| Country of origin: | Africa (South Africa) |
| Registries: | United States Boerboel Association |
| Occupation: | Working dog, guard dog |
| Size: | 22 to 30 in tall; weight proportionate to height |
| Longevity: | 9 to 10 years |
| Exercise: | Low to moderate |
| Training: | Hard to keep challenged |
| Grooming: | Easy |
| Colors: | with and without a black mask : fawns, blacks, reds, browns, brindle, piebald, and Irish markings |
The South African Boerboel is a versatile breed with a long history as a hunter and guardian, with ancient roots going back to dogs that came with immigrants to South Africa, primarily in the 1600s and 1700s. They definitely have some Mastiff ancestry, but a variety of other breeds were also used. This is a large breed that stands between 22 and 30 inches tall with a heavy boned muscular body in proportion to her height. The head is broad and muzzle wide, and the ears are dropped. The back is strong and broad, the chest is deep, and the tail is docked. The coat is short and smooth. Acceptable colors include brindle, tawny, brown, and red brown, all with or without white markings; a dark muzzle is preferred.