Attitude and character of the Boerboel
Boerboels are calm dogs by nature. They are not familiar with nervousness. Their main characteristics are self-confidence, fearlessness, courage and a strong protective instinct. They are obedient and loyal companions. The Boerboel was, is and will always be a guard dog. Nothing escapes their sense of alertness, which developed over hundreds of years of breeding. It is also able to quickly distinguish whether a visitor comes as a friend or an enemy. In the latter case, they will instinctively live up to their role as a protector and fearlessly confront any intruder. This dog is not aggressive by nature. As part of a family, they develop an intense strong bond with all family members and make lovable playmates, especially for children. Nevertheless, children should never be left unattended with this dog. The relationship between Boerboel and humans works best when it is built on honesty, trust and mutual respect. Then the Boerboel will be a loyal, obedient companion and friend throughout their lives.
The Boerboel is not a suitable dog for first-time owners.
It belongs in the hands of an experienced dog owner. This alone is dictated by its shier size and strength. If they are kept purely as a city or apartment dog without having their own area to guard, they will give little pleasure to their owner. Neighbours will also not be too fond of them. Their innate strong territorial behaviour and pronounced protective instinct completely goes against living in a city and being surrounded by a lot of people. But families in the country without immediate neighbours will appreciate the dog's qualities. An important requirement for species-appropriate keeping is an escape-proof large area, in which the dog can be an attentive guard in. At the same time, this provided it will also have sufficient space to run around in. The muscular dogs need a consequent education, training as well as a safe guidance already at an early age. Even though the Boerboel is characterised by great self-confidence and independence, he wants to please his humans. If he feels he is being treated fairly, he will also want to please his master.