The name of the breed, Boerboel (pronounced boer-bull), refers to the Dutch settlers who, in the 17th century, traveled to the southern tip of Africa to establish a station for the ships of the Dutch East India Company, where they could take on fresh supplies. The settlers began farming for the company and needed a strong guard and protection dog to help safeguard their families and livestock. The word “boer” is Dutch-Afrikaans for farmer, while “boel” means dog.
A long and intricate history
The origins of the Boerboel are shrouded in mystery. According to legend, Jan van Riebeeck, the first commander of the settlement, brought with him in 1652 the first bullenbijter (literally “bull-biter”), a now-extinct molosser breed that was used back home for guarding and driving cattle. The Dutch, German, and French settlers who followed him also brought along their large dogs. In 1795, during the Napoleonic Wars, Great Britain occupied the Cape Colony.
Together with the British army came their Bulldogs and Mastiffs. It is likely that their genes played an important role in the development of the Boerboel, as did those of indigenous African breeds such as the Khoi dog. Farmers had a very clear vision of what they wanted from their dogs: an excellent physical build, a healthy and resilient constitution. In addition, the dog had to be brave, but not reckless, attentive to its master’s every move, and ready to protect the family. They often formed the first line of defense against predators and enemies. Under the harsh and extreme conditions, only the strongest in body and mind survived. Thus, conscious breeding was complemented by natural selection. At the beginning of the last century, the De Beers diamond trading company imported large numbers of Bullmastiffs to guard their mines, and these were also crossed with the Boerboel. Under these circumstances, the Boerboel developed into the breed we know today. In period photographs, they look just the same as they do now.
In the 1960s and 1970s, this remarkable breed nevertheless came under threat when many people suddenly began keeping it merely as a companion. Demand exceeded supply, and so profit-driven puppy mills appeared, paying little attention to the noble characteristics of the Boerboel and even mixing it with other breeds. Fortunately, two dedicated breeders, Lucas van der Merwe and Jannie Bouwer, invested their time and money in the 1980s to trace the purebred population. Out of 250 dogs they found, only 72 were considered acceptable in every respect. These became the foundation of today’s studbook.
The two cynologists compiled the breed standard and, together with several colleagues, founded the South African Boerboel Breeders Association. Thus, the breed was saved from extinction at the very last moment. Despite its long history, the Boerboel has still not been recognized by the FCI, although it was officially presented in Europe for the first time at the 1995 Brussels World Show. The KUSA (Kennel Union of Southern Africa) classifies it among the working dogs.
In any case, the Boerboel—also known as the South African Mastiff—is a true success story. In its homeland it enjoys immense popularity. And no wonder, since it is a powerful, intelligent, fearless, confident, and distinctly territorial guard dog, one that will defend its property and family under any circumstances against intruders, whether human or animal. To an intruder, it offers virtually no chance. Nevertheless, it is a calm and thoughtful dog, which attacks only when necessary and usually barks only in emergencies. Its popularity is easy to understand in a country where the rate of violent crime is frighteningly high, and where deadly attacks against farmers and their workers are a daily reality.
Appearance
An observer immediately recognizes the Boerboel’s mastiff-like appearance: it is a large breed with strong bones, well-developed muscles, a thick neck, and a broad chest. Its head is block-shaped. The V-shaped ears are set high, of medium size, and hang down. The lips are fleshy and slightly pendulous. The coat is short, dense, soft to the touch, and glossy.
Its color can range from pale fawn to dark reddish-brown, with or without a mask. In some cases, vertical striping (brindle) appears on the coat. Eye color varies from light brown to dark brown. The muzzle is black, and the area around the eyes is often dark as well. The ideal height at the withers is 66 cm (males) and 61 cm (females), though a size 5–6 cm shorter is also acceptable. Despite its substantial build, the Boerboel’s movement is surprisingly light and energetic.
A lot of attention
The Boerboel must begin training from an early puppy age, using playful methods. It requires a firm and consistent owner who sets clear boundaries. Since it enjoys pleasing its master, it is easily motivated, though—especially at an older age—it also tends to act independently. Harsh discipline is not tolerated. This can easily lead to a loss of trust, or even unpredictability, which is dangerous in a dog of such physical strength. Habits not instilled during puppyhood cannot be corrected later. For this reason, early discipline and its continuous reinforcement are of particular importance. The Boerboel is extremely devoted and loyal to its family, and it is especially fond of children. It always handles them with great care—even those who are strangers to it. With proper training it can be excellently socialized, and if the owner makes it clear that a stranger is a welcome guest, the dog will accept the person. Socialization, of course, must be continuously maintained. Toward unfamiliar dogs, it often remains unfriendly. At the same time, the Boerboel is playful, particularly enjoying ball games and retrieving. Because of its strong jaws, toys usually do not last very long.
Tireless physique, bottomless stomach
The Boerboel has moderate exercise needs, but it requires plenty of space, as it was bred to live on the vast expanses of African farms. For this reason, a large yard and regular long walks are highly recommended—especially since the breed is prone to obesity. It is incredibly enduring, able to trot for hours without tiring. As it does not get along well with unfamiliar dogs, it is not advisable to let it run freely outside the home.
South Africa’s favorite dog has an enormous appetite, especially when young. However, the high cost of feeding is somewhat balanced by low veterinary expenses, as the breed is generally free from major health issues—though hip dysplasia and eyelid problems (both entropion and ectropion) can occasionally occur. Its average lifespan is around 12–13 years, though it may reach 15.
Unfortunately, the Boerboel is not welcomed in every country. In Denmark, for example, it was inexplicably classified as a fighting dog and was completely banned in 2010. It is also prohibited in France and Malaysia. In Romania, Russia, and Ukraine, the breed has been classified as particularly dangerous, meaning it can only be kept and bred under certain strict conditions.
South Africa’s beloved dog is known for its enormous appetite, particularly in its younger years. The cost of feeding, however, is somewhat offset by relatively low veterinary expenses, as the breed is generally healthy. Still, conditions such as hip dysplasia and eyelid disorders (entropion and ectropion) can occasionally occur. The Boerboel’s average lifespan is around 12–13 years, though some individuals may live up to 15.
Sadly, the Boerboel is not welcomed everywhere. In Denmark, for instance, it was inexplicably classified as a fighting dog and fully banned in 2010. Its ownership is also prohibited in France and Malaysia. In Romania, Russia, and Ukraine, the Boerboel is considered a particularly dangerous breed, and may only be kept or bred under strict regulations.
Dr. Polgár György
source https://akutyaujsag.hu/fajtaismerteto/boerboel-del-afrika-nemzeti-kutyaja/
