How The Two Breeds Differ?

Are you thinking of adopting a Boerboel or a Rottweiler but not sure which breed will be the right choice? Both Rottweilers and Boerboels are Mastiff-type large and muscular dogs, but they are not very similar.

Boerboels hail from South Africa and were originally bred to be a farmer’s dog, whereas Rottweilers are believed to have evolved from the Roman cattle dogs when the Roman Empire made a camp in Rottweiler, Germany. They were used as cattle and hunting dogs.

Both are tough canines—but who is the toughest? Who makes a better guard dog? And who is a better family pet? This article will help you understand the similarities and differences between Boerboels and Rottweilers.

Have a look at some characteristics of the Boerboel vs Rottweiler.

Boerboel vs. Rottweiler

Size and Weight Differences

Both Boerboels and Rottweilers are large dogs having almost similar height. According to the American Kennel Club, Boerboels stand 22 to 27 inches tall and weigh around 150 to 200 pounds. Rottweilers also stand 22-27 inches tall at the shoulder, but they weigh around 80 to 135 pounds.

Rottweilers appear a bit intimidating due to their large size, whereas Boerboels can be twice as heavy as a Rottweiler. So, if you have never had an experience of coming across a Boerboel, double a Rottie. Due to their size, Boerboels are well-suited for large homes with plenty of space to roam.

Temperament and Personality Traits

Rottweiler

Rottweilers are more intense dogs who are quite professional at work, but quite silly at home. Rotties are loyal and good-natured dogs. They are friendly with children and enjoy their company. These are the friendly pups, but they take time to get along with new people.

Males are watchful and quiet by nature, whereas females are affectionate and somewhat more obedient. They thrive on companionship and love walking around with you. Rottweilers are not well-suited for apartment living. They cannot withstand extremely cold climates.

Rottweilers are highly intelligent dogs who can be trained easily, provided that the training starts at a young age. Reward-based training works wonders for Rotties.

Boerboel

Boerboels make wonderful family pets—they are calm, loyal, and loving towards their owners. They are territorial dogs who may turn suspicious towards strangers. Proper training and socialization starting at a young age can turn them into well-behaved dogs.

Due to their aggressive nature, they are not recommended for first-time dog owners. They often have a bad reputation due to being aggressive, but a properly raised Boerboel is a true gentle giant. These tough and fearless canines are protective of their owners and make excellent watchdogs.

If trained properly, they prove to be devoted companions and get along well with children. Like Rottweilers, they are also wonderful guard dogs. Boerboels have a bold and fearless personality, yet are obedient to their owners. They know how to behave indoors and outdoors.

A Boerboel’s temperament is surprising for such a big dog.

Bite Strength and Jaw Features

Rottweiler

Rottweilers are known for their strong and powerful jaws, having a bite force ranging from 200 to 400 psi. They have an ordinary bite force compared to other breeds, but it is still quite powerful. A Rottie’s bite can cause bite wounds.

However, you do not need to be scared of a Rottweiler if your dog is properly trained. It is essential to teach your dog not to bite from an early age. Anyhow, Rotties have a fearsome presence.

Boerboel

Boerboels have a significant jaw strength. They have a very strong bite force of around 850 psi. This is very close to that of a grizzly bear, which is 980 psi. They are so agile and strong that there are stories of Boerboels overcoming lions.

Boerboels have a low chance of biting somebody, but their bite should be respected. It is important to take necessary precautions while interacting with these dogs. Just like Rottweilers, Boerboels should also be trained not to bite from an early age.

Both Rottweilers and Boerboels have an average tendency to playbite, chew, nip, or herd people.

Lifespan and Common Health Issues

The way you exercise, feed, and attend your dog (be it a Rottie or a Boerboel) determines the health status. Boerboels are more vulnerable to developing health problems than other dog breeds.

On the other hand, Rottweiler is a healthy breed, but still prone to some health problems. It is important to get your dog checked by the vet regularly.

Rottweiler

According to PetMD, Rottweilers have a lifespan of 9 to 10 years. They can suffer from health problems like elbow and hip dysplasia. Both conditions, if untreated, can lead to arthritis. Rotties are also prone to obesity; therefore, you have to take care of their exercise and dietary needs.

Other health concerns include osteosarcoma, cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture, gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV), entropion, and subaortic stenosis.

Boerboel

Boerboels have a lifespan of 9 to 11 years. They may suffer from elbow and hip dysplasia, eye infections, dilated cardiomyopathy, and GDV.

Energy Levels and Daily Activity Needs

Rottweiler

Rottweilers have high energy levels as compared to other dog breeds. This breed might not be a good fit for owners who prefer lounging all day. However, sometimes your Rottie will resist a walk and try to convince you that napping is a better option.

They require one hour of daily exercise for physical and mental stimulation. Make sure to provide your Rottweiler enough exercise through training sessions, playtime, and toys.

Boerboel

While both breeds are not highly energetic, Boerboels have higher energy levels than Rottweilers. They have average energy levels and can be a good fit for you if you have a semi-active lifestyle. They need quite a lot of exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Just like Rotties, they also require an hour of daily exercise. The exercise needs to be relatively intense, including jogging instead of walking or constantly playing games of fetch.

Nutrition and Weight Control

Rottweiler

Rottweilers have a high tendency for obesity. Therefore, you need to find a balance between your Rottie’s diet and exercise. Increase the frequency of daily walks and play more often to ensure you have a healthy dog. They need 4 to 10 cups of high-quality dog food every day, divided into two meals.

Boerboel

Boerboels have an average risk of becoming obese as compared to Rottweilers. Regular exercise and a balance between food and physical activity can help prevent obesity.

Boerboels need 8 to 10 cups of high-quality dog food, divided into two meals. The diet should be formulated as per large to giant breed requirements.

Grooming Needs and Allergy Concerns

Both Boerboels and Rottweilers have short double coats that require low maintenance. However, you can easily tell both breeds apart based on their coat colors.

Rottweiler

A Rottie flaunts a black coat with distinctive tan markings. A black mask around the eyes is the characteristic feature of this breed. They need minimal coat care. Other grooming needs include seasonal flea treatment and cleaning eyes and ears to prevent infections.

Professional grooming is not needed. Rottweilers drool a lot. They are susceptible to allergies. Allergies can cause discomfort and distress for both the dog and the owner. Rotties shed moderately and do not do well with allergy sufferers.

Boerboel

Boerboels enjoy a light brown, red, or brindle coat. They have darker eyes and often, but not always, a black mask. Just like Rotties, they also require minimal coat care and drool a lot. They also shed moderately and are not well suited for allergy-prone individuals.

Conclusion

Both Rottweilers and Boerboels make excellent guard dogs and family pets. However, a Rottie is more sensitive, whereas a Boerboel is more independent. Both have similar exercise needs, but Rotties are more intense. The choice between the two breeds depends on your personal preferences!