large- Breed Salmon Recipe

For an immense protein recipe that is devoid of grains, try this Blue Wilderness Large-Breed Salmon Recipe.

This recipe consists of 32% protein to fortify your Boerboel’s lean muscle content with 14% fat to support his energy demand without risking his health.

You’ll also appreciate that this formula is entirely free of by-products and artificial additives but includes advantageous supplements such as probiotics and chelated minerals.

4. Orijen Senior

We know Orijen is quite pricy, but its benefits make it worth it! Orijen Senior provides excellent protein sources for your older Boerboel.

This formula features whole eggs, deboned chicken, yellowtail flounder, whole Atlantic mackerel and deboned turkey.

It is specially developed to maintain your dog’s muscle even as it grows less active.

Consisting of 85% fish and meats, the formula is low-glycemic and has low carbohydrate content to regulate your senior dog’s blood sugar.

The recipe also includes chondroitin and natural glucosamine sources to keep your Bloodhound’s joints strong and healthy.

It consists of 38% protein and 15% crude fat which is absolutely perfect for another dog who needs extra protein.

5. Now Fresh Grain-Free Large Breed Puppy Recipe

Though this recipe is on the higher end of the price bargain, you will find it is worth it! Developed with top-notch animal protein such as duck, salmon and turkey, this formula is packed with omega fatty acids.

With natural fruits and vegetables for nutritional equilibrium and non-grain carbohydrates, this recipe is highly edible and superior.

It offers 29% crude protein and 16% fat to ensure your Boerboel puppy grows healthy and strong.

6. Natural Balance Original Ultra Whole-Body Health Large- Breed Recipe

If you’re seeking to buy a large-breed dog recipe that fosters healthy and consistent digestion, this Natural Balance Original Ultra Whole Body Health Large- Breed Recipe is a sensible choice.

Developed with protein-bountiful chicken and duck, it is highly edible with the fortification of oats and whole-grain brown rice. The recipe is also made with grain-free carbohydrates such as potatoes and peas.

This formula contains a wide array of healthy fats and a healthy coat and skin. Additionally, it is strengthened with chelated minerals to guarantee complete and steady nutrition.

7. Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Grain-Free Dry Food

Taste of the Wild is the most popular dog food in the market. If you are clueless on what to buy, you could start with this appraised formula which will not disappoint.

The recipe is a protein – endowed option for your Boerboel that is packed with a wide array of healthy omega fatty acids for lustrous coat and skin.

Taste of the Wild Features:

• Ocean fish meal and salmon are the principal sources of protein with smoked salmon for extra tantalizing flavour.
• There is a high content of omega fatty acids to enhance coat and skin health.
• Dried fermentation products supply probiotic source.
• The formula is entirely grain-free but instead made with digestible carbohydrates like peas and sweet potatoes.
• It’s fresh fruits and vegetable content complete the food’s balanced nutrition.
• You’ll also be happy to know that it includes chelated minerals for proper nutrient absorption.

8. Precise Holistic Complete Large & Giant Breed Puppy Formula

If you’re cautious about the quality of dog food for your Boerboel, this accurate Precise Holistic Complete Large & Giant Breed Puppy Formula is a great choice.

Made with unpreserved wholesome ingredients, this formula offers plenty of nutritious protein and whole-grain carbohydrates.

Moreover, it is made uniquely for large breeds and consists of an abundant supply of supplements required to ensure complete and proportional nutrition.

9. Merrick Back Country Raw Infused Large-Breed Recipe

If you want the best quality dog food for your Boerboel, Merrick Back Country Raw Infused Large-Breed Recipe has got you covered. It contains high-protein kibble infused with frozen raw meat chunks to enhance flavour and nourishment.

Below are distinct qualities of this recipe you should consider:

• Deboned chicken is the primary ingredient with 38% protein.
• It is grain-free, therefore no corn, soy or wheat.
• It is packed with digestible carbohydrates such as peas, potatoes and sweet potatoes.
• It is loaded with essential chicken fat as an ideal source of high-content energy and beneficial fatty acids in vegetables and fresh fruits to supply natural nutrient sources.
• It also consists of probiotics and chelated minerals.

10. New Formula ACANA Grasslands Regional Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Champion Pet Foods has improved its dog food formula to come up with a newly enhanced one that is low on lentils, lamb and duck. The new method also includes catfish meal and goat meal to suit your Boerboel’s dietary needs.

Its revision improved from 31% protein; 17% crude fat; 5% crude fiber and 10% moisture to 33% crude protein; 17% crude fat; 6% crude fiber and 12% moisture.

Hence, the recipe consists of 70% animal protein ingredients and 30% fruits, botanicals and vegetables. No potatoes, grains and or tapioca are included.

If you’re searching for a portion of local grain-free dog food for your Boerboel that is not heavy on carbs, the Acana Grasslands Regional Formula is an ideal choice.

11. Fromm Large Breed Adult Gold

Formulated uniquely for large breeds over 50 pounds, Fromm Breed Adult Gold is one of the best dog foods for large dogs such as Boerboels.

It includes chicken, duck and chicken meal as its primary ingredients. Chicken cartilage is added to supply natural glucosamine that helps to maintain joint health, which is crucial for large dogs.

The recipe excludes soy, corn and wheat that might irritate your dog’s digestive tract.

Its protein to fat rate is kept at moderate levels to protect your pet from bloating.

12. Diamond Naturals Large Breed Puppy Formula Dry Dog Food

If you are seeking to buy all-natural dog food for your pup, this brand may be an excellent option to consider.

This recipe has a carefully designed ingredient formula that keeps in mind brain and joint health, adequate levels of protein and fat and the L- Carnitine supplement to support the conversion of fat to energy.

The following are critical beneficial features of this brand:

• It is way cheaper than most dog foods.
• It contains no soy, corn or wheat.
• It has ideal lamb to supply protein and fat content.
• It is fostered with DHA for eye and brain development.
• It is fortified with coconut oil and dried kelp to support proper digestion.

13. Eukanuba – Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

Packed with vitamins and minerals, this dry dog recipe for large canine adult pups is a superb blend for selective eaters.

The flavorful ingredients will keep your pet addicted while the ideal blend of nutritious flavours will guarantee excellent health and wellness.

Prepared with supreme ingredients such as chicken, wheat, corn, grain sorghum and chicken meal, this formula is one among favourited dog foods by many dog owners because of the great advantage it offers.

If you want to feed your Boerboel meals fortified with essential nutrients without breaking the bank, this Eukanuba recipe is undoubtedly an ultimate option.

With chicken as the key ingredient, not only does this dog food supply adequate levels of protein for your pup, but also several other nutrients and joint-strengthening supplements that make it so famous with large-dog breed owners.

14. Purina ONE – SmartBlend Large Breed Puppy Formula Dry Dog Food

The natural forms of glucosamine present in this dog food are the best for your large breed growing Boerboel.

Fortified with the most desirable ingredients, this blend is a supreme source of nourishment for Boerboel puppies.

With chicken as the primary source of protein, supplemented with rice flour, chicken meal, corn gluten meal and soybean meal, this formula makes an excellent nutrient compilation perfectly suited to large-breed pups.

In addition to the augmentation that helps strengthen your dog’s joint, the recipe displays a variety of dual-shielding antioxidants and other vital nutrients to maintain a robust immune system and flourishing dog coat and skin.

If there is one dog food you can entirely depend on to guarantee your large pup a complete and plentiful diet, this formula is among the top picks I would advocate.

Support your four-legged baby’s optimal growth with a diet that’s bountiful and well balanced!

15. Bil-Jac- Large Breed Adult Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food

This superior blend developed by Bil-Jac is a farm-based chicken formula made solely from natural and prime ingredients.

The brand derives wholesome and nutritious elements for your furry friend and supplies an excellent nutrient profile for your Boerboel’s wellbeing.

The formula also boasts natural sources of chondroitin and glucosamine for healthy bones and joints.

The exclusive compilation of ingredients is slow-cooked by professionals to ensure your pup acquires only the finest to stay healthy.

With its top ingredients being oatmeal, chicken, dried beet pulp, cornmeal and chicken by-products, this recipe was carefully crafted to fortify your big guy’s dietary needs.

16. Iams – ProActive Health Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food

Sustaining strong bones is one of the critical priorities of large-breed dog parents.

Thus, it is crucial to search for a recipe that supplies nutrients and additives to stimulate elbows, knees and joint development and keep the skeletal structure robust.

This wholesome blend by Iams is a superior choice if these are the primary qualities you are seeking in dog food.

The recipe not only portrays eggs and chicken as primary protein sources but also other elements such as ground whole grain corn, ground whole grain barley, ground whole grain sorghum and chicken meal endowed with minerals, antioxidants and vitamins for the complete wellbeing of your Boerboel.

17. Purina Pro Plan- Focus Adult Large Breed Weight Management Formula

Dry Dog Food

This expert formula contains all the necessary nutrients to keep your large pooch in perfect shape.

This is uniquely critical for these big buddies to prevent them from suffering from health issues linked with bones and joints.

Thus, it is vital to always take care of your darling’s weight and lean structure by maintaining a perfect fat-to-protein ratio.

This specialized weight regulation formula offers optimal ingredients such as chicken, corn gluten meal, brewer’s rice, poultry by-product meal and whole grain wheat to keep your Boerboel healthy and his body lean and muscular.

18. Blue Buffalo-Life Protection Formula Large Breed Adult Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food

With delicious and protein-filled ingredients like deboned chicken, barley, chicken meal, oatmeal and brown rice, this recipe is formulated with improved nutrients to offer your Boerboel pup a wholesome meal to keep it joyous, lively and fit.

The specific blend of subsistence, including antioxidants and other essential minerals, supplies your canine lover with the extra support they require to keep their enormous structure in mind.

The multiplex carbs and L-carnitine helps with digestion, improved body movement and muscle growth.

How Much and How Often To Feed a Boerboel

Keep your Boerboel pup lean but not thin. To test your pooch’s health, conduct the visual assessment: with the dog standing straight, you should be able to see its last rib. This is the best weight for growth.

If the dog is too lean, you can feed ½ cup- 1 cup more a day.

If you decide to change your puppy’s dog food, don’t do it abruptly to interfere with its growth and pattern. This should be carried out in 3 servings or less per day using excellent dog food. I recommend Purina Pro Plan Formula or Nature’s Domain because they support growth exceptionally well.

For a puppy: Begin with 50% old food and 50% new food then garnish with Probiotics for a smooth transition. The Probiotics can be Purina FortiFlora Probiotics and make the change over the third or fourth serving.

For a fully grown Boerboel: Begin with 25% new food and 75% old food and sprinkle Probiotics but wait for 2-3 days to completely change to the fresh food.

Grooming Your Boerboel Dog

If grooming is your weakness, lucky for you Boerboels are low maintenance dogs. In fact, you don’t require the services of a professional pet groomer.

However, there are a few hygiene aspects you need to look into for a brighter, happier and healthier Boerboel pup.

Coat care: Boerboels shed averagely, and their short coats don’t require much attention. Monthly baths and weekly brushing should help extract the shedding hair and keep the skin fine.

Ear assessment: Conduct weekly ear checks to rule out ear infections and then clean the ears using a moistened cloth or cotton ball with dog ear cleanser.

Never poke your dog’s ears with the earbuds we use as it can cause tremendous damage and excruciating pain.

Nail care: Trim your pup’s nails when they grow out if they don’t wear them down naturally. Avoid trimming the claws too far in as it may cause bleeding and discomfort.

Ensure you have the right nail trimming equipment and know where to clip- if not, you can ask your vet for some pointers.

Dental hygiene: Just like us, dental health is equally essential to canines. Brush your Boerboel’s teeth at least twice or thrice every week.

This will also improve your doggie’s breath, especially if you prefer to kiss your furry darling’s mouth.

Essential Grooming Tools for The Boerboel

• A short bristle brush – it works well with short, coarse hair.
• A curvy brush or comb- its small rubber tips are known for stimulating natural oils in the dog’s skin.
• Nail trimmer.
• Natural shampoo – it is chemical-free and includes herbs to enhance your dog’s coat and skin.
• Dog ear cleaners to clean the ear canal.
• Cotton balls for wiping out debris from the ears.

Exercising and Training Your Boerboel

With experienced dog parents and trainers, this is a relatively easy breed to tame irrespective of its size and domination.

Apart from daily dog walks, Boerboels love to play with balls; however, you may want to get a more durable and harder ball the dog cannot pierce with its healthy teeth. Boerboels also destroy chew toys with one jaw snap, so go for the more durable ones.

Boerboels also enjoy swimming, playing Fetch especially with a Frisbee and make incredible hiking buddies.

Your Boerboel must get adequate mental and physical stimulation to curb boredom, restlessness and destructive behaviour. It can be quite frustrating to clean up after a hyperactive bored humongous dog!

It is recommended that a Boerboel gets at least 1 hour of strict exercise every day, but 90 minutes is more desirable. Brisk long walks or jogs are excellent but ensure your pup is secured on a sturdy leash and that he can obey your command. Otherwise, the dog will take after the first cat, bike or small dog that passes by.

In between his walking sessions, more physical activities such as Fetch or chase the ball are good for him. The Boerboel is very agile and requires activities that promote his agility. Even simple games where he tags a wagon or sled are favourable.

Mental games are mandatory! Games such as puzzle feeders will joggle your Boerboel’s brain, and besides, he’ll ace the test!

Training should begin as soon as you bring your puppy home. The Boerboel needs firm leadership, regulations implemented and adhered to. You should be confident and persistent using direct commands while being motivational using praises and treats.

It is crucial to start socializing your dog from an early age to tame its aggressive nature. You cannot afford to neglect this step, especially with Boerboels!

Are Boerboels Great With Children and other Pets?

Boerboels will protect their human companions to their death bed, especially the young ones.

However, because of their enormous size and hyperactivity, they may unintentionally knock over a child if they get carried away.

Train your kids the proper ways to handling the pup, for example, no prodding or poking the dog no matter how docile he may seem.

The Boerboel’s overprotective hunch may be an issue when your kids have friends over. This is where early socialization comes in handy, to prevent aggressive episodes.

That said, a Boerboel is the best bodyguard for your children- you couldn’t ask for a better child guard than the massive, limber Boerboel!

Boerboels get along well with other pets they grow up with and reside in the same home, but they can be quite hostile and intolerable of new pets. Moreover, they can be competitive and antagonistic of other Boerboels of the same sex.

Early socialization helps to deal with the Boerboel’s confrontational drive, but they are best suited to a home where they are the one and only!

Australian Based Breed Organisations for Boerboel Dogs

Have you ever considered why you shouldn’t buy a Boerboel puppy from just any breeding organization out there?

Some breeders may not be within your locality, but it may be best to consult them instead of purchasing from a local breeder only to be disappointed by what you get.

I have highlighted some of the most renown Boerboel breeding organizations in Australia.

When you reach out to them, ensure you are well able to:

• Cater to your Boerboel’s needs for his 10-12 years’ lifespan.
• Provide the best dog food, meet the vet’s bills, offer training, adequate exercise and mental stimulation.
• Ensure you can be able to exercise the dog for at least 1 hour every day. If you don’t have enough time, can you afford the services of a pet caregiver?
• Offer companionship to your Boerboel. Remember a dog is man’s best friend; therefore, the essence of acquiring a dog is to form a lasting friendship with your four-legged companion.
• Can you offer training effectively? Remember Boerboels require owners who are firm, consistent and gentle. If you are too soft or impatient, you may not be able to provide efficient training.

If your answer is yes to all the above questions, contact any of the following reputable Australian Boerboel breeders:

• Pine Ridge Boerboels
• Dandaloo Boerboels
• Skystorm Boerboels
• Australian Boerboel Society

Please consider the following factors before you choose your eagerly awaited Boerboel puppy:

• Social Qualities: Social aspects of a puppy will help you observe how he will behave with other pets and children at home. Keep in mind that Boerboels have a moderate prey drive and may occasionally go after your neighbour’s cat or a biker down the street.

• Behaviour: A dominating puppy will always want to be the alpha of the litter. If you’re acquiring your Boerboel from a breeder you trust, which you should, this quality should have been tamed by the time they’re ready for purchase.

• Wellbeing: Take note of the puppy’s living conditions. Is it well-kept and clean? Or is the litter living in an unconducive environment? Puppies in unhygienic habitats are susceptible to contracting infections, and you don’t want to take a contagious puppy home.

• Health: You’re not a dog physician, but after taking you through the various health conditions that affect the Boerboel breed, I am sure that now you are aware of what signs to watch out for. If you observe a puppy with any of the symptoms listed in the health issues section, let the breeder exchange the puppy for a healthier one.

• Parents Health History: Every breeder should have the puppy’s parents. If they’re not present (perhaps they died), let them produce their health file to analyze their characteristics and any signs of health issues.

• Veterinarian Records: Vet records can give you sensible speculation of the puppy’s overall wellbeing. If the puppy has been given its vaccine and medication shots, let the breeder show you evidence.

• Paperwork: If you adopt your Boerboel from a rescue home, all the paperwork (legal ownership documents) regarding their acquisition should be presented to you without any excuses.

If everything about the Boerboel is elaborate, let the breeder offer you a contract of Sale or receipt confirming that you’re now the rightful owner of the dog.

Finally, let the breeder:

• Provide you with a well-structured guideline on training and exercise, feeding, socialization, and grooming the dog.
• Inform you of the vaccinations that should be administered to your dog and if any have already been given.

Rescue Groups for Boerboel Breeds in Australia

There are three primary reasons why you should look into Boerboel Rescue Groups:

1. You may want your Boerboel to be offered a loving home that you are not able to provide.
2. You may have come across a Boerboel pup under harsh living conditions.
3. You might want to become a Boerboel owner, but you want to adopt one from a rescue home rather than buy from a breeder.

There are numerous perks of rescuing a Boerboel instead of buying from breeders and here is why you should consider rehoming one:

• Saving a life: Saving a canine’s life is why you should rescue a dog from a shelter instead of buying one from a breeder. The work of rescue groups is to retain neglected dogs and find individuals who can take them to their homes and offer them the love they deserve. Numerous dogs in shelters need caring families. Let’s be canine lovers and help fight animal euthanasia in Australia!

• Creating space for newly rescued dogs: There are currently over one hundred thousand Boerboels in Australian rescue homes. This shows that there is more need for you to save a dog than to purchase from a breeder. Adopting a dog from the shelter will be making more room and resources for another poor Boerboel out in the cold- so make your move today.

• You can adopt a canine who is already trained: An already prepared Boerboel is a breath of fresh air, and you can only get one from a rescue group. If this is your first time being a Boerboel parent, training them can be mentally tiring. That said, you can get yourself an adorable, and sufficiently trained Boerboel dog, which takes the whole training burden off your shoulders.

Note that canines who end up in rescue groups don’t necessarily mean something is wrong with them. People abandon them for obnoxious reasons like too much tail wagging or tongue removal or licking. Others were given dogs as gifts in festive seasons but were not prepared for the burdensome tasks of raising them. On realizing what dog parenting is, they opt to give up these lovable beings who find themselves in rescue homes. Rescue groups take in abandoned dogs and welcome dog owners who need these groups’ services to rehome the thousands of delightful and quality rescued canines.

Here are some of the Boerboel rescue homes in Australia:

• Pound Paws
• Petfinder
• RSPCA: for all creatures great and small
• PetRescue

Concluding Lines on Boerboel Dog Breeds

Bloodhound dog breeds are exceptional family lovers- you can call them our four-legged bodyguards! If you have a house with a yard, it is best for your dog.

It is a minimum shedding breed with a flexible yet docile nature, quite like the two sides of a Boerboel!

So was this guide beneficial to you?

If YES, are you up for the challenge of raising a Boerboel dog? Share your feedback with us. We’ll be more than happy to read your opinions.