Boerboel vs Bullmastiff vs Rottweiler: Which Breed Suits You Best?

Boerboel vs Bullmastiff vs Rottweiler: Which Breed Suits You Best?

Are you ready to dive into the world of powerful, loyal, and absolutely stunning dog breeds? Look no further than the Boerboel, Bullmastiff, and Rottweiler – three breeds that are sure to steal your heart and keep you on your toes!

First up, we have the Boerboel, also known as the South African Mastiff. This breed is like the superhero of the dog world, with strength and protective instincts that would make even the most daring villains think twice. If you're an experienced dog owner who's ready to take on a confident and dominant companion, the Boerboel might just be your perfect match. But be warned – these active pups need plenty of daily exercise and a firm hand in training.

Next, we have the Bullmastiff, a gentle giant that hails from the rolling hills of England. These loyal and devoted dogs were originally bred to deter poachers on large estates, but nowadays, they're more likely to steal your heart than your pheasants. If you're looking for a powerful yet less active companion that's great with families, the Bullmastiff could be your ideal match. Just make sure you have plenty of space and time for training – these big softies need a confident owner who can handle their size and strength.

Last but certainly not least, we have the Rottweiler – a breed that's as versatile as it is impressive. These intelligent and trainable dogs have served in roles ranging from guard dogs to police dogs to loyal family companions. If you're looking for an active and protective companion that's great with kids and always ready for an adventure, the Rottweiler might just be the perfect fit. But like the Boerboel and Bullmastiff, these strong-willed pups need a firm and experienced handler to keep them in line.

So, which of these three incredible breeds is the right fit for you? It all comes down to your experience with dogs, your living situation, and the time you can dedicate to training and exercise. If you're ready for a dominant and active companion that requires plenty of space and an experienced owner, the Boerboel might just be your dream dog. If you prefer a powerful yet less active companion that's great with families, the Bullmastiff could be the perfect fit. And if you're looking for a versatile and trainable companion who's always ready to protect and serve, the Rottweiler might just steal your heart.

No matter which breed you choose, one thing is for sure – you're in for a wild and wonderful ride with these incredible dogs by your side. So, buckle up, grab some treats, and get ready to fall in love with the Boerboel, Bullmastiff, and Rottweiler – three breeds that are sure to make your life an adventure!

Boerboel vs Bullmastiff vs Rottweiler Overview

Physical Characteristics

Boerboel

The Boerboel originates from South Africa, and is known for its strong and muscular build. Males can reach a height of 24 to 28 inches at the shoulder, whereas females are shorter, measuring between 22 to 25 inches. Boerboels can weigh quite a lot, with males averaging between 150 to 200 pounds, and females weighing between 110 to 160 pounds. They have a short, dense, and smooth coat and a broad head with a distinct black mask. Despite their size, Boerboels are quite agile, and they require exercise to maintain their physical health.

Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff orignated from England, and although it is slightly smaller than other large breeds, it is still a powerful dog. Male Bullmastiffs can stand about 25 to 27 inches tall and weigh between 110 to 130 pounds. Females, on the other hand, measure 24 to 26 inches in height and weigh 100 to 120 pounds. They have a short and dense coat that can come in fawn, reddish-brown, or brindle. Bullmastiffs are known for their fearless confidence and docile nature at home. They have a solid build with a deep chest and strong legs, which contribute to their ability to be great guardians.

Rottweiler

The Rottweiler originally from Germany, has a long history of herding and guarding. Male Rottweilers can be between 24 and 27 inches tall and weigh between 95 and 135 pounds, while females are generally 22 to 25 inches tall and weigh 80 to 100 pounds. Rottweilers have a black coat with tan markings, a well-muscled build, a broad head, and strong jaws. They are known for their intelligence, strength, and loyalty, which make them versatile working dogs and devoted family members.

Temperament and Personality

Boerboel Temperament

Boerboels are a confident and dominant breed known for their bright and eager-to-learn nature. Originally from South Africa, these dogs are no-nonsense guardians with a sleek coat and an imposing presence. Despite their intimidating appearance, Boerboels are affectionate with their families and can be gentle with children. They are highly devoted and protective, making them excellent guard dogs. Due to their size and protective instincts, Boerboels require experienced pet owners who can provide consistent training and socialization.

Bullmastiff Personality

Bullmastiffs are known for their gentle and affectionate nature towards their family. They possess a calm and easy-going temperament, making them a great fit for families with well-behaved children. Originally bred in England to guard estates, Bullmastiffs are fearless at work but docile at home. They can be independent thinkers and may exhibit suspicion towards strangers, necessitating early socialization and training. Their protective and territorial instincts make them reliable guardians, but they are not pushovers and require owners who can assert leadership.

Rottweiler Traits

Rottweilers are calm, confident, and courageous dogs that possess a natural protective instinct. They are intelligent and loyal and can make great family pets if they are properly socialized and trained. Although Rottweilers may appear aloof with strangers, they are not excessively aggressive. They are versatile and adaptable, originally bred for herding and guarding purposes. Male Rottweilers may be more dominant and protective, while female Rottweilers are often more affectionate and easier to control. It is important to train Rottweilers with consistency and firmness so they learn to respect their owners as their leaders.

Suitability for Families and Elderly People

All three dog breeds can make great companions for families, as long as they receive proper training, socialization, and exercise. Although they are all protective and can be good with children, due to their size and strength, it is important to supervise their interactions with young kids. 

These breeds are also suitable for older adults who seek companionship and security, but before getting one of these dogs, prospective owners should consider their ability to manage a large and powerful dog. For example, breeds such as Boerboels and Rottweilers require plenty of space and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. In contrast, a Bullmastiff, with its lower energy levels, maybe a better option for households that are less active.

Training and Exercise Needs

Boerboel Training and Exercise

Boerboels are known for their intelligence and willingness to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. However, due to their dominant nature, they require a firm and consistent hand. Therefore, early socialization is crucial to ensure they develop into well-rounded dogs. 

Boerboels are an active breed that needs regular physical activity to stay healthy and happy. This can include long walks, play sessions in a secure area, and mental stimulation through training exercises and games. Without adequate exercise, Boerboels can become bored and potentially destructive.

Bullmastiff Training and Exercise

Bullmastiffs are generally known for their calm and easy-going temperament, which makes them great pets. These dogs can be trained without much difficulty; however, they can also be stubborn at times, requiring a patient and consistent approach to training. Early socialization is also important for Bullmastiffs to ensure they become comfortable around different people and environments.

When it comes to exercise, Bullmastiffs need less activity than Boerboels and Rottweilers. They require moderate exercise to maintain their health, which can be achieved through daily walks and play sessions. Despite their size, Bullmastiffs can adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough exercise.

Rottweiler Training and Exercise

Rottweilers are a highly intelligent and trainable breed, but it is crucial to have a confident owner who can provide consistent and firm training. Early socialization and obedience training are essential for their development. Rottweilers have an active nature and require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. This can include activities like walks, runs, play sessions, and training exercises. Not providing enough exercise can make them bored and potentially destructive.

Health and Lifespan

Boerboel Health and Lifespan

Boerboels typically live for 9 to 11 years. While they are generally healthy, as a large breed, they are susceptible to certain health conditions. Common health issues that Boerboels may experience include hip and elbow dysplasia, heart disease, and gastric torsion or bloat. However, with proper care, regular veterinary check-ups, and a healthy lifestyle, these conditions can be managed effectively.

Bullmastiff Health and Lifespan

Bullmastiffs have a slightly shorter lifespan compared to Boerboels, usually living between 7 to 9 years. They are typically healthy dogs, but they can be susceptible to certain health problems due to their size and breeding. Common health issues in Bullmastiffs include heart disease, eye issues, elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and cancer. Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a particularly concerning condition for this breed.

Rottweiler Health and Lifespan

Rottweilers have a life expectancy of around 9-10 years, although some can live longer with proper care. They are generally healthy, but they are prone to joint disorders such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Other health concerns include cancer, heart problems, and gastric torsion. It's important for Rottweiler owners to be vigilant about their pet's health and to maintain regular veterinary visits.
 

Grooming and Maintenance

Boerboel Grooming and Maintenance

Boerboels have a short and dense coat which is quite easy to maintain. They shed moderately and require frequent brushing to keep their fur healthy and minimize shedding. You should bathe them as required and perform regular check-ups of their ears, teeth, and nails to ensure their overall health. As an active breed, Boerboels need regular exercise to keep them active and mentally stimulated.

Bullmastiff Grooming and Maintenance

Bullmastiffs have a short, dense coat that requires minimal grooming. They are average shedders and need regular brushing to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils. Regular dental and ear care is important for all breeds, and bathing is recommended as needed. Although Bullmastiffs are less active as compared to Boerboels and Rottweilers, they still require regular exercise to maintain healthy weight and muscle tone.

Rottweiler Grooming and Maintenance

Rottweilers have a double coat of medium length that sheds moderately throughout the year and more heavily during the shedding seasons. Regular brushing can help control shedding and maintain their coat in good health. Bathing should be done as needed, and it is essential to regularly check their ears, teeth, and nails. Rottweilers are an active breed that requires regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.

Cost and Availability

Boerboel Cost and Availability

Boerboels are rare, and as a result, they can be quite expensive. The cost of a Boerboel puppy can range from $1,500 to $7,000. Some breeders may even charge up to $6,600 for a Boerboel puppy with top-quality lineage. When you're considering purchasing a Boerboel, be aware that the initial costs include not only the purchase price but also expenses for setup and supplies, which can range from $150 to $600. Additionally, it's important to factor in monthly costs for food and maintenance. Boerboels are large dogs with substantial appetites and care requirements, so you can expect to pay more for their upkeep than you would for a smaller breed of dog.

Bullmastiff Cost and Availability

Bullmastiffs are popular and are widely available. If you are planning to buy a puppy from a reputable breeder, it will cost you between $1,000 and $2,500. However, you should also consider the initial expenses that include supplies and setup. Moreover, you should also take into account the ongoing expenses that will cover food, healthcare, grooming, licensing, and insurance costs. These expenses can amount to a lifetime expenditure of between $11,500 and $22,600, not including the initial cost of purchase or adoption.

Rottweiler Cost and Availability

Rottweilers are popular, and their cost can vary widely from $1,000 to $8,000, with an average price of $1,500 for a puppy from a breeder. Adopting a Rottweiler can be a more affordable option, with prices ranging from $50 to $550, which includes registrations and vaccinations. Monthly costs for a Rottweiler comprise diet, healthcare, grooming, and miscellaneous expenses. The lifetime cost for a Rottweiler ranges between approximately $17,165 and $37,230.

FAQs 

Are Boerboel's good family dogs?

Boerboels are known for being very protective and affectionate towards their families. If raised with children from a young age and given proper training and socialization, they can be good with kids. However, due to their large size and protective nature, interactions between Boerboels and small children should always be supervised to ensure everyone's safety.

Can Bullmastiffs live in apartments?

Despite their large size, Bullmastiffs can adapt to apartment living quite well. They have moderate exercise requirements and can be relatively inactive indoors. However, they still require daily walks to keep them healthy and prevent boredom.

Are Rottweilers aggressive?

Rottweilers are not inherently aggressive. They are loyal, intelligent, and protective, which can sometimes be mistaken for aggression. Proper training, socialization, and responsible ownership are crucial in shaping a well-behaved and sociable Rottweiler.

Conclusion

The Boerboel, a rare gem hailing from the rugged landscapes of South Africa. This muscular marvel is the epitome of strength and confidence, with an active disposition that demands regular exercise and plenty of space to thrive. If you're an experienced dog owner who's ready to take on a loyal and affectionate companion that requires firm training and socialization, the Boerboel might just be your perfect match. But be warned – their rarity comes with a higher price tag.

The Bullmastiff is a gentle giant with a heart of gold. Originally from England, this breed is a perfect blend of calmness and resilience, making them an ideal choice for families or individuals with a more relaxed lifestyle. With their moderate exercise needs and gentle nature, Bullmastiffs are the ultimate cuddle buddies3. But don't let their laid-back attitude fool you – their protective instincts are always on high alert.

The Rottweiler – a versatile and intelligent breed that's as loyal as they come. With their German origins and adaptable nature, Rottweilers can be excellent family pets when properly socialized. But like any powerful breed, they require consistent training and exercise to channel their energy positively. And while their popularity means they're more readily available than their Boerboel cousins, they still require a significant investment in terms of time and finances for their care.

So, which of these three incredible breeds is the right fit for you? It all comes down to your ability to meet their exercise, training, and financial requirements. But one thing's for sure – with the right care and environment, you'll be rewarded with a fulfilling and long-lasting relationship that's built on love, loyalty, and plenty of drool-worthy cuddles.

Whether you choose the rare and robust Boerboel, the calm and resilient Bullmastiff, or the versatile and intelligent Rottweiler, you're in for a wild and wonderful ride with these incredible dogs by your side. So, buckle up, grab some treats, and get ready to fall in love with these powerful, protective, and absolutely irresistible breeds!