Top Tier Boerboels is your premier South African Boerboel breeder serving St. Louis, MO, Chicago, IL, Atlanta, GA, and California. We breed many different types of Boerboels, but one complex aspect of Boerboel classification is the existence of black and tan Boerboels. Read on to learn more about this unique variation of the breed, and browse our Boerboels for sale!
The Mysterious Black & Tan Boerboel
Brief History of the Boerboel
As explained by the American Kennel Club (AKC), Boerboels are descended from working dogs owned by Dutch farmers who settled in South Africa in the 1600s. While their exact history is unclear, they appear to be the result of cross-breeding between the extinct Bullenbeisser, Bullmastiffs, and Bulldogs. In the early 1980s in South Africa, work began to make Boerboels an officially recognized breed. In 2015, Boerboels became fully recognized by the AKC.
Boerboels thrive in active and loving households. While they do require training and ample socialization because of their protective nature, their reputation for being loyal, intelligent, calm, and strong makes them easily trainable and sought after as loving family companions.
Why Are Some Boerboels Black and Tan?
Boerboels have been crossbred with different breeds to create a black and tan coloration, such as Neapolitan Mastiffs and Black Labs. This cross-breeding, however, caused controversy among various breed clubs who disagreed on whether or not these dogs should be considered Boerboels.
Are Black and Tan Boerboels Officially Recognized?
The AKC does not recognize black and tan Boerboels because they fall outside of their accepted base colors for the breed, including fawn, cream, red, brown, reddish brown, and brindle. The Kennel Union of South Africa also does not recognize black Boerboels, and neither does the South African Boerboel Breeders' Society (SABBS).
Those in favor of officially recognizing black and tan Boerboels argue that they have the same highly sought-after personality traits as typical Boerboels. While black and tan Boerboels may not be widely accepted as part of the breed, they still hold a place in the hearts of many who appreciate their unique coloring.
If you’re interested in owning your own Boerboel, fill out our questionnaire today! We’re so excited to help you meet your family’s next companion.