A day in the life told by a Boerboel
I wake up and stretch, my tail thumping against the floor. My human laughs and says I'm too big for the bed. We head outside, and I sniff every bush, this is my territory. Then it's breakfast and a game of fetch. I love carrying the ball back slowly, just to see my human's smile. In the afternoon, we walk to the park where I guard the bench and watch kids play. Home again, I curl up by the couch, feeling the day's warmth. Belly rubs end the evening. I'm not just a dog; I'm the heart of this home.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Boerboel tipBoerboels are prone to weight gain, so keep treats modest and factor them into daily calories. For fast eaters or those with a sensitive stomach, split meals and avoid exercise right after eating to support comfortable digestion. Ask your vet about dental chews to help manage periodontal disease in this stoic breed.
Source: vcahospitals.com akc.org
Simple Carrot Crunchies
Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.
You need
- 1 large carrot, washed and peeled
How
- Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
- Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
- Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.
How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.
Recipe from The Kennel Club
Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup
Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.
You need
- 1 cooking pumpkin
- ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
- ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
- Cinnamon, to sprinkle
How
- Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
- Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
- Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
- Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
- Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
- Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.
How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.
Recipe from Dogs Trust
Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)
A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.
You need
- 1 egg
- 170g boiled chicken breast
- 100g cooked plain rice
- 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
- 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)
How
- Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
- Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
- Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
- Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
- Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
- Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
- Cool completely before serving.
How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.
Recipe from Blue Cross
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Boerboel, and at what times?
Feed your Boerboel at least two meals a day for an adult, or three to four smaller meals for a puppy, as their stomach empties quickly. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests daily feeding, and it's best to ask your vet for exact portions and timing.35 Pet Wiki plan
What should a Boerboel eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A diet made for large or giant breeds with moderate to high activity is ideal, and your vet can help with portions. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, which are especially harmful to dogs.36
How often should I bathe a Boerboel?
Bathe your Boerboel at least once every three months, or more often if they get very dirty or have skin issues. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, but always use a gentle dog shampoo.7 Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Boerboel need brushing?
Brush your Boerboel's short, smooth coat once a week to keep it healthy and shiny. Furry Diary's starting plan recommends weekly brushing, which is simple and helps reduce shedding.37 Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Boerboel's nails, and how often?
Trim your Boerboel's nails every 28 days, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain, and ask your vet or groomer for a demo if unsure.7 Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Boerboel need?
Your Boerboel needs about two hours of daily exercise and mental work to stay happy and calm. Furry Diary's starting plan includes daily walks and play, which fits their need for substantial activity.3 Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Boerboel's teeth and ears?
Brush your Boerboel's teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste, and check their floppy ears weekly for moisture or dirt. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests daily brushing and weekly ear checks, but never push anything into the ear canal.7 Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Boerboel live?
A Boerboel typically lives between 10 and 12 years, which is a good lifespan for a large breed. Regular vet checkups and a healthy lifestyle can help them thrive.3
Is a Boerboel good with children and other pets?
Yes, a Boerboel is deeply loyal and protective of its family, including children, but needs supervision and early socialisation. They can be watchful of other dogs, so introduce them carefully and with training.213
Can a Boerboel be left alone?
Boerboels are very attached to their family and may not do well alone for long periods. They need a securely fenced yard and plenty of company, so it's best to ask a good breeder or vet for advice on your specific situation.21
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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