Boerboel Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, UKC
About the Boerboel
The Boerboel is a large, powerful South African mastiff bred to guard remote farmsteads against predators and intruders. Muscular and imposing yet agile for its size, it carries a short dense coat and a broad, blocky head. Historically the last line of defense on the farm, it is fearless, confident, and deeply devoted to its family, especially children, whom it tends to watch over with gentle protectiveness. Naturally wary of strangers and territorial, the Boerboel demands an experienced owner committed to early socialization, obedience training, and firm, fair leadership. Well managed it is a calm, dependable guardian; without it, its size and drive can be a liability.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
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Where this breed shines
- Formidable, dependable property and family guardian
- Deeply loyal and protective of its household
- Low grooming needs with a short coat
- Gentle and watchful with familiar children
Things to consider
- Very large, powerful dog requiring experienced ownership
- Strong territorial and protective drives need heavy socialization
- Can be dominant or aggressive toward unfamiliar dogs
- Subject to breed-specific legislation in some areas
History
The Boerboel developed in South Africa from mastiff and bulldog-type dogs brought by Dutch, French, and British settlers from the 1600s onward, crossed with indigenous African dogs. Farmers, or 'boers,' relied on it to guard isolated homesteads and confront big cats and other threats. The breed nearly disappeared after urbanization but was revived by dedicated breeders in the late 20th century. It received AKC full recognition in the Working Group in 2015.
Temperament
Confident, calm, and intensely loyal, the Boerboel is a devoted family guardian with a strong protective instinct and deep attachment to its people. It is typically gentle and patient with its own children while remaining reserved and watchful toward strangers. Highly intelligent and territorial, it needs firm, consistent leadership and extensive socialization from puppyhood. It is dominant with unfamiliar dogs and best suited to experienced owners.
Questions to ask a Boerboel breeder
- Have the parents had hip, elbow, and heart screenings?
- What is the temperament and stability of the parents?
- How do you socialize puppies to people and situations?
- What ongoing training and guidance do you recommend?
Health considerations to discuss
Hip and elbow dysplasia. Very common in large mastiffs; insist on joint evaluations.
Bloat (gastric torsion). Deep chest raises risk; understand prevention and emergency care.
Vaginal hyperplasia and heart disease. Discuss breed-specific reproductive and cardiac screening with the breeder.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: American Kennel Club · Fédération Cynologique Internationale — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Boerboel litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Boerboel puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Boerboel listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How can I tell if a Boerboel breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.