This breed is everything one could want as a body guard or household guardian. Let's start with the appearance-- looks alone reveal plenty of Boerboel information. He/she is large to huge, well muscled and, most importantly, calm and confident. The blocky, broad head, itself, looks powerful with the robust jaws and slightly wrinkled forehead. The body is solid and also blocky with with a strong, straight back and muscular legs. The pigmented skin is loose but not wrinkled and is covered by a short, smooth (and glossy) coat.
1. Intelligence- An obedient yet confident demeanor helped this breed evolve and adept in new, harsh terrain. They are not very difficult to train for an owner experienced with large breeds. It's absolutely imperative to firmly establish yourself as the leader or else your Boerboel certainly will. Positive reinforcement and confidence are the two things needed to effectively train him/her. Socialization should take place immediately to prevent an over protective dog-- towards both animals and people.
2. Kids, Strangers, Pets- These "velcro dogs" may develop behavioral problems if not allowed to spend enough time with you every day. Members of this breed make top notch family companions; they will be affectionate playmates for children and protect the family to the death (if necessary). That being said, they will remain suspicious and aloof around strangers, if well trained, but may be aggressive if not. The same goes for other pets (especially dogs) as a well socialized Boerboel can exist well with other pets but, if not, may be aggressive towards other dogs.
3. Exercise- Although they may be lazy indoors, if allowed, this breed is large, powerful and needs adequate daily outdoor exercise to keep them in shape and productive. The Boerboel wiki recommends a minimum of a long daily walk but, ideally, an hour of outdoor exercise/playtime is best. A securely fenced yard is also recommended. A bored Boerboel is a destructive one.