You didn’t land on the Boerboel by accident. This is a breed people seek out, and for good reason. The South African farm dog, dominant, confident, and deeply loyal, and not for first-time owners, they’re a natural fit for highly experienced protection or working dog owners who have owned powerful guardian breeds before who want a powerfully dominant, loyal, and capable guardian for the most experienced large-dog owners only. Let’s dig in.
What are the characteristics of a Boerboel?
Think you know what you’re getting into with a Boerboel? These scores will either confirm your suspicions or give you something to think about. Either way, good to know now.
Training
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Trainability | 3 out of 5 | Intelligent and trainable but require a confident, experienced handler from day one |
| Obedience | 3 out of 5 | Can be reliable with consistent, experienced handling. Inconsistency creates problems with a dog this powerful |
| Focus | 3 out of 5 | Focused in working contexts with an engaged handler |
| Stubbornness | 4 out of 5 | Independent and dominant. They will test handler authority consistently |
Friendliness
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Good with family | 5 out of 5 | Totally devoted to their family. Their protection is instinctive and complete |
| Good with children | 3 out of 5 | Can be good with children in the household. Their size calls for constant supervision |
| Good with strangers | 1 out of 5 | Suspicious and territorial with strangers. Extensive socialization is essential |
| Good with other dogs | 2 out of 5 | Can be dog-aggressive, particularly with same-sex dogs of a similar size |
Adaptability
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment living | 1 out of 5 | Not suited to apartment living |
| Cold weather | 3 out of 5 | Their short coat handles moderate cool weather |
| Hot weather | 3 out of 5 | Tolerates moderate heat |
| Routine flexibility | 1 out of 5 | Needs a working or secure property environment with consistent routine |
| First time owner | 1 out of 5 | Not for first-time owners under any circumstances |
Physical needs
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Energy level | 4 out of 5 | High energy and significant athletic capacity |
| Endurance | 4 out of 5 | Good endurance. Built for farm work and protection |
| Exercise needs | 4 out of 5 | Needs 45 to 60 minutes of vigorous daily exercise |
| Mental stimulation | 3 out of 5 | Intelligent and situationally aware |
| Grooming needs | 1 out of 5 | Short, smooth coat that requires almost no grooming |
Personality
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Playfulness | 3 out of 5 | Playful with trusted family |
| Affection | 5 out of 5 | Deeply devoted and affectionate with their inner circle |
| Loyalty | 5 out of 5 | One of the more fiercely loyal guardian breeds |
| Independence | 3 out of 5 | Self-sufficient with appropriate independence |
| Alertness | 4 out of 5 | Alert and watchful |
Behavior
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Barking tendency | 2 out of 5 | Not nuisance barkers |
| Digging tendency | 1 out of 5 | Low digging tendency |
| Chewing tendency | 2 out of 5 | Low chewing in adults |
| Prey drive | 3 out of 5 | Moderate prey drive |
| Guarding instincts | 5 out of 5 | One of the most effective natural guard dogs in the world |
What are common health issues of a Boerboel?
Like all breeds, Boerboels are prone to certain health conditions. Here’s what to keep on your radar.
Hip Dysplasia
The hip joint develops abnormally, causing pain and arthritis over time. Boerboels are a large, heavy breed, and their size puts significant extra strain on affected joints as they age.
Read more about Hip DysplasiaElbow Dysplasia
A developmental condition affecting the elbow joint during growth. It is common in large breeds like the Boerboel and often causes front-leg lameness that may need management or surgery.
Read more about Elbow DysplasiaGastric Dilatation-Volvulus
The stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood flow. It is a life-threatening emergency. Deep-chested breeds like the Boerboel are at elevated risk. Act immediately if signs appear.
Read more about Gastric Dilatation-VolvulusHeart Disease
Boerboels are prone to heart conditions that can develop and worsen over time. Regular cardiac checkups are important, especially as your dog gets older and reaches middle age.
Read more about Heart DiseaseEntropion
A condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing lashes to rub against the eye surface. It is seen in Boerboels and causes irritation and tearing. Surgery is usually needed to correct it.
Read more about EntropionWhat are the recommended health tests for Boerboels?
Your Boerboel can’t tell you when something’s off. That’s what these tests are for. Here’s what vets typically recommend for them.
-
OFA hip and elbow evaluation -
Cardiac evaluation by a board-certified cardiologist
-
CAER ophthalmologist eye exam
-
OFA thyroid evaluation
Do Boerboels need pet insurance?
We’ll let the numbers do the talking, but spoiler: a lot of Boerboel owners are really glad they had coverage.
Those numbers aren’t hypotheticals. They’re real claims from real Boerboel owners in 2025.
The right pet insurance means you’re making decisions based on what your dog needs, not what you can afford.
With Lemonade, you can build a plan around your Boerboel specifically. Start with accident and illness coverage as your base, then add on what makes sense for your dog, things like physical therapy, dental illness, or behavioral treatment, and skip what doesn’t. Coverage applies to conditions that aren’t pre-existing (AKA, a condition that occurs after your policy is active and your waiting periods have passed), and you’ll know exactly what’s included before you commit. No fine print ambushes, no surprises at claim time.
And when you do need to file? You can do it in the app in minutes. No paperwork, no hold music, no waiting around.
Boerboels are worth protecting with proper coverage. Here’s how to do it right.
How much does pet insurance cost?
The cost of your premium is personal. It depends on your Boerboels age, your location, and what you add to your plan. That said, here’s a realistic look at what other Boerboel owners pay with Lemonade:
| Age | Average monthly premium |
|---|---|
| 1 year old | $80-$85 |
| 2 years old | $80-$85 |
| 3 years old | $115-$120 |
| 4 years old | $90-$95 |
| 5 years old | $135-$140 |
| 6 years old | $170-$175 |
| 7 years old | $215-$220 |
Not sure if Lemonade is the right fit for your Boerboel?
See how we stack up. Compare pet insurance options side by side and find the coverage that fits your Boerboel and your budget.
History of the Boerboel
The Boerboel, whose name means farmer's dog in Afrikaans, was developed by Dutch, German, and Huguenot settlers in South Africa beginning in the 17th century. These settlers needed a large, powerful dog capable of guarding their farms and homesteads against dangerous wildlife including lions, leopards, hyenas, and baboons, while also serving as a general farm dog. The breed descended from large mastiff-type dogs brought from Europe and crossed with indigenous South African dogs and possibly Bulldog-type dogs over several generations. The Boerboel is unique among guardian breeds for its combination of extreme power, exceptional agility for its size, and strong working drive. The breed nearly went extinct in the 1980s but was revived by the South African Boerboel Breeders Society. The AKC recognized the Boerboel in 2015. The breed is banned or restricted in several countries due to its power and guarding instincts.
Caring for a Boerboel
Training
Training a Boerboel takes patience, but it’s worth the effort. They are dominant, confident, and highly self-assured, which means owners need to establish clear, calm authority from the start and maintain firm, consistent leadership. Firm, consistent training with early socialization and an experienced, assertive handler tends to work best, and getting started early makes a real difference.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or leveling up, these are worth the read.
Grooming
Boerboels have a short, dense coat that requires minimal grooming. Weekly brushing with a rubber curry comb or soft bristle brush is all the coat needs, and the occasional bath keeps them looking their best. Regular nail trims and routine baths every 6 to 8 weeks complete this breed's minimal grooming needs.
From nail trims to professional care, here’s everything you need to keep your Boerboel looking (and feeling) their best.
Exercise and mental stimulation
Boerboels have high energy levels and need 60 to 90 minutes of exercise each day to stay happy and healthy. Structured leash walks, fetch, and weight pulling are all great ways to burn through that energy. But physical exercise is only half the picture. Boerboels are moderately intelligent dogs, and mental stimulation is just as important as the miles you put in. Without it, they become restless, dominant, and potentially dangerous without adequate exercise and clear structure. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and scent work are all solid ways to keep their brain engaged between walks.
Here’s how to build an exercise routine your Boerboel will actually love.
Nutrition
Boerboels are large to giant dogs with high energy, so they need a diet to match. Most adults do well on around 1,800 to 2,400 calories a day, spread across two meals. Depending on what you’re feeding them, expect to spend around $75 to $110 a month on food. Not the cheapest line item, but not the most expensive either.
What goes in the bowl is your call, and your vet’s. Kibble, raw, fresh, or a combination: there’s no single right answer. Focus on quality ingredients, the right portions for your dog’s age and activity level, and you’re most of the way there.
Get the full picture on feeding a Boerboel here.
Boerboel costs and adoption
What does it cost to bring home a Boerboel?
Before your Boerboel even sets a paw in your home, there are some one-time costs worth planning for. Here’s what to expect upfront.
| Category | Cost Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Adoption (Reputable breeder) | $2,000-$5,000 | Health testing, vaccinations, early socialization, pedigree |
| Adoption (Rescue/shelter) | $50-$300 | Basic veterinary care, spay/neuter, temperament evaluation |
| Initial veterinary care | $300-$700 | Exam, vaccinations, spay/neuter if needed, microchip |
| Essential supplies | $200-$500 | Crate, bed, leash, collar, food bowls, toys |
| Training classes | $150-$300 | Basic obedience, puppy socialization |
Unexpected costs have a way of showing up in year one more than any other. A starter emergency fund alongside a solid pet insurance plan is the best way to make sure they don’t catch you off guard.
What does it cost to own a Boerboel each year?
Once you’re past year one, ownership costs settle into a more predictable rhythm. Here’s what most Boerboel owners spend annually, though keep in mind these numbers can vary quite a bit depending on where you live, your dog’s individual health needs, and the choices you make along the way.
| Category | Annual cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Food and treats | $1,000-$1,800 | Based on the recommended portion for your Boerboel |
| Routine Veterinary Care | $500-$1,000 | Wellness exams, vaccinations, dental care |
| Professional Grooming | $100-$300 | Every Every 8 to 12 weeks, Short smooth coat needs almost no professional grooming. |
| Toys and Supplies | $200-$400 | Replacement items, mental stimulation toys |
What are popular Boerboel names?
We’ve crunched the numbers, and found the top 10 most popular names for Boerboel we see at Lemonade.
More names where those came from. If none of these are clicking, we’ve done the digging for you. Go find the one that sticks.
Boerboel puppies
Puppy veterinary needs
The first year matters a lot. What happens between 8 weeks and 12 months shapes who this dog becomes. Here’s what to focus on.
The first few months are the most important window for your puppy’s health. Core vaccines start at 6–8 weeks and continue through 16 weeks. After that, its annual boosters and routine screening as they grow into adults.
It’s a lot to keep track of. That’s why we made it easy.
Puppy socialization
Boerboel puppies are powerful, loyal, and capable of genuine protection at a level few breeds approach. That a total devotion to family that, combined with their physical capability, makes them extraordinary guardians is part of what makes them highly experienced ownership, vigorous daily exercise, extensive early socialization, confident leadership, and knowledge of local breed restrictions, and it’s also why early socialization matters so much.
Between 8 and 16 weeks, get them in front of as much variety as possible. Different people, animals, sounds, surfaces, and locations. Keep every experience positive. Puppy classes are great for this: supervised, controlled, and full of exactly the kind of novelty a Boerboel brain needs to learn that the world is mostly fine.
Where are Boerboel’s most popular in the United States?
Based on Lemonade’s own policyholder data, Boerboels are most popular in these five states. We’ve also thrown in a few things local pet owners should keep an eye on, so your pup can get out there and explore safely.
1. Texas
Texas heat is intense and sets in early. Hot pavement can burn paws from late spring through early fall, and heatstroke risk is high during midday walks in cities like Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio. Rattlesnakes, scorpions, and fire ants are also common hazards, particularly in suburban and rural areas.
2. Arizona
The desert heat is the biggest thing to watch year-round. Pavement in Phoenix can reach dangerous temperatures in summer, so early morning or evening walks are best for your dog's paws. Arizona is also home to rattlesnakes, scorpions, and desert toads, all of which are more active in warmer months, so stay alert on trails and in the yard.
3. California
Foxtail grass is one of the sneakiest hazards for California dogs. The barbed seeds can embed in paws, ears, and noses from late spring through early fall, so check your dog after any outdoor time. Wildfire smoke is also a real seasonal concern; when air quality alerts are in effect, it's best to keep walks short and stay indoors as much as possible.
4. New Jersey
New Jersey consistently ranks among the top states for Lyme disease cases, so tick prevention is critical for any dog spending time outside, even in suburban backyards. Proximity to the Jersey Shore also means dogs can encounter jellyfish washed ashore, and saltwater ingestion during beach trips can cause stomach issues.
5. New York
In New York City, street hazards are the main thing to watch. Dropped food, discarded gum containing xylitol, and litter are common ingestion risks on sidewalks and in parks. Upstate and in Long Island, the story shifts to ticks: New York is a Lyme disease hotspot, and black-legged ticks are active from early spring through late fall.
Breed comparison
Already leaning toward a Boerboel? These breeds often get compared, here’s a quick snapshot of how they stack up.
Cane Corso
Both are large, powerful guardian breeds. Cane Corsos are more widely known and established. Boerboels are more agile, more confident, and better suited to active protection work.
Read moreBullmastiff
Both are large, powerful guardian breeds. Bullmastiffs are more laid-back and better for calmer households. Boerboels are more agile, more athletic, and need more experienced owners.
Read more
Mastiff
Both are large, powerful guardian breeds. Mastiffs are heavier and more laid-back. Boerboels are more agile, more confident, and better suited to active protection and working roles.
Read more
English Mastiff
Both are large, imposing guardian breeds. English Mastiffs are heavier and gentler. Boerboels are more agile, more athletic, and better suited to serious protection and guarding work.
Read more
Anatolian Shepherd
Both are large, powerful guardian breeds. Anatolian Shepherds are more independent and better for livestock guarding. Boerboels are more people-oriented and better suited to family life.
Read moreIs a Boerboel right for you?
Boerboels reward the right owner with a protection capability and physical presence that is genuinely unmatched in most settings and a total family devotion that makes the bond feel profound and serious. They just need expert ownership, vigorous daily exercise, early extensive socialization, confident consistent training, and legal awareness in return. If you’re ready for that, you’re ready for a Boerboel. Make sure they’re protected from day one.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of the policies issued, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage may not be available in all states. Please note that statements about coverages, policy management, claims processes, Giveback, and customer support apply to policies underwritten by Lemonade Insurance Company or Metromile Insurance Company, a Lemonade company, sold by Lemonade Insurance Agency, LLC. The statements do not apply to policies underwritten by other carriers.
Insurance claim data is based on Lemonade pet insurance claims that were settled and paid in 2025.
Average insurance premium data is based on Lemonade’s internal data and reflects the average premium over the last 12 complete months, accurate as of June 2026.
Top pet names are sourced from Lemonade’s database of pet names associated with submitted quotes and purchased policies.
Top states for each breed are based on the number of active Lemonade pet insurance policies for that breed in each state as of June 2026.