What to Think About Before Getting a Boerboel Dog

If you’re thinking of adding a Boerboel to your life, you probably already know they’re big, bold, and built like tanks. But there’s so much more to these South African mastiffs than just size. I’ve had the chance to spend time with a few Boerboels over the years, and let me tell you—they’re impressive dogs. Loyal, affectionate, and protective, but also not for the faint of heart.

Here’s a quick guide to what it’s really like to live with a Boerboel, and whether this powerful breed is the right fit for your home.

What You’re Signing Up For

Boerboels are giants—think 110 to 200 pounds of pure muscle. They’re one of the largest mastiff-type breeds, but they’re also more athletic and agile than, say, an English Mastiff. That makes them excellent guard dogs, but it also means they’re not couch potatoes. Expect a dog that wants to move, play, and patrol your yard.

They’re also incredibly loyal and affectionate with their people. A Boerboel raised well will follow you from room to room and happily nap at your feet. But they’re naturally wary of strangers—human or animal. So, early and ongoing socialization is non-negotiable.

Can They Be Family Dogs?

Absolutely, but with caveats. If raised with children, Boerboels are usually gentle and protective. That said, their size can lead to accidental bumps and tumbles, especially with toddlers. And when visitors or neighborhood kids come over? You’ll need to be extra cautious unless your Boerboel has been thoroughly socialized.

Other pets? It depends. If they grow up with other dogs or cats, they can coexist peacefully. But tossing an adult Boerboel into a multi-pet household without preparation? Not a great idea.

Training and Temperament

Boerboels are smart and willing to learn—but also independent. They need a confident, experienced handler who sets firm, consistent boundaries. Food and praise go a long way here, but you’ve got to stay ahead of the game. A 200-pound dog that doesn’t listen is a serious problem.

They’re not barky unless something’s up, which makes them great watchdogs. And no, they’re not likely to bite their owners unless severely mistreated—these dogs are deeply loyal.

Health and Lifespan

For a giant breed, Boerboels are relatively healthy. They tend to outlive other mastiffs, often reaching 10 to 12 years if well cared for. Still, you’ll want to watch for issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, heart disease, and eye problems like entropion or ectropion. Get your pup from a reputable breeder who screens for health conditions—it’s worth every penny.

They don’t handle extreme temperatures well—hot or cold. So if you live somewhere with harsh winters or blazing summers, you’ll need to make adjustments for their comfort.

Exercise and Living Space

These dogs need a lot of exercise—at least 2 hours a day. Think brisk walks, fetch, or off-leash time in a securely fenced area. A yard helps (and it needs to be solidly fenced), but it’s not a substitute for real activity. Apartment living? Not ideal unless you’re super committed to daily outdoor time and have enough space indoors.

Swimming is a big win for this breed—they love it, and it’s a great way to burn energy without stressing their joints.

Grooming and Shedding

Boerboels have short, dense coats with an undercoat, so regular brushing (a few times a week) will help manage shedding. They’re not hypoallergenic, and yes, they shed—but not excessively if you keep up with grooming.

Color-wise, you’ll see them in red, brown, brindle, cream, and even black. All gorgeous, all low-maintenance in terms of coat care.

Cost and Legal Stuff

Expect to pay $1,500 to $2,000 for a well-bred Boerboel puppy. That might sound steep, but given the breed’s health and working potential, it’s a fair price for a responsibly bred dog.

One important note: Boerboels are banned or restricted in several countries due to their strength and history with dog fighting rings. Always check your local laws before committing.

Boerboel vs. Bullmastiff

If you’re torn between a Boerboel and a Bullmastiff, here’s the gist: Boerboels are more energetic, healthier overall, and less prone to breathing issues (they don’t have the squished faces). Bullmastiffs are calmer and might be a better fit for more laid-back households. Both are loyal and protective, just in slightly different packages.

Final Thoughts

I’ve always admired the Boerboel’s mix of power and heart. This is a dog that will guard your home with quiet confidence, then curl up next to you like a lapdog (a very, very large lapdog). But they’re not beginner dogs. They need experienced, responsible owners willing to put in the time for training, exercise, and socialization.

If that sounds like you—and you’ve got the space and energy to match—then the Boerboel might just be your perfect match.