What We Look For in the Boerboel
The main breed register for the Boerboel is the SABT. Boerboels can also be registered with other groups, including in the U.S. the USBA and the ABC. The Boerboel is now also eligible for registration with the AKC under their Foundation Stock program (FSS).
The SABT Breed Standard does an excellent job at describing and testing what a Boerboel should look like. It does not, however, test for what a Boerboel should be able to do nor does it test temperament in any substantial way. There exists an extensive debate about the working Boerboel and how to test for the traits the historical Boerboel is said to have had. Our Boerboels have been temperament tested in addition to being SABT appraised.
You can read the SABT breed standard, and other information at www.sabt-usa.org and www.sabt.co.za.
From a working perspective, a Boerboel should be able to complete the functions of a farm protection dog, to be a companion with sound nerve and correct temperament, and neither overly aggressive nor shy. The Boerboel should be agile enough to jump into the back of a truck, to keep up with a horse and to help out with farm tasks. He must be able to protect his owner and their property from humans and animals that invade his territory. These things cannot be tested for from merely appraising the looks of the dog, in our opinion.
You can see some working Boerboels on www.youtube.com and search working Boerboels. These Boerboels are not connected with our breeding and in no way promote what we do, but are fine examples of what to look for in a Boerboel.
You can see our training videos here
Raja (I know, she isn't a Boerboel, but the video is worth watching)