Boerboel
Also known as South African Mastiff · Boer Mastiff
South Africa, Mastiffs and guardian dogs
- Size
- Giant
- Height
- 55–70 cm
- Weight
- 60–90 kg
- Life expectancy
- 9–11 yrs
- Powerful
- Protective
- Confident
- Loyal
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Boerboel is a large, heavily muscled South African mastiff with a short, sleek coat and a big, blocky head. It was bred as a farm guardian and remains above all a protection dog. Its coat is usually brindle, fawn, red or brown, often with a black mask, and some registries also accept black.
Size
- Size
- Giant
- Height at shoulder
- 55–70 cm
- Adult weight
- 60–90 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Bigger breeds keep filling out until 18–24 months.
Lifespan
9–11 years
Most Boerboels live 9–11 years. Like other giant dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 6, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
With its family a well-bred Boerboel is usually calm, loyal and affectionate, but it is naturally confident and protective. It can be suspicious of strangers and may not tolerate other dogs, so it needs careful early socialisation and an experienced, consistent owner.
- Powerful
- Protective
- Confident
- Loyal
Food
For a typical 75 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 2,850 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 3 L–4.5 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Bloat is a risk in this breed: split food into smaller meals, avoid vigorous exercise for an hour either side of eating, and know the signs.
- Puppies of large breeds need a diet made for large-breed growth, so they grow steadily rather than fast.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
60–90 min a dayIt needs a good daily walk and some play to stay fit, but it is not built for long-distance running. Mental work and structured training sessions matter as much as physical exercise.
Grooming & shedding
The short coat needs only a weekly brush. Keep an eye on the eyes and eyelids, as some dogs have rolled-in or drooping lids.
Health
Ownership is restricted or banned in a number of countries and territories, including Denmark, France and Bermuda, so always check local laws before taking one on. Obedience training should start early, and puppies should be kept lean while growing. See a vet promptly for limping, eye irritation or fits.
The breed can be prone to
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Entropion and ectropion
- Vaginal hyperplasia
- Juvenile epilepsy
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scoring
- Eye examination
Not every Boerboel is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
The name comes from Afrikaans words meaning roughly 'farmer's bulldog'. Its ancestors were colonial mastiff and bulldog crosses kept on remote farms as guards and used to help hunt leopards and baboons. Selective breeding of the modern breed began in the 1950s, a breed association was founded in 1983, and a new breeders' society registered with the South African government in 2014. The AKC added the breed in 2015.
- Country of origin
- South Africa
- Type
- Mastiffs and guardian dogs
- Recognition
- Recognised by the AKC, UKC, the Kennel Union of Southern Africa and the South African Boerboel Breeders' Society; not recognised by the FCI or The Kennel Club
Is a Boerboel right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- Space, food and vet costs are a concern — giant breeds need more of all three
Cost to keep
Highest than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 9–11 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Boerboel FAQ
How big does a Boerboel get?
Adult Boerboels typically stand about 55–70 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 60–90 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Boerboels live?
Typically 9–11 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Boerboel need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Boerboel need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Boerboels easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Boerboels shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Boerboels good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Boerboel live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Boerboels have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, entropion and ectropion. Not every Boerboel is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.