Big Dogs - Boerboel

ssbogger · 03-19-2008, 11:24 AM

I've wanted a dog since I've been out of college but won't get one until I get a house with a yard. That being said I plan on getting a house in the next 4 months and I am starting to narrow my choices on dogs.

I can't stand little dogs and have always been fascinated by larger ones. By large I'm talking 150lbs+. When I started researching I came up with a few breeds that are that large and still meet my requirements in the appearance department.

I narrowed my search to

http://www.gotpetsonline.com/picture...ican-allaunts/
http://www.gotpetsonline.com/picture...lano-espanols/
http://www.gotpetsonline.com/picture...ogge-mastiffs/
http://www.gotpetsonline.com/picture...ogs/boerboels/

I think I have decided on the Boerboel. It is a large dog that is smart, trainable, and energetic for it's size.

I'm curious if anyone here has or knows anyone who owns one. I would like to know about first hand experiences with this dog instead of reading about 'breed standards' and what a typical Boerboel is like.

This ad is not displayed to registered members.
Register your free account today and become a member on Yotatech!

Texas_Ace · 03-19-2008, 11:37 AM

I know a guy that has both a large Boerboel AND a 100+lb rott. Lets just say that he doesn't need some high tech security system.

But of of them are great if they are told you are ok. Trainable and well behaved. They do take a lot of work and training though, and a large house/yard. so be prepared.

But you should be happy with a Boerboel, just make sure you get one from a good breader.

Justinvd · 03-19-2008, 11:37 AM

Those are massive. Ive always gotten mutts because they tend to have less problem. Big pure breads always have joint and hip problems

Djlarroc · 03-19-2008, 12:32 PM

He's right about the hip & elbow displaysia, but with the large breeds it just comes with the territory. I am one of the biggest dog nerds on YT lol, and I know of a person who owns a Boerboel. He's actually trained it to a very high level & he's very serious about his BBs. I think no other BB has achieved the same titles. This guy is very knowledgeable & will be straight up with you. I'll pm him and see if I can get you his email addy. He's also got some videos on youtube. This is of his GSD pup, but look for the BB vids.

Link.

I have to disagree on large dogs needing a big yard though. Usually big dogs are pretty low energy and do well without big yards. The BB is a cattle/farm breed though, so he might have more energy than the others. Another tip is don't get a dog that's bred to be big. What I mean is stay within the standard written for the breed. Like a Rott for example. A healthy, active and capable Rott will be around 105-120lbs. Most of the Rotts you see breeders selling are 125+ and the bigger they breed them, the prouder they are, but that's actually be detrimental to the breed. Bigger is not always better.

With that said, what's the reason for getting such a big dog?

EDIT: Also look at the Cane Corso, Presa Canario & Dogue de Bordeaux. I never seen an American Allaunts, but it looks like a Presa knockoff and new breeds are usually very bad dogs to get.

pattycakes77 · 03-19-2008, 12:45 PM

find a mixed breed of two or more of those breeds! and then find the proper greek god to name him/her after

Texas_Ace · 03-19-2008, 12:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Justinvd

Those are massive. Ive always gotten mutts because they tend to have less problem. Big pure breads always have joint and hip problems

Ditto that here, i have always had pure bread Hyanzs 57 mutts myself.

breknraj · 03-19-2008, 01:18 PM

I've been all over the spectrum of pups, from poodles to saint bernards, with a number of others, as well.

I love the large breeds, and my two saints were a couple of the best dogs, ever (for me). My only real issue with the big breeds is that they are relatively short lived, for the most part.

I get very attached to my dogs, and it tears me up every time I loose one. I know going in that, in all likelyhood, the day will come when I will have to make that final descision for my companion. That one hideously bad day in exchange for oh so many good ones is a trade off that I'm willing to make, but I don't want to do it any more than I have to.

Because of that, and my living space, my last couple of pups have been lahsa apsos. I had my first one for almost 16 years, much longer than the 11 and 9 I had my saints for.

No matter your descision, treat them well, and appreciate the love and companionship that they bring to your world - you'll ALWAYS be repaid thousands of times over!

ssbogger · 03-19-2008, 02:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Djlarroc

He's right about the hip & elbow displaysia, but with the large breeds it just comes with the territory. I am one of the biggest dog nerds on YT lol, and I know of a person who owns a Boerboel. He's actually trained it to a very high level & he's very serious about his BBs. I think no other BB has achieved the same titles. This guy is very knowledgeable & will be straight up with you. I'll pm him and see if I can get you his email addy. He's also got some videos on youtube. This is of his GSD pup, but look for the BB vids.

Link.

I have to disagree on large dogs needing a big yard though. Usually big dogs are pretty low energy and do well without big yards. The BB is a cattle/farm breed though, so he might have more energy than the others. Another tip is don't get a dog that's bred to be big. What I mean is stay within the standard written for the breed. Like a Rott for example. A healthy, active and capable Rott will be around 105-120lbs. Most of the Rotts you see breeders selling are 125+ and the bigger they breed them, the prouder they are, but that's actually be detrimental to the breed. Bigger is not always better.

With that said, what's the reason for getting such a big dog?

EDIT: Also look at the Cane Corso, Presa Canario & Dogue de Bordeaux. I never seen an American Allaunts, but it looks like a Presa knockoff and new breeds are usually very bad dogs to get.

Those were some pretty good videos. That is how I would like my dog to be and I am willing to put in the time to have him/her that way. I have looked at the other dogs but they don't appeal to me as much as the others.

I really have no reason for a big dog other than I have always wanted one. Added bonus is protection for the home but I'm not really worried about that either.

Brenjen · 03-19-2008, 02:49 PM

I have a 50/50 mix Australian Shepard & Border Collie. She's the most intelligent animal it's ever been my pleasure to own or work with. She's got cancer & has had it since she was about five or six (she's around 10 or 11 now) so she's proof even medium sized mutts can die off early on you. Granted she's not gone yet but I can see it affecting her. It is true though that mutts are typically healthier & live longer on average & the pure breeds are bad about bone & joint trouble in particular.

Now about that Boerboel.....I have never heard of that breed in all my life. It's a good looking dog! Thanks for bringing it up; when my bitch dies I'll have to look into those.

Yellowtruck · 03-19-2008, 03:13 PM

Whatever your choice may be,remember, dogs are only as good as their owner!! Train train train and socialize! It doesn't matter what breed you choose just as long as you train them well. And, the training never ends and the dogs never stop learning.
I myself am a large breed owner. Their my preferance too. I have an Alaskan Malamute and a Great Dane. Two of the best dogs I have ever had, by far! Both are extremely intelligent and very loyal. Great Danes are excellent large breed dogs that do no require large yards. They love to run fast and then sleep all day. As you have already heard, there is always the chance of hip/back prob's with large breeds. DEFINITELY choose your breeder wisely! Spend the extra $$ on a well breed dog with a good blood line.
Just thought I would throw in my two cents. Best of luck with your decision.

Paul H. · 03-19-2008, 03:17 PM

Just looked at a Breeder site for those dogs and man are they expensive. $1500 to $3000. I have never spent more than $80 for my mixed breeds.

Djlarroc · 03-19-2008, 03:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ssbogger

...I really have no reason for a big dog other than I have always wanted one. Added bonus is protection for the home but I'm not really worried about that either.

That is a good answer! A good breeder will ask you the same questions.

I'm a member on a few working dog & police dog forums and I'm in a Schutzhund club. Most people will say they want a big, mean looking dog for protection or because someone broke into their house. You know what everyone will tell you? Get a gun. Get an alarm. Get insurance. A dog can be a theft deterrent but if someone wants to harm you/steal from you, a dog won't make a difference. If you want a big dog just because, that's a good answer.

True training has LOTS to do with it, but genetics plays 50% or more of what you'll end up with. Terriers like to hunt small animals, Bulldogs can be dog aggressive, Herding dogs like to knip at heels. No matter what kind of training you do, some stuff just can't be overcome, but the important thing is to be aware.

dlbrunner · 03-19-2008, 03:58 PM

http://www.courageouscaucasians.com/...cteristics.htm

I want one of these

Paul H. · 03-19-2008, 04:48 PM

Beautiful dogs Duncan, how much do they typically cost?

4Mogger · 03-19-2008, 07:12 PM

I just got my kids a Rhodesian Ridgeback (African Lion-hound) for Christmas. He is 5 months old and already pushing 70 pounds. I really like his mellow personality and he can run with them around the ranch all day and still have energy. He is extremely protective and is virtually inseparable from my kids. He is on duty 24/7 even though he is just a pup. He seems to know his job.
I did a lot of research looking for a good dog to defend against bear and mountain lions that are numerous around here.

Texas_Ace · 03-19-2008, 07:24 PM

I know a family down the street that has one of those actually ^^. It is within a few days as old as my dog but 3x as big. It is huge but gentel and well mannerd. You know not to mess with his family though.

olharleyman · 03-20-2008, 02:13 AM

Three words
Caucasian mountain dog
Google them they are the sh@t
I have been wanting one for years and think I may be ready to get one very very soon better then rots bigger then great danes and meaner then a pit bull from Michael Vick's house to strangers yet as lovable as a green eyed brunette around there humans especially kids

ssbogger · 03-20-2008, 04:52 AM

Thanks for the replies y'all.

I hope the breeder will do an interview and I probably won't buy a dog from one that doesn't.

I don't mind spending money on a dog. They say these dogs commonly live to be 10years. A 2k price over 10 years isn't really that much. Add all the vet bills and food for such a big dog the numbers get up there but I think it's worth it to have the dog you have always wanted looks wise. To get the dog that acts like the dog you have always wanted it totally up to the way you treat/train it.

Those Caucasian Mountain dogs are really cool but I want something short haired.

doink · 03-20-2008, 06:55 AM

Those are all awesome dogs. As mentioned above, check out cane corsos...those dogs are down right beastly.

dlbrunner · 03-20-2008, 02:03 PM

Paul: Not sure. They are Caucasian mountain dogs, prolly pretty pricey.

I saw them while I was checking out some siberian husky kennels.

Apparantly a kennel in montana was having trouble with mountain lions killing huskies that were staked out. Well they bought 2 of the Caucasians, and no more mountain lion problem.

Paul H. · 03-20-2008, 02:45 PM

I finally found a kennel in Ohio that breeds them and they run from $1500 to $3000 depending on color.

WSUWESTON · 03-20-2008, 05:19 PM

I like the big dogs also, but Big Dog = Big Crap
A friend of mine has a mastif, it has had several hip surgerys $$$$

Djlarroc · 03-20-2008, 08:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Paul H.

I finally found a kennel in Ohio that breeds them and they run from $1500 to $3000 depending on color.

This reminds me! Don't EVER buy from a breeder who adjusts prices based on color, size, sex, or "order of deposit received". That is not a good breeder.

They should ask you what you want the dog for, about your living conditions, knowledge of the breed & handler/owner experience. Based on that info, in a litter of say 6-10 pups, your choices will be narrowed down to 1-2 pups. They may not be the color or sex you want, but temperament wise, they will be EXACTLY what you want.

Also, a good breeder will do something with their dogs. Conformation, search & rescue, competition obedience or some kind of sport. If you get a working dog, make sure the breeder actually "works" their dogs in something. Not all breeds can still work in their original purpose, but there's lot's of other stuff they can participate in.

turboale · 03-20-2008, 11:41 PM

I grew up with shepherds and I will definitely be getting one when I'm looking at getting a house. They are extremely smart, loyal and love to be trained. My buddy used to play golf with his and Sage would place the ball back on the tee not to mention open doors etc. I saved one from the local shelter but sadly I only had her for about a year until she was stolen out of the back of my friends yard (on my 21st bday). Funny thing was, I named her Nali. Before her I had no idea about dog training and after just one year I was totally hooked. Within a year I had to socialize her (previous owners didn't AT ALL), crate trained her (by command) and she would stay and hold a treat on her nose until I released her. The best part? no drool/slobber! Well, that and she was extremely excited to get in the car to go anywhere... If you get a pup (or at least a young adolescent) I highly recommend click training. Its kind-of annoying at first (especially for others) but it makes things SO much easier for both of you and easily turns training into a game/play.

On the topic of working dogs, I had a friend that had a shepherd puppy and they took it through search and rescue and they had great things to say about that. Their dog almost made a big rescue on the water. Did you know dogs can smell a body up to 300ft under water?? Crazy... If I had gotten Nali as a pup I would have done something like that with her, but she was already 2 when I got her and I was already in college so between the two I didn't get around to it.

4Mogger · 03-21-2008, 07:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by turboale

Very cool pics. Just had to be said. Plus you appear to be a mac guy...so....

03-19-2008, 11:37 AM	#3 (permalink)
Justinvd Registered User Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: B.C Posts: 759	Those are massive. Ive always gotten mutts because they tend to have less problem. Big pure breads always have joint and hip problems __________________ 1988 4runner- 22R-E 1986 P/U 22R-E T urning O ver after Y ears O f T rail A buse

03-19-2008, 12:45 PM	#5 (permalink)
pattycakes77 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: Iowa Posts: 1,101	find a mixed breed of two or more of those breeds! and then find the proper greek god to name him/her after __________________ The PATYWGN: 1998 4Runner Desert Dune Pearl. PATYWGN show-off thread Sport Hood FAQ

03-19-2008, 01:18 PM	#7 (permalink)
breknraj Contributing Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Summit County, Colorado Posts: 898	I've been all over the spectrum of pups, from poodles to saint bernards, with a number of others, as well. I love the large breeds, and my two saints were a couple of the best dogs, ever (for me). My only real issue with the big breeds is that they are relatively short lived, for the most part. I get very attached to my dogs, and it tears me up every time I loose one. I know going in that, in all likelyhood, the day will come when I will have to make that final descision for my companion. That one hideously bad day in exchange for oh so many good ones is a trade off that I'm willing to make, but I don't want to do it any more than I have to. Because of that, and my living space, my last couple of pups have been lahsa apsos. I had my first one for almost 16 years, much longer than the 11 and 9 I had my saints for. No matter your descision, treat them well, and appreciate the love and companionship that they bring to your world - you'll ALWAYS be repaid thousands of times over! __________________ Raj : 1960 Homo Sapien. 192cm, Blonde, Blue. Soon to lose spare tire. Worf : 1990 SR5 Xtracab 4x4 5 speed, Inca Red Metallic. 3.4 converted, with Taco 5 spoke alloys, 275/65R16 BFG AT K/Os. Soon to add rear e-locker.

03-19-2008, 02:49 PM	#9 (permalink)
Brenjen Registered User Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Searcy, Arkansas Posts: 1,192	I have a 50/50 mix Australian Shepard & Border Collie. She's the most intelligent animal it's ever been my pleasure to own or work with. She's got cancer & has had it since she was about five or six (she's around 10 or 11 now) so she's proof even medium sized mutts can die off early on you. Granted she's not gone yet but I can see it affecting her. It is true though that mutts are typically healthier & live longer on average & the pure breeds are bad about bone & joint trouble in particular. Now about that Boerboel.....I have never heard of that breed in all my life. It's a good looking dog! Thanks for bringing it up; when my bitch dies I'll have to look into those. __________________ '95 4Runner 3.0 Automatic bone stock; it's becoming a project slowly but surely, one part at a time "If ye love wealth better than liberty, the tranquility of servitude than the animated contest of freedom, go from us in peace. We ask not your counsels or arms. Crouch down and lick the hands which feed you. May your chains sit lightly upon you, and may posterity forget that you were our countrymen!”

03-19-2008, 03:13 PM	#10 (permalink)
Yellowtruck Registered User Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Silverdale, Washington Posts: 122	Whatever your choice may be,remember, dogs are only as good as their owner!! Train train train and socialize! It doesn't matter what breed you choose just as long as you train them well. And, the training never ends and the dogs never stop learning. I myself am a large breed owner. Their my preferance too. I have an Alaskan Malamute and a Great Dane. Two of the best dogs I have ever had, by far! Both are extremely intelligent and very loyal. Great Danes are excellent large breed dogs that do no require large yards. They love to run fast and then sleep all day. As you have already heard, there is always the chance of hip/back prob's with large breeds. DEFINITELY choose your breeder wisely! Spend the extra $$ on a well breed dog with a good blood line. Just thought I would throw in my two cents. Best of luck with your decision. __________________ 1991 Toy P/U V6 3.0 4WD; 4.88's; Detroit Truetrac's; Bilstein 5100's; O.M.E. stabilizer; Smitties; 33x12.5's on Weld wheels; K&N; Modified EGR; Custom sunroof/paint/diamond plate mudflaps; rebuilt Jasper engine; 6" lift; bug/wind deflectors all around; swinging a pair of truck nuts underneath!

03-19-2008, 03:58 PM	#13 (permalink)
dlbrunner Contributing Member Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: phoenix Posts: 1,141	http://www.courageouscaucasians.com/...cteristics.htm I want one of these __________________ Duncan -------------------------------------------------- Current: 95 4X4 SR5 V6, Yakima tracks/rack installed. Aisin hubs. Sonoran Steel IFS Truss. Cobra CB(finally!) Desired: 66 FJ45 shorty EX's: 89 4X4 V6 Downey'd 72 FJ40 W 350/SM465 powertrax, "Billy"

03-19-2008, 07:12 PM	#15 (permalink)
4Mogger Banned Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Montrose, CO Posts: 637	I just got my kids a Rhodesian Ridgeback (African Lion-hound) for Christmas. He is 5 months old and already pushing 70 pounds. I really like his mellow personality and he can run with them around the ranch all day and still have energy. He is extremely protective and is virtually inseparable from my kids. He is on duty 24/7 even though he is just a pup. He seems to know his job. I did a lot of research looking for a good dog to defend against bear and mountain lions that are numerous around here.

03-20-2008, 02:13 AM	#17 (permalink)
olharleyman Contributing Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: maryland Posts: 3,483	Three words Caucasian mountain dog Google them they are the sh@t I have been wanting one for years and think I may be ready to get one very very soon better then rots bigger then great danes and meaner then a pit bull from Michael Vick's house to strangers yet as lovable as a green eyed brunette around there humans especially kids __________________ 1990 4 runner 5 Speed Pro Comp Stage II 4" Lift 6" coils rear Aussie Locker front 5.29's Front And Rear 35 x 12.5 x 15 MT's Micky Thompson Classic II Wheels Super Charged 3.4 on the way 1993 SAS 4runner 22re 5 speed 4" front 5"rear 5.29's 35 x 12.5 BFG KM'S Dick cepek DC 1's 88 stock 4runner 3.0 auto for now 1955 Harley Davidson Springer Stock 1955 Hardtail Frame 4 Speed Kick Start Only 1998 Harley Custom Dresser 107 rwhp 139 ft.lbs.trq.

03-20-2008, 04:52 AM	#18 (permalink)
ssbogger Registered User Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: James Island/ChuckTown, SC Posts: 699	Thanks for the replies y'all. I hope the breeder will do an interview and I probably won't buy a dog from one that doesn't. I don't mind spending money on a dog. They say these dogs commonly live to be 10years. A 2k price over 10 years isn't really that much. Add all the vet bills and food for such a big dog the numbers get up there but I think it's worth it to have the dog you have always wanted looks wise. To get the dog that acts like the dog you have always wanted it totally up to the way you treat/train it. Those Caucasian Mountain dogs are really cool but I want something short haired. __________________ 2004 GMC Sierra Denali Quadrasteer Small system '99 4runner SOLD Lifted, SC'd, etc... 2002 Tacoma SOLD Lifted, System, etc...

03-20-2008, 06:55 AM	#19 (permalink)
doink Contributing Member Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Atl. Georgia Posts: 3,079	Those are all awesome dogs. As mentioned above, check out cane corsos...those dogs are down right beastly. __________________ -m. buy my bands record on iTunes LISTEN TO MY BAND PLEASE

03-20-2008, 02:03 PM	#20 (permalink)
dlbrunner Contributing Member Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: phoenix Posts: 1,141	Paul: Not sure. They are Caucasian mountain dogs, prolly pretty pricey. I saw them while I was checking out some siberian husky kennels. Apparantly a kennel in montana was having trouble with mountain lions killing huskies that were staked out. Well they bought 2 of the Caucasians, and no more mountain lion problem. __________________ Duncan -------------------------------------------------- Current: 95 4X4 SR5 V6, Yakima tracks/rack installed. Aisin hubs. Sonoran Steel IFS Truss. Cobra CB(finally!) Desired: 66 FJ45 shorty EX's: 89 4X4 V6 Downey'd 72 FJ40 W 350/SM465 powertrax, "Billy"

03-20-2008, 05:19 PM	#22 (permalink)
WSUWESTON Registered User Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Vancouver, Wa Posts: 439	I like the big dogs also, but Big Dog = Big Crap A friend of mine has a mastif, it has had several hip surgerys $$$$ __________________ 82 Shortbed with 22r, weber 32/36, civic seats, bedlined interior, 31” LTB’s

03-20-2008, 11:41 PM	#24 (permalink)
turboale Contributing Member Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Brooklyn, NY Posts: 4,870	I grew up with shepherds and I will definitely be getting one when I'm looking at getting a house. They are extremely smart, loyal and love to be trained. My buddy used to play golf with his and Sage would place the ball back on the tee not to mention open doors etc. I saved one from the local shelter but sadly I only had her for about a year until she was stolen out of the back of my friends yard (on my 21st bday). Funny thing was, I named her Nali. Before her I had no idea about dog training and after just one year I was totally hooked. Within a year I had to socialize her (previous owners didn't AT ALL), crate trained her (by command) and she would stay and hold a treat on her nose until I released her. The best part? no drool/slobber! Well, that and she was extremely excited to get in the car to go anywhere... If you get a pup (or at least a young adolescent) I highly recommend click training. Its kind-of annoying at first (especially for others) but it makes things SO much easier for both of you and easily turns training into a game/play. On the topic of working dogs, I had a friend that had a shepherd puppy and they took it through search and rescue and they had great things to say about that. Their dog almost made a big rescue on the water. Did you know dogs can smell a body up to 300ft under water?? Crazy... If I had gotten Nali as a pup I would have done something like that with her, but she was already 2 when I got her and I was already in college so between the two I didn't get around to it. __________________ --Austin 06 M45 Sport - Beauty 96 4Runner - The Beast Last edited by turboale; 03-20-2008 at 11:58 PM.

Thread Tools	Search this Thread
Show Printable Version Email this Page	Search this Thread: Advanced Search

Similar Threads
Thread	Thread Starter	Forum	Replies	Last Post
Virginia Tech Memorial Trail Ride at Big Dogs Offroad	MtnToys	Off Road Trip Planning, Expeditions, Trips, & Events	3	04-08-2009 11:36 AM
big rig in big trouble!!! PICS!	yotasavg	Off Topic Talk	17	07-09-2007 01:15 PM
Big Dogs~Grand Slam East, Sept. 15-17	Ace Laserna	Off Road Trip Planning, Expeditions, Trips, & Events	0	08-29-2006 06:17 AM
bodylift+big rims+big tires= max size??	dexter	95.5-2004 Tacomas & 96-2002 4Runners	20	12-07-2005 05:54 PM
Big Dogs Offroad - Winchester, Virginia	Roadrunner	Virginia	0	07-29-2003 07:06 AM