[Reptyle]

Has anyone had any experience with these dogs? I've been doing some research, but prefer to hear from people who have no interest in selling me a dog. Pancho, Pops2...I figure one or both of you have heard of and may have experience with these dogs...But, I'm interested in hearing from anyone.

 

[Pops2]

no personal hands on experience, they aren't really used much for hunting. i have seen some good pics & video of some doing bitework. i do know John Blackwell a little, he is extremely knowledgeable about bulldogs in general. he told me they were like APBTs in personality, very happy, eager to please, no quit but w/ the addition of a protective nature.
you might try talking to Butch Cappel or Paul Cipirano(sp) they are icons in personal protection dog training. they can be found via Bandog Banter. http://members.boardhost.com/bandog/

 

[Rogo]

Never heard of the breed. Sure looks a lot like my Pit Bull (the head and coat, not the long body or short legs).

 

[Reptyle]

Rogo,
I'm afraid I gotta disagree with you on the appearance. I don't believe that they resemble a pit bull at all. My understanding of the breed is that they originated in Africa...That pic actually resembles a Ridgeback more so than a pit.

 

[Vera]

Nothing specific here about the breed, except what you read on websites about them. As most "new" (to America) breeds, these dogs are touted as just about perfect, guarding by pure instinct against the friendly burglar while leaving the fearful mailman alone, loving the family, etc. etc. There's a woman in the AZ town I moved from who breeds them.

I suppose that since they're "new", you have a decent chance at getting a decent dog from a decent breeder. Backyard breeders aren't likely to pay a lot to import stock from Africa. As they become more known and popular, animal quality will most likely plummet and prices skyrocket, like with all the other breeds that were developed carefully elsewhere over a long time and then are brought into this country and turned into a fad and ruined.

*Sigh*.

 

[via media]

I met and spent time with several Boerboels when I was in South Africa and Zambia. The ones I had contact with were well socialized and made great family pets, trusted to watch the home and the children. They were intelligent, sensible, calm dogs who weren't upset to have a houseful of strangers around, talking and laughing, coming and going.

They do, of course, require responsible ownership and proper training/socialization.

From what I've seen, some American breeders seem to be busy beefing up the breed, making them heavier. I personally prefer the South African standard. As far as I know, the dogs do not have any pit bull in them, although perhaps some people may be mixing them now?

/VM

 

[Pops2]

Vera
unfortunately the BYBs & puppymills are already in place not just here but in South Africa as well.

Via
there are some being crossed to pits in South Africa to make bandogs for personal protection mostly in the cities. since the BB is 140-160# for an adult male the cross results in a more agile & more athletic protection dog in in the 80-110# range.

 

[Rogo]

The photo I posted looks like a twin of my American Pit Bull Terrier, even the color. My dog only weighs 55 pounds, tho.

Here's the site I took it from:

http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/boerboel.htm

 

[Filas are Prima]

Boerboels are neat.
But, I've sold several Fila puppies to Boerboel owners, (and Bull Mastiff owners) as they've not realised enough hard temperment from their Boerboels, and DO need protection.
Possibly if your breeder has the knowledge, they can select for you the most agressive, tough baby in their litter for you.
It is always a mistake to go for size increase in breeding selection-a common American characteristic in everything. I try and select for athletic animals with enough skeletal soundness to follow a horse, or bicycle-a good test for any of the working breeds.
Boerboels were created for the necessities of the African farmer. Search out breeders who live that lifestyle, and you may find the dog of your dreams.