The Boerboel has a big, well-balanced muscular frame covered in loose skin with a short, dense coat that usually comes in off-white, brown, reddish brown and varying shades of brindle. Its broad, flat, square head has a black muzzle, wide nostrils, widely set eyes and hanging V-shaped ears. The Boerboel has a strong neck, deep chest and a short tail that is set high.

Famous in their native South Africa for being protective guard dogs without any aggressiveness, the Boerboel is also a gentle and affectionate household companion. It likes to stay close to its family, enjoying long games of fetch and togetherness during family gatherings.

In the 17th century an employee for the Dutch East Indian Company named Jan van Riebeeck was sent to South Africa to establish a trading post. He brought a large Mastiff-type dog that eventually mated with molossers and other large dogs that came with the settlers. Over the generations, the offspring that survived this harsh land were tough and durable and helpful, eventually forming the ruggedly handsome Boerboel.