boerboel dog

The Boerboel is the canine equivalent of a bodyguard with a PhD in intimidation. This South African mastiff is a hefty beast, tipping the scales at 50-90 kg and standing around 60-70 cm tall. They boast a short, dense coat that comes in various shades of brown, brindle, or fawn, perfect for blending into the bushveld or your suburban backyard. Known for their loyalty and protective instincts, Boerboels require a confident owner and plenty of space to roam—think less apartment, more acreage. Their price tag in Australia ranges from about $2,500 to $4,500 AUD for a new pup, with used or older dogs sometimes available on sites like PuppyList. Like any large breed, they come with a few grumbles:

• prone to hip dysplasia
• potential for separation anxiety
• needs consistent training to curb stubbornness