Boerboel, also known as South African Mastiff, is a large, muscular dog breed that originated in South Africa. They were bred as working dogs to guard farms, hunt big game, and protect their owners from wild animals and intruders. Nowadays, Boerboel is a popular companion dog that is loved for their loyalty, protectiveness, and affectionate nature.
Why Choose Boerboel?
There are many reasons why Boerboel is a great choice for a companion dog. Firstly, they are very loyal and protective of their owners, making them excellent watchdogs and guardians. They are also very affectionate with their families, and they love to cuddle and play. Boerboels are also highly intelligent and trainable, making them great for obedience training and agility competitions. Lastly, Boerboels are known for their robust health and longevity, with an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years.
How To Find Boerboel For Sale
If you’re interested in getting a Boerboel for your family, there are several ways to find reputable breeders or rescues that have Boerboels for sale:
1. Online Directories
You can use online directories such as the American Kennel Club or the Boerboel Breeders Association to find reputable breeders near you. These directories often list breeder contact information, as well as the breeders’ certifications, testimonials, and breeding philosophies. You can also use these directories to research Boerboel breeders in your area and make informed decisions about where to buy your Boerboel.
2. Social Media Groups
You can also join Boerboel-specific social media groups on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, or Reddit to connect with other Boerboel owners or breeders. These groups often have classified ads for Boerboel puppies or adults that are for sale or adoption. You can also use these groups to ask questions about Boerboel care, training, or health, and to connect with other Boerboel enthusiasts.
3. Animal Shelters or Rescues
If you’re looking for a Boerboel for adoption, you can check your local animal shelters or rescues. Many Boerboels end up in shelters or rescues due to owners’ lifestyle changes, moving, or financial hardship. Adopting a Boerboel from a shelter or rescue can be a rewarding experience, as you can provide a loving home to a dog in need while also saving money on adoption fees.
What To Look For In A Boerboel Breeder
When you’re looking for a Boerboel breeder, it’s essential to find a reputable and responsible breeder who cares about the health and welfare of their dogs. Here are some qualities to look for in a Boerboel breeder:
1. Health Certifications
Good Boerboel breeders should be able to provide health certifications for their dogs, including hip and elbow scores, cardiac and ophthalmologist evaluations, and DNA testing for common genetic diseases. These certifications ensure that the Boerboels are healthy and free from genetic conditions that can affect their quality of life.
2. Socialization
Boerboel puppies should be socialized from an early age to different people, dogs, and environments to prevent aggression and fearfulness. A responsible breeder should expose their puppies to various stimuli and provide them with early training and positive reinforcement to create confident and well-behaved adult Boerboels.
3. Temperament Testing
A reputable breeder should also conduct temperament testing on their puppies to assess their personalities and match them with suitable homes. Boerboels should be friendly, confident, and stable, and they should have a natural guarding instinct without being overly aggressive or reactive. A breeder should be willing to provide you with a puppy that matches your lifestyle and preferences, and they should have a long-term commitment to the puppy’s wellbeing.
Boerboel Care and Maintenance
Boerboels are relatively low-maintenance dogs, but they still require some care and attention to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for your Boerboel:
1. Grooming
Boerboels have short, dense coats that shed moderately year-round. You should brush your Boerboel once a week with a slicker brush or rubber curry comb to remove loose hair and distribute natural oils. Boerboels also need occasional baths, nail trimming, and ear cleaning to prevent infections and keep them smelling fresh.
2. Exercise
Boerboels are large, energetic dogs that need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. You should provide your Boerboel with at least 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day, including walks, runs, fetch, or tug games. Boerboels also enjoy hiking, swimming, or agility training, so you can vary their activities to prevent boredom.
3. Training
Boerboels are intelligent, eager-to-please dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement training. You should start training your Boerboel from an early age and use reward-based methods such as treats, praise, and play to encourage good behavior. Boerboels also benefit from socialization with other dogs and people to develop good manners and avoid aggression or fearfulness.
Conclusion
Boerboels are amazing dogs that make loyal, protective, and affectionate companions. If you’re interested in getting a Boerboel for your family, make sure to find a reputable breeder or rescue that cares about the health and welfare of their dogs. Once you have your Boerboel, provide them with proper care, exercise, and training, and enjoy their company for many years to come.
FAQs
1. How much does a Boerboel puppy cost?
The cost of a Boerboel puppy varies depending on the breeder, location, and bloodlines. On average, you can expect to pay between $2000 to $5000 for a Boerboel puppy from a reputable breeder.
2. Are Boerboels good with children?
Boerboels can be excellent family dogs that are good with children when they are socialized and trained properly. However, due to their large size and protective nature, Boerboels should always be supervised when around small children to prevent accidental injuries or aggression.
3. Do Boerboels have any health problems?
Like all dog breeds, Boerboels are susceptible to certain health problems such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat, cancer, and heart disease. It’s important to choose a reputable breeder who tests their dogs for these conditions and provides health guarantees for their puppies.
4. Do Boerboels need a lot of exercise?
Boerboels are energetic dogs that need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. You should provide your Boerboel with at least 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day, including walks, runs, and playtime.
5. Are Boerboels aggressive?
Boerboels can be protective and territorial dogs that are wary of strangers and other animals. However, with proper socialization, training, and supervision, Boerboels can be well-behaved and friendly pets that are loyal to their families.
