How to Identify a Boerboel

Boerboels are Mastiff-type dogs and members of the working group. They are farm dogs known for their ability to protect. [1] Even though they share a few characteristics with other dog breeds, they have several distinguishing ones as well. This wikiHow will help you with figuring out whether or not a dog is a Boerboel.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Taking a Look at the Body Structure

  1. Boerboels are relatively large dogs overall, with males being anywhere from 24–27 inches (61–69 cm) tall, and females being anywhere from 22–25 inches (56–64 cm) tall. Both male and female Boerboels can weigh anywhere from 150–200 pounds (68–91 kg). [2]
  2. Boerboels typically have a muscular, square head that is also deep, blocky, and broad. The dog's cheeks should be filled well and in proportion to their body, and when the dog is interested, you may notice a moderate level of wrinkling over their forehead. [3]
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  3. Boerboels should have ears that are medium in size and in the shape of a V, with leather that is medium. The dog's ears should taper to a point that is rounded and reach close to a line that extends from the dog's mouth. The ears should also be set wide, and the dog should carry them close to their head. [4]
  4. Boerboels have eyes that are medium in size, and they should not recede or protrude. The eyes should face forwards and be spaced wide. The eyes may be any shade of brown, though they should ideally be of a darker color than the dog's coat. [5]
  5. Boerboels should have a thick tail that is set relatively high on the dog. The tail is also covered well with hair, and you should not notice any kink. The tail may be docked or undocked; if it is docked, this usually occurs at either the 3rd or 4th caudal vertebrae, while if the tail is undocked, when the dog is standing, it should reach to their hocks, and you should notice a little upwards curve when the dog is in motion or excited. [6]
  6. Overall, a Boerboel should have a muscular, strong appearance, with a powerful, agile gait that demonstrates purpose. [7]
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Analyzing the Coat

  1. Boerboels may be fawn, Irish Marked, cream, reddish brown, brown, or red. You may also notice brindling, as well as a black mask. In addition, the dog may be piebald (white with various markings that are colored), though there should be no ticking or spots within the white coloring, and the dog may not be more than 33% white. Sometimes, you may notice white patches that are clear on the dog's forechest and legs. [8]
  2. Boerboels should have a coat with a smooth texture. [9]
  3. Overall, Boerboels should have a dense coat that is short in length and appears shiny. [10]
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Noticing Temperament

  1. Boerboels are known to be protective dogs, and they make good guardians. However, at times, they may be overprotective, so this is something to be aware of. [11]
  2. Boerboels are known to love their family, including children, though it's important to note that their size may result in them knocking small children over accidentally. [12]
  3. Though Boerboels are loving and protective of their family, if they do not receive the proper socialization and training, they may become aggressive and territorial. [13]
  4. Therefore, they will need consistent and firm (yet not harsh) training so that a clear leader is established. [14]
  5. Boerboels should receive daily exercise, and will need a lot of space for this, through things like walks/hikes or games of fetch. [15]
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      Tips

      • If you want to know what your dog's breed is, consider dog DNA testing. This can help confirm whether or not your dog is a Boerboel.
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      Warnings

      • If you're wanting to get a Boerboel, be aware that Boerboels are considered to be dangerous and thus banned or restricted in some areas. Therefore, you'll want to check for any dog breed bans in your area before bringing this dog into your family.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/boerboel/
      2. ↑ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/boerboel/
      3. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Boerboel.pdf
      4. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Boerboel.pdf
      5. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Boerboel.pdf
      6. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Boerboel.pdf
      7. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Boerboel.pdf
      8. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Boerboel.pdf
      9. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Boerboel.pdf
      1. ↑ https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Boerboel.pdf
      2. ↑ https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/boerboel#/slide/1
      3. ↑ https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/boerboel#/slide/1
      4. ↑ https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/boerboel#/slide/1
      5. ↑ https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/boerboel#/slide/1
      6. ↑ https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/boerboel#/slide/1

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