Health statistics

Data last updated: March 2026

Overview

The following statistics are based on our kennel-born dogs together with selected imported dogs used in our breeding program. Young litters (R, P and Q) are not included, as they are not yet at an age where meaningful health data can be collected.

In the statistics, "n" refers to the number of dogs that have been evaluated for that specific result. Not all dogs are tested for every category, which is why the total number varies between hips, elbows, spine, eyes and heart. Percentages are always calculated based on the number of tested dogs in each category.

Why we test and publish results

Boerboels are often described as a healthy breed, but health is not something that can be assumed. It needs to be measured and followed over time.

We test our dogs to understand what we are producing, not just individually but across generations. Results such as hips, elbows, spine, eyes and heart give us tools to make more informed decisions.

Publishing the results is equally important. Without open data, it is not possible to see patterns, identify risks or develop the breed in a responsible way. Every tested dog adds value to the bigger picture, including dogs living in pet homes.

Hip results (HD)
(n = 32 dogs)
A: 31.3% (10 dogs)
B: 28.1% (9 dogs)
C: 21.9% (7 dogs)
D: 15.6% (5 dogs)
E: 3.1% (1 dog)
The majority of dogs fall within the A–B range (59.4%, 19 dogs).

Elbows (ED)
(n = 34 dogs)
0/0: 73.5% (25 dogs)
0/1: 8.8% (3 dogs)
1/1: 8.8% (3 dogs)
1/2: 2.9% (1 dog)
3/3: 5.9% (2 dogs)
Higher grades are limited to isolated cases.

Knees (PL)
(n = 32 dogs)
0/0: 100% (32 dogs)
All tested dogs have been 0/0.
There have been 2 isolated knee injuries, both in dogs that were previously normal.

Spine

Spondylosis (SP)
(n = 25 dogs)
SP0: 96.0% (24 dogs)
SP1: 4.0% (1 dog)

LTV
(n = 25 dogs)
LTV0: 92.0% (23 dogs)
LTV1: 4.0% (1 dog)
LTV4: 4.0% (1 dog)
One individual case of a higher LTV finding has been recorded.

VA
(n = 25 dogs)
VA0: 100% (25 dogs)
Overall, spine findings have been minimal and scattered.

Eyes
(n = 29 dogs)
Normal: 89.7% (26 dogs)
Minor findings: 10.3% (3 dogs)

These include:
two cases of cherry eye (one surgically corrected)
mild entropion (1 dog)

Heart
(n = 28 dogs)
Normal: 100% (28 dogs)

DNA testing
DNA testing has been carried out using multiple laboratories, including Wisdom Panel and Embark. Some dogs have also been tested through the BIGS (Boerboel International Genetic Screening) program, performed by Genoscoper.

These tests cover a wide range of known genetic conditions. Carriers are present, which is expected in a diverse working gene pool, but no widespread or consistent genetic issues have been identified.

Tested vs not tested
Total dogs: 96
Tested: 41.7% (40 dogs)
Not tested: 58.3% (56 dogs)

Other findings
ED 3/3: 1 dog
ED 1/1: 3 dogs
ED 1/2: 1 dog
SP1: 1 dog
LTV1: 1 dog
LTV4: 1 dog
HD E: 1 dog
Cryptorchidism: 1 dog
Mild VH: 2 dogs

In summary

The results show variation, but not concentration of issues.

Across both kennel-born and imported dogs, the majority of results fall within functional ranges. Structural issues and health findings are limited and tend to appear as isolated cases rather than consistent patterns.

The goal has never been to produce perfect numbers, but dogs that are able to live, function and work without limitation. The statistics support that direction, while also providing a realistic and transparent view of the population.

In practice

The numbers are a tool, not a goal.

They help guide breeding decisions, but they do not replace the full evaluation of the dog. Structure, temperament, functionality and everyday stability remain just as important.

This is why we continue to test, follow and publish results over time — to build a clearer picture, not just for ourselves, but for the breed as a whole.