Boerboels are huge, clever canines that were traditionally used to protect their houses and families from predators in South Africa. According to legend, the Boerboels even slaughtered lions to protect their loved ones. While this is most likely an exaggeration, they are powerful and fast enough to kill leopards, demonstrating their intellect and power.
The word “Boer” means “farmer” in Dutch and embodies the adaptability of the Boerboel breed, which has served as defenders, farmhands, therapy dogs, and more1. They are known nowadays for being eager to learn, authoritative, and loyal, making them a valued addition to many homes.
If you are the fortunate owner of one of these brilliant, sensitive dogs, you may be wondering how large Boerboels get and when Boerboels stop growing. To know more about Boerboel Growth Chart, read the entire article!
When Do Boerboel Stop Growing?
Boerboels are born as beautiful, small puppies in litters of 7 to 10. Even though they begin small, they rapidly expand within a few months. This makes sense because they have a lot of ground to cover as a large breed dog.
They achieve their full height between the ages of 18 and 24 months but continue to grow in mass for another two years.
It is preferable to keep Boerboels slender because their joints may suffer from issues if they are overweight and their joints are not fully formed. Pay close attention to the meals you give them.
Boerboel Growth Pictures
What is the Standard Boerboel Size
The male Boerboel height should be between 24 and 27 inches tall, according to the Official AKC Breed Standards2. Female Boerboels are shorter and should be between 22 and 25 inches tall. For both genders, a healthy Boerboel weight range is 150 to 200 pounds.
Boerboel Weight Chart
Here is the weight chart of a Boerboel:
Age | Male Weight | Female Weight |
1 Month | 15 lbs | 13 lbs |
2 Months | 29 lbs | 24 lbs |
2.5 Months | 36 lbs | 32 lbs |
3 Months | 45 lbs | 39 lbs |
4 Months | 60 lbs | 50 lbs |
5 Months | 80 lbs | 65 lbs |
6 months | 100 lbs | 80 lbs |
7 months | 125 lbs | 90 lbs |
8 months | 140 lbs | 100 lbs |
9 months | 155 lbs | 110 lbs |
10 months | 165 lbs | 112 lbs |
11 months | 170 lbs | 115 lbs |
12 months | 175 lbs | 120 lbs |
13 months | 180 lbs | 122 lbs |
14 months | 185 lbs | 125 lbs |
Boerboel Growth Chart – What To Expect
Boerboel Weight Chart by Age
Boerboel Weight 1-2 weeks
You may expect your Boerboel puppy to be primarily dependent on his mother for warmth and sustenance during this critical period.
He will be extremely small, but he will not remain that way for long because he will be rapidly growing. His mother's milk is extremely crucial. This is most likely their most important growth spike. They will also gain a great deal of knowledge.
Your Boerboel puppy will go through a challenging transition to solid foods. You must ensure that you are making things as simple as possible for your growing dog.
Boerboel Weight 3-12 weeks
Because sustenance is crucial as they grow, this procedure of feeding them solid food for the first time will have an effect on their development.
Make certain that the food is nutritional but more essential, that it has the proper texture.
Their tiny and fragile jaws will be unable to tolerate hard food for the time being. The meal should be softened and the consistency of a thick soup.
Boerboel Weight 4-6months
A six-month-old Boerboel weighs approximately 80-100 pounds. However, depending on their gender and individual growth pace, your puppy may weigh somewhat more or less than this.
Pro Tip: Microchipping your Boerboel can provide you a piece of mind that will be easily identified if they become separated from you. Learn more about the microchipping method, cost, and microchip legislation to safeguard you and your dog in the event that they become separated from you.
Boerboel Weight 7-9 months
Expect your Boerboel puppy to grow very large at this point, while female puppies are significantly smaller.
At this point, your Boerboel will be used to solid food, so feed him a diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber. This will go a long way toward ensuring that he is properly fed.
Boerboel Weight 10-12 months
When your Boerboel reaches adulthood, he will be roughly 24 months old and will have lost his juvenile appearance.
He must also be adequately fed, as nutrition is essential throughout your dog's life. Ensure that he does not become overweight by overfeeding him and that he gets plenty of exercises.
Boerboel Adult Weight
At the end of this period, several Boerboels will reach their full height. However, his development will not be complete because he will build muscle and develop in other ways.
If he is appropriately socialized, his personality will also grow. Remember that he is a large breed dog, and he will need to grow a lot more.
Boerboel Height Chart
A prudent Boerboel owner would keep track of their dog's development by ensuring that he reaches crucial developmental stages.
Weighing and measuring your dog is one method. To measure your Boerboel dog, start at the floor and work your way up to the withers, which are the highest points of his shoulders.
Simply stand your Boerboel dog up straight and use a measuring tape to measure from the ground to the withers.
Males are about 25 to 28 inches tall, while females are slightly shorter at 23 to 25.5 inches.
What Is A Boerboel’s Neck Size?
To determine the neck size of your dog, use a soft and flexible tape measure to determine the neck size of your dog where her collar naturally falls. Then, put two fingers between your dog's neck and the tape measure to ensure that the dog collar fits snugly but comfortably. Basenji's average neck circumference is between 14 and 16 inches.
How Big Do Boerboels Get?
The male Boerboel height should be between 24 and 27 inches tall, according to the Official AKC Breed Standards2. Female Boerboels are shorter and should be between 22 and 25 inches tall. For both genders, a healthy Boerboel weight range is 150 to 200 pounds.
Boerboels as adults should be nimble yet powerful, with a muscular frame.
Factors That Affect Boerboel Puppy Growth
Genetics
Genetics and gender have an impact on growth since they can have an impact on your dog's physical body and development as they grow.
Females are slightly smaller than males, so this is one-factor influencing growth. And the two sexes would have separate growth hormones.
The biological parents of your dog are crucial in determining his DNA. Because many traits are inherited and passed down to children. Discuss your dog's parents with your breeder.
Diet & Nutrition
When it comes to a Boerboel diet, keep in mind that this is a huge to giant breed that requires a lot of protein-rich foods.
Protein is especially crucial during their development because they will be growing muscle mass.
For proper digestion, they also require healthy fats and fiber. Take into account their nutritional needs as they grow and develop.
Physical Activity & Health
Because Boerboel dogs are powerful and athletic, they require a lot of activity, especially after they reach adulthood.
But you shouldn't begin then. As they run around and grow strong bones and muscles, the puppies are naturally playful.
Make sure kids get the recommended amount of activity every day and start slowly. Remember that kids may have joint difficulties, so keep an eye out for any trouble during play and exercise.
Common Questions about Boerboel
At What Age Is A Boerboel Full Grown?
Due to the size of the Boerboel, these dogs mature significantly slower than most breeds. On average, you should expect your Boerboel puppy to develop for at least a year and a half before reaching full size, but many will take up to two years.
How Long Are Boerboels Pregnant?
A dog's pregnancy usually lasts 63 days (about nine weeks). The length of a dog's pregnancy can range from 57 to 65 days. Though estrus (heat cycles) differ from breed to breed, the normal gestation duration for all dogs, regardless of breed, falls within the same range.
How Many Puppies Do Boerboels Have?
The litter size of a Boerboel is 7 to 10 puppies. In other situations, however, it might be quite large, like in the example of Bailee, a South African Boerboel who gave birth to 19 puppies in a single litter.
What Is The Life Expectancy Of Boerboels?
A Boerboel's average lifespan is 10 to 12 years, which is significantly longer than that of other dog breeds of comparable size. Nonetheless, because they are purebreds, these dogs are at a higher risk of having a hereditary ailment.
Boerboels, for example, are known to be predisposed to wobbler syndrome, spinal issues, dilated cardiomyopathy, hip dysplasia, and luxating patellas. Wobbler syndrome is more common in huge and enormous dogs, such as the Boerboel. Wobble syndrome is characterized by an unsteady gait, neck pain, and a reluctance to walk.
While the specific etiology of the condition is unknown, it is known that wobbler syndrome can cause a great deal of discomfort in an affected dog due to the spinal cord compression that occurs when the sickness arises. Fortunately, research has shown that with medical intervention, 50% of dogs with wobbler syndrome improve, and another 30% stabilize, allowing many dogs to enjoy long and happy lives after being diagnosed with wobbler syndrome3.
How Much Does It Cost To Own A Boerboel?
As previously stated, the price of a Boerboel dog is between $1,500 and $2,000. The Boerboel pricing range is not too bad for a dog of this size. Of course, the price of a purebred Boerboel will be higher than that of a mixed breed.
How To Help Your Boerboel Lose Weight If He Is Overweight
As with humans, exercise is critical for your overweight dog's health. Increased movement helps your dog burn off excess energy (and calories consumed). Avoid panic! Exercising your pet does not have to include marathons or lengthy hikes. Regular walks and the opportunity to run and play safely off-leash.
Even creating a stimulating indoor environment that encourages your dog to exercise on a regular basis can help. Bear in mind that different breeds require varying amounts of exercise, so visit your veterinarian, breeder, or your dog's breed standard for recommendations on recommended activity levels.
Distinguish Begging from Hunger
Begging is not necessarily motivated by a desire for more food; it is also used to gain attention. (And, by rewarding the behavior, you reinforce and encourage it to continue.) If your dog begs, do not automatically assume he is hungry. Trust your instincts and keep track of the date and time of your last meal.
If your dog is prone to begging and you are prone to succumb to those puppy dog eyes, choose a high-protein meal with a fiber blend to help control your dog's hunger and voluntary food consumption. This manner, you may feed your dog with the assurance that he will feel fuller and content for a longer period of time.
Restriction on treats and table scraps
Even when our dogs are not begging, many of us provide an excessive amount of treats and table scraps. Dogs are not required to share our food! Consider treats and scraps for your pet in the same way that you would candy for children to help you keep them in check. If you're going to utilize snacks for training, choose low-calorie, low-fat ones and keep the portions small.
As an alternative, keep in mind that clickers are excellent for reinforcement… and they have no calories! After all, a few extra pounds can make a significant impact in the lives of dogs, which are significantly smaller than humans. (Even the colossal breeds!) Therefore, focus on a balanced diet and resist the temptation to “reward” them with extra.
Customize Your Dog's Diet
Not all weight-loss foods are created equal, which is why it's critical to match your dog's nutrition plan to their unique needs. Choose a brand that caters to your dog's unique needs, whether they be weight control, dietary sensitivities, or illnesses.
Conclusion on Boerboel Growth Chart
Owners of Boerboel dogs adore spending time with their cherished companion. These are special times for these pets as well. He is extremely brilliant and incredibly loyal. They will thrive if you include them in your household.
They exist to be loved and appreciated by humans. Because they are huge dogs, they have the ability to inflict significant damage to your property.
So, in order for you and your Boerboel dog to be happy, you must invest in the best training and teach healthy behaviors.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long does it take for a Boerboel to mature?
When do Boerboels reach the end of their growth cycle? Due to the size of the Boerboel, these dogs mature significantly slower than most breeds. On average, you should expect your Boerboel puppy to develop for at least a year and a half before reaching full size, but many will take up to two years.
How large is my Boerboel going to be?
Boerboels are huge dogs, with males standing 24 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder and females standing 22 to 25 inches tall. Boerboels typically weigh between 110 and 200 pounds, though they can be heavier or lighter in some cases.
When does a Boerboel reach maturity?
Litter sizes are frequently quite huge due to their mother's large stature (anywhere from 7 to 10 puppies). You can expect your dog to reach full maturity between the ages of 18 and 24 months.