Boerboel
Published: Last updated: by Kyle J. LarsonAverage size and lifespan
Weight: 127-200lbs
Lifespan: 10 - 12 Years
Behavior
- Affection
- Kid-Friendly
- Stranger-Friendly
- Dog-Friendly
- Barking Amount
Care
- Grooming Difficulty
- Shedding Amount
- Easy to Train
- Can Be Alone
- Exercise Need
Environment
- Cold Tolerance
- Heat Tolerance
- Apartment-Friendly
Boerboel Information
The 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. However, please let us know if we made an error in the stats, we appreciate your help!
Breed FAQs
Can Boerboels be apartment dogs?
Boerboels don't do very well in apartments. It's recommended to look at another breed better suited to 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 will require some monitoring and training to make sure they get along and react well to unpredictable behavior.
Are Boerboels friendly with strangers?
Boerboels tend to be very slow to warm up to strangers. They require long periods of exposure before they will trust somone.
Do Boerboels get along with other dogs?
Boerboels aren't usually friendly with other dogs. They tend to not get along unless carefully socialized.
Do Boerboels bark a lot?
Boerboels don't bark very often of may never bark. Most barking is trained or in extreme situations.
Do Boerboels shed a lot?
The Boerboel isn't a heavy shedder. Some limited brushing and occassional cleaning should help prevent much hair build-up.
Do Boerboels need a lot of grooming?
With a Boerboel you won't need to dedicate any extra time to special grooming. Their coats are easy to deal with.
Do Boerboels need a lot of exercise?
A Boerboel will need a moderate amount of exercise to be happy. You'll need to plan some basic walks or fetch during the day.
Are Boerboels easy to train?
Although Boerboels can be a challenge to train, they can be taught with some dedicated work or by hiring some training help.
Can Boerboels handle cold weather?
Although Boerboels can handle the cold weather when out with you, they may not want to stay out for long periods of time.
Can Boerboels handle hot weather?
Although Boerboels can tolerate hot conditions, be careful not to expose them for too long.
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