Working Group · Purebred · South Africa's farm guardian mastiff — one of the largest and most powerful breeds on earth, bred by Boer settlers to protect farmsteads from lions, leopards, and baboons in the African bush
Watch this video for a quick overview of the Boerboel — see the breed in action before diving into the details below.
The Boerboel was developed by Dutch and German settlers in South Africa beginning in the 17th century — the word 'Boerboel' means 'farmer's dog' in Afrikaans. Settlers crossbred large European dogs brought from the Netherlands and Germany with indigenous African breeds, selecting for size, strength, and the courage necessary to confront lions, leopards, baboons, and other African wildlife threatening the farm. The resulting breed became the quintessential South African farm dog for nearly three centuries.
The Boerboel is extremely devoted to its family — it bonds deeply with its people and is often called the most affectionate of the mastiff breeds at home. However, it is naturally territorial and suspicious of strangers, and its enormous size and strength demand experienced, confident ownership and thorough early socialization. In South Africa, the Boerboel is a cultural institution representing Afrikaner rural heritage, and the breed is now recognized internationally as one of the most capable and loyal guardian breeds available.
Real Boerboels — browse photos showcasing their look, size, and personality.
Boerboels are known for being devoted and strong-willed. They form deep bonds with their families and thrive on consistent human connection. They strike a good balance — lively enough to enjoy playtime and adventures, but calm enough to settle indoors when the day is done.
Boerboels can be trained with patience and consistency, though they may occasionally test boundaries. With proper socialization they can do well with children, though supervision is always wise.
Boerboels need regular daily exercise to maintain a healthy weight and an even temperament. They are versatile companions who enjoy active outings but are equally content to relax at home after their needs are met.
Boerboels have a dense double coat built for protection against the elements. They shed year-round with two major blow-out seasons in spring and fall. Regular brushing dramatically reduces the amount of hair around your home and keeps the coat healthy.
Boerboels are moderately trainable and respond well to patient, consistent positive reinforcement. They benefit from clear expectations and a calm, confident trainer who establishes routines early.
Keep sessions short — 10 to 15 minutes — and always end on a success. Enrolling in a puppy or adult obedience class provides structured learning and valuable socialization.
Boerboels are generally large dogs whose size brings certain structural stresses. Responsible breeders screen breeding stock for the most common conditions, significantly reducing risk in puppies from health-tested parents.
A Boerboel fits well with families or individuals who can provide moderate daily exercise and consistent companionship. They adapt reasonably well to various living situations as long as their exercise and social needs are met. Not ideal for owners away from home for long hours without a pet care solution in place.
Boerboels need consistent, well-portioned meals matched to their life stage. Overfeeding is one of the biggest health risks for any dog — use these guidelines and adjust based on your dog's activity level and body condition.
These are general guidelines for a giant-breed dog. Always check the feeding instructions on your specific food brand, and adjust based on activity level and body condition score.
Look for dog foods where the first ingredient is a named protein — chicken, beef, salmon, or lamb. Giant-breed formulas are calibrated for their metabolism and nutritional needs.
These common human foods can be toxic — even life-threatening — for dogs. Keep them safely out of reach at all times.
Always bring your Boerboel's regular food when boarding. Switching food suddenly can cause digestive upset. Provide the facility your exact feeding schedule and portion sizes.
The upfront cost of a Boerboel is just the beginning. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to expect — both to acquire one and to own one for their lifetime.
Beyond the purchase price, owning a Boerboel costs between $200–$400 per month on average. Here's where the money goes:
Over a 7–10 year lifespan, a Boerboel typically costs between $18,000–$35,000 total — depending on health, lifestyle, and the services you use.
Pet insurance is worth considering for any breed. Buying before your dog turns 1 gives the best rates and fewest pre-existing condition exclusions. Compare 2–3 providers before committing.
Because Boerboels have such wonderful traits, they're a popular choice for intentional mixed breeding. Here are the most common — and most loved — Boerboel crosses.
The Lab's famous warmth tempers the Boerboel's territorial nature — a large, loyal crossbreed that may be more approachable as a family companion while retaining guardian instincts.
Two powerful guardian breeds combine into a massive, loyal protection dog requiring experienced ownership and extensive socialization from puppyhood.
Two giant breeds combine into an enormous companion — potentially one of the largest crossbreeds possible, with the Boerboel's guarding instinct and the Great Dane's calm elegance.
Guardian power meets working intelligence — a large, loyal, and versatile crossbreed with strong protective instincts and better trainability than the purebred Boerboel.
Boerboels are full of surprises. Here are some of the most fascinating, funny, and heartwarming facts about this breed.