The Boerboel descended from an early Mastiff-type that mated with dogs of South Africa. “Boerboel” is derived from “boer,” the Afrikkaans/Dutch word for “farmer” These dogs were used as working dogs on the farm and a first line of defense against predators, even fighting off lions. Boerboels also worked as tracking dogs that also held down wounded game until the hunter arrived. Full-grown male Boerboels can reach 154 to 200 pounds!
