Well-Muscled Boerboel Puppy

The history of the original Boerboel Farm Dog was that these dogs were used for utilitarian farm purposes -- protection against man and beast, herding and moving of livestock, etc. There is some concern that too many breeders are breeding for the marketing dollar -- what the public wants. Typically the buying public is looking for the largest dog they can find. No one knows why, other than the myth that a larger dog is more formidable, and therefore better. The problem is that if a breeder breeds for one quality -- size as an example, it will be to the detriment of the other qualities that make a Boerboel a Boerboel.

The Boerboel is supposedly the most athletic of the Mastiff breeds. This is true, to an extent. If current breeders continue to breed for "type" and don't sacrifice the original qualities of the Boerboel, then the Boerboel will continue to be a very athetic dog. If breeders start trying to follow the alimighy buck just to sell more puppies, then the Boerboel could be in trouble. We all know that the English Mastiff is pretty much an overgrown behemoth that has trouble getting out of its own way. My motto is that if you want a HUGE dog, get an English Mastiff, and be done with it! I like Mastiffs, don't get me wrong. I think they make great pets, they are reliable and they are great in a family lifestyle. I love my Boerboels, and I hope that breeders continue to breed for the traits that make a Boerboel a Boerboel.

These photos show Jaf (Quo Vadis Barracuda) from Quo Vadis Boerboels in South Africa, on his 8-month birthday. He is one well muscled 8-month-old puppy!