The South African mastiff, which is also known as the Boerboel and the farmer's dog, is a breed that has a long history of providing both service and companionship to people. While as the name suggests, this breed came out of the very southern tip of the Africa, it has justifiably gained popularity all over the world for its intelligence, its fierce protective instinct and its impressive strength. This dog breed is quite healthy, occurring as a cross between two very separated breeds, and though it has the same problems with hip dysplasia that so many of the larger, heavier breeds will, the South African mastiff is a very hardy animal.



This breed has its origins in the large and powerful mastiffs from the Netherlands that were brought over by the European settlers and then crossbred with the native African dogs. The result was a breed that combined strength and speed with a special fearlessness that was essential for the farmers working in a foreign country. These dogs were herders and guard dogs, and they excelled at their jobs. Even today the South African mastiff is considered one of the best dogs to be used when it comes to police work or guard work.

One of the things that distinguishes this breed is that it is considered one of the few guard dogs that has not developed a reputation for aggression or destructiveness. The South African mastiff has a longstanding reputation for gentleness and good humor, and though like any dog it should be supervised around young children, it is surprisingly gentle. It is important to note, though that many generations of guarding have given this breed a strong instinct territoriality and that visitors should be introduced to this dog as being safe as soon as they arrive on the property.

If the South African mastiff is a breed that you are considering, there are several things to keep in mind. The first thing is that these dogs are quite strong and will need an owner that is capable of maintaining dominance. Because this breed is so powerful, it is also necessary that socialization begin as early as possible and in as constructive an atmosphere as possible. A new South African mastiff puppy should be enrolled in an obedience school or a training program that has often dealt with this breed, and they should get used to any animals and children that will be living with them as soon as possible.

The South African mastiff can make an excellent companion for the right family and situation, and as you can see, this is a breed that has a lot to offer!