About Boerboels
Boerboel – Strength, Heart, and Balance
The Boerboel is a unique breed that combines strength, intelligence, loyalty, and a deep bond with its family. It’s not a dog for everyone — but in the right hands, it becomes a loving, cooperative, and deeply present companion who forms a strong connection with its people.
The breed’s name comes from Dutch: “boer” means farmer, and “boel” means dog — making the Boerboel the “farmer’s dog.” It is the only dog breed originally developed in South Africa specifically for guarding farms and property. Though the world has changed, the Boerboel’s purpose and character remain deeply rooted in its working history.
A Working Dog’s Soul – Living at the Heart of a Family
Boerboels are incredibly devoted to their families and possess a remarkable ability to sense and respond to their owner’s emotions. Sensitive and affectionate, they thrive in close contact with their people, feeling safest within the family unit. At the same time, they are confident and courageous — ready to protect if the situation requires it. Boerboels are not naturally aggressive, but rather wise, thoughtful, and observant.
At Tuebor, our Boerboels are not kept in kennels or isolated — they live and grow as part of a large family household, involved in everyday life from morning routines to quiet evenings. Our children are included from the very beginning — helping with training, socializing puppies, and feeding. They learn respect and responsibility, and the dogs grow up socialized and calm around children.
Appearance That Reflects Heritage
The Boerboel is a powerful, muscular dog with a strong frame and a clearly defined sex type. Ideal height is around 66 cm for males and 61 cm for females, but height must always be proportionate to body structure.
Accepted coat colors include all shades of fawn, brown, and brindle — with or without a black mask. White markings are allowed. In addition to these, there are other known but less common coat patterns, including piebald (white with patches of color) and Irish marked (symmetrical white on chest, face, legs). These may not always be officially accepted in the show ring, but they are part of the Boerboel's broader genetic heritage, especially in some older lines.
Despite their size, Boerboels move with agility and purpose — they are capable of reacting quickly and moving efficiently even in difficult terrain.
Temperament and Daily Life – Presence and Leadership
Boerboels require training, structure, and consistent, fair leadership. They are intelligent, eager to learn, and enjoy working together with their people. Trust and clear guidance are essential — without it, the Boerboel may feel the need to make its own decisions. This is not a breed for someone seeking a low-maintenance or independent dog.
Due to their strong pack drive, Boerboels are not dogs meant to live alone outside. They want to be part of daily life — living indoors with their family, sharing the household and participating in moments both big and small. When left alone without regular contact, they may become frustrated, develop unwanted behaviors, or try to "guard" the yard unnecessarily.
Early Socialization Shapes the Adult Dog
Broad, intentional socialization in puppyhood is essential for Boerboels. Young dogs are adaptable and curious, and positive early experiences help them grow into balanced, confident adults. It’s vital to expose the puppy safely to new people, animals, places, and sounds. Avoiding traumatic or overly stressful situations is important — especially involving aggressive or reactive dogs.
Well-balanced adult dogs are often the best teachers for younger ones — modeling appropriate behavior and communication. Boerboels can be wonderful family dogs, including in homes with children, but like with all breeds, interactions between children and dogs must always be supervised by an adult. Children should be taught to treat dogs respectfully and calmly.
Not for Everyone – But Everything to the Right Owner
Boerboels are not typically dog-park dogs. While some individuals may tolerate unfamiliar dogs, most Boerboels — especially adults — do not naturally get along with dominant, same-sex dogs. Introductions must always be made carefully and responsibly, with close observation of body language and boundaries.
From experience, we also advise considering the sex of the puppy when there is already an adult dog at home. Choosing the opposite sex often reduces the risk of future conflicts, particularly with strong or dominant personalities.
Our Roots and the Boerboel Community
Tuebor Boerboels was not built in isolation. We’ve had the privilege of being part of a strong, supportive Boerboel community — both in Finland and abroad. Over the years, we’ve shared friendship, mentorship, and wisdom with many long-time breeders, some of whom are no longer with us, and others who continue to shape the breed today.
Through them, we’ve gained invaluable knowledge about the breed’s health, structure, temperament, and most importantly, its history and original purpose. Their stories and support have shaped the values we carry into our own breeding and daily life with Boerboels.
The Boerboel is not just a dog. It is a family member, a protector, a companion, and a mirror of your own energy. It offers its loyalty and love to those who give it time, structure, and care. If you're looking for a dog with whom you can build a true bond and share a life together — the Boerboel might just be the perfect fit.
At Tuebor, we’re here to ensure that your future companion is well-balanced, physically and mentally sound, and proudly carries the strength and heritage of the Boerboel breed into the future.
