Full Grown South African Boerboel: Size, Lifespan & More

The South African Boerboel is an ancient mastiff breed known for its massive size, intimidating physique, and steadfast loyalty. Though gentle with its owners, the Boerboel was bred to fearlessly protect farms in South Africa from threats like dangerous wildlife.

Here is a guide to what you can expect from this powerful guardian dog once it reaches full maturity.

About the South African Boerboel Breed

The Boerboel has inhabited South Africa for centuries, developing amidst the isolated farmsteads known as "boer-farms." Originally, any large dog found on these properties was referred to as a "boer-hond," but selective breeding soon crafted the formidable dog we know today.

Boerboels were relied upon to safeguard homesteads, livestock, and families from predators and threats. Their intimidating size and courage made them well-suited for the task.

Size at Full Growth

On average, a fully mature male Boerboel will stand around 28 inches (71 cm) tall at the shoulder. Females are slightly smaller at around 26 inches (66 cm). In terms of length, Boerboels measure 3-4 feet (91-122 cm) from nose to tail. Their massive bodies are dense with muscle.

Weight at Full Growth

At full size, male Boerboels typically weigh between 150-200 pounds (68-90 kg). Females carry slightly less bulk, averaging 100-150 pounds (45-68 kg). Their substantial physique requires high-quality nutrition to develop properly without excess fat.

Appearance at Full Growth

Visually imposing, the fully developed Boerboel cuts an intimidating silhouette. Rugged and robust, they boast broad skulls, thick necks, and muscular builds. Their short coats come in fawn, brindle, or red colors. Dark eyes sit below a slightly domed forehead, giving them an intelligent yet menacing air. Dramatic jowls, loose skin, and folds lend an air of nobility and strength.

Personality at Full Growth

Though fiercely loyal guardians, well-socialized Boerboels can be affectionate family companions once fully matured. Calm and composed, their balanced temperaments allow them to distinguish threats from non-threats.

Innately confident and courageous, they have no tolerance for bullying or dangerous behavior. Boerboels require firm, patient training from a young age to accept leadership from their owners.

Price

Expect to pay anywhere from $1,500-$4,000 USD for a well-bred Boerboel puppy from a reputable breeder. Prices may vary slightly based on gender, bloodline, and demand in your area.

Be prepared for boarding, basic supplies, veterinary costs, training classes, and food to cost at least $500 per year once the dog reaches adulthood.

Feeding a Fully Grown Boerboel

By maturity, Boerboels have demanding caloric needs to fuel their massive frames. A typical adult will eat 6-8 cups of a high-quality dry kibble per day, divided into two meals.

Look for foods formulated for giant or large-breed dogs, with at least 22% protein and 15% fat. Provide fresh, clean water daily. You may also offer occasional raw meaty bones or cooked protein as supplements.

Lifespan

When well cared for, a Boerboel's average lifespan is 10-12 years. Some individuals live slightly longer. Regular wellness exams, appropriate nutrition, dental care, and safe living conditions help maximize their longevity. Sadly, trauma, cancer, and joint issues do sometimes affect the breed earlier.

Health at Full Growth

By maturity, diligent owners will have established a preventative healthcare routine tailored to the Boerboel. This includes annual checkups, tests, vaccines, heartworm/flea prevention, dental cleanings, and regular exercise.

Common conditions include hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, allergies, skin issues, and retinal dysplasia. breed-responsible health testing reduces risks. Vigilance around injuries or new symptoms is key.

Care Needs of a Fully Grown Boerboel

Though independent, Boerboels still require committed care. Daily activities help them stay fit, stimulated and trained.

This includes lengthy walks/play, training sessions, grooming 2-3 times weekly, and regular affection/bonding time.

They are not suited for apartments and need securely fenced yards with shelter. Regular socialization prevents aggression. High-quality food and fresh water must always be available.

Cost of Owning a Fully Grown Boerboel

In addition to the puppy costs outlined above, expect to pay roughly $1,500-$2,500 per year in maintenance fees once your Boerboel matures.

This encompasses food, preventative healthcare, supplies, training/classes, boarding, toys, equipment and occasionally medical procedures or medications if issues arise.

Only consider this breed if fully prepared to financially commit its entire lifespan.

Possible Behavioral Changes at Maturity

Well-bred and socialized Boerboels tend to mellow with age into calm, confident watchdogs. However, some behavior quirks like clinginess, territorial aggression, fearfulness or barrier frustration may emerge or intensify after sexual maturity (1-2 years).

Patient counter-conditioning and obedience training helps address any unwanted habits before they escalate. Rehoming is not recommended for behaviorally challenged adults.

Notable Characteristics in Adulthood

By full maturity, your Boerboel's stoic yet protective nature makes them well-suited to live peacefully alongside familiar livestock, companion dogs or small children when properly introduced.

Their keen discernment and physical stature also deters would-be intruders from the property.

Loyal and affectionate with their humans, Boerboels become regally calm ambassadors of the breed in adulthood when treated with kindness and respect.

Suitability as a family pet

While the Boerboel breed was created to fearlessly guard large farms and homesteads from threats, well-socialized individuals can adjust to domestic pet life when with an experienced owner.

Their size, strength and protection instincts require an owner committed to ongoing socialization, training and management.

Boerboels generally do best in rural or suburban homes with experience owning large breeds and access to a securely fenced yard. Their affection makes them great companions though not suited for all families or apartment living due to space needs

Finally

In summary, the South African Boerboel develops into an awe-inspiring guardian of substantial size, strength and conviction by full maturity. Committed owners who understand their needs can expect a calm yet courageous family protector for many years to come. Their considerable lifespans necessitate advanced planning and care from dedicated handlers prepared to meet all their physical and social requirements. With patience and consistency, this noble mastiff breed rewards its humans with unconditional loyalty.