What You May Want to Know Before Adopting An African Boerboel

Boerboels are Gentle Giants That May Be Perfect For Your Family

African Borboels (pronounced burbulls) were bred in South Africa to protect farms and homes from predators and used to hunt wounded game. The history of Boerboels is varied but the AKC believes the breed started with the African native Landrace and several different large European breeds such as the bullmastiff. In several countries the breed has been outlawed because they have been imported to fight illegally but are actually wonderful additions to any family even with children or other pets. Here are a few other facts you may not know about the animals.
Need positive reinforcement

Borboels are incredibly eager to please. This breed is highly intelligent and active. They enjoy learning and working with their family to help them. They need to be trained properly with plenty of encouragement to be productive members of your household. Be sure to work with your new family member several times a day with the commands you desire for them to learn. If not given clear commands that are well reinforced they can become anxious and destructive. The breed regularly reaches 150 pounds at least. They can create much more damage than just a chewed up pair of heels when left without any direction.

Recognized by AKC this year

Just this year the AKC recognized Borboels as a breed. This is because it can be difficult to place their lineage. With time and the focus of many loving owners and enthusiast that has changed. Now they can be protected, bred responsibly, and taken care of properly by owners. Because this breed has been used in several countries such as Denmark, Russia, and Ukraine in dog fighting rings they have not always been properly protected or cared for. Luckily now that they are recognized by the AKC there can be safe guard and regulations put in place to keep the breed safe.

Fantastic family dog

Because the breed was made to be protective and territorial they are a great family dog to guard your household. They are incredibly gentle with small children and other animals especially those within their family unit. When adopting a Borboel be sure to understand the strength behind your pet. Explain to your children that while the dog will be gentle and caring it may also forget its own strength. By respecting your pet they will do the same for you.

Borboels are wonderful additions to any family. With plenty of love, room, and patience these dogs can become a best friend to last for many years. If you’re interested in adopting a Borboel first go to your local animal shelter to see if you can rescue anyone in need of a home. Otherwise be sure to find a reputable breeder with fantastic references.

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boerboel

Boerboel