Imagine 2 big dogs belonging to different ends of the world, one is from the white peaks os Tibet and the other from the plains of South Africa. But both are loyal, bold, and built to protect.
The Tibetan mastiff is an old breed that used to guard monasteries and livestock in the Himalayan region. This dog is 26 inches tall and can weigh over 100 pounds. Moreover, the craziest thing about his dog is that it is the world’s costliest canine and holder of a Guinness World Record. Back in 2011, this puppy was sold for 10 million Chinese Yuan.
On the other hand, the Boerboel is the powerhouse of South Africa. This South African mastiff was also bred to defend the farm from lions and other animals. This muscular dog breed weighs over 100 pounds.
Both dogs are best, but they differ in behavior, training needs, and environmental preferences. In this blog, we will break down their differences in size, personality, grooming, health, and more. If you are in search of your new pup, this will help you in deciding on which dog breed is the best option for you.
Tibetan Mastiff vs. Boerboel: Power, Personality, and Paws
Choosing between a Mastiff and a Boerboel simply means deciding between two world’s best dogs. Both are known for impressive qualities and characteristics, but they do differ in various aspects. Let’s explore each aspect in detail to help you make the best decision while selecting your next pet.
Size and Weight Differences
Both dogs are large and powerful, but there is a reasonable difference in their size and buildup. When we talk about size, Mastiffs fall into the category of large dogs. The Mastiff typically weighs between 140 to 170 pounds, and its average height is 26.5 inches in males and 23 to 25.5 inches in females.
On the other hand, the Boerboel is a large, giant dog that weighs between 154 to 200 pounds, and its average weight is 177 pounds. Boerboel males are 25-28 inches tall, while females: 23-25.5 inches.
Temperament and Personality Traits
When we talk about dogs, very 1st quality that comes to mind is loyalty, and you will get plenty of that from a Tibetan Mastiff, as per the AKC. They are independent and love to enjoy themselves. Originally bred as guardians, they are quite intelligent and possess a protective instinct.
Therefore, they are reserved with unknown people. This does not mean they are not friendly. They develop a strong bond with family members. Moreover, they are very affectionate and playful with those they know.
When talking about the Boerboel, they are also friendly, affectionate, and people-oriented. With the right socialization and training, these loving and energetic dogs can be gentle giants. Moreover, they are perfect family companions and perfect for those families that have small kids.
They love to go on walks, run, hike, and swim. Apart from their sweet-tempered nature, they are defensive and will guard their home and loved ones.
Trainability and Intelligence
As mentioned earlier, both breeds are intelligent. But their trainability differs due to temperament.
Tibetan Mastiff is an intelligent and independent dog breed. They think about themselves and love to do what they like. Therefore, you may find it difficult to train them, especially first-time dog owners. If you want your Mastiff to be well-mannered, start socialization and basic obedience at an early age. Moreover, harsh methods don’t work on these breeds; therefore, use positive reinforcements.
The Boerboel, on the other hand, is an intelligent dog breed that loves to please its owner. They are easy to train with positive reinforcement training. But if you are an inexperienced owner, this pet is not for you. Moreover, early socialization is important for making them well-mannered and confident.
Energy Levels and Exercise Needs
Tibetan Mastiffs possess a medium energy level, and usually they conserve their energy and which is directed towards. That is why you will see them patrolling the perimeter instead of playing with other dogs. Moreover, daily one-hour exercise is enough for these large-framed and hefty-weight dogs. Till puppies are fully mature, those exercises that are repetitive in nature must be limited.
Boerbeol, which is a working dog breed, possesses a high energy level. They love playing with their families. This energetic dog requires a significant amount of energy. 1.5 to hours of exercise is are must to keep them active. Owners must note that exercise must be done with caution. Growing bodies may be prone to injuries. But as they grow up duration of exercise can be increased.
Playfulness and Activity Preferences
As mentioned above, Mastiffs are medium-energy dogs who are not very playful. They like going on a walk, agility, guarding livestock, and running through the snow
Boerboels are more playful dogs who not only love a lot of exercise but also love to play with kids at home or outside. They are perfect at running, hiking, and swimming.
Dietary Needs and Weight Management
Providing nutritious and delicious food in food in very important aspect of caring for a dog. Raw food is best for the Mastiff. Natural food not only keeps dogs healthy but also provides the necessary nutritions that prevent or controls health issues. But before selecting food for the dog, do consider its anatomy and digestive system.
Provide them quality meat, essential Fatty acids and omegas, small amounts of carbohydrates from vegetables/herbs/ berries, natural vitamins and minerals from bone and plant sources, and high moisture foods and drinking water. Moreover, to manage the weight of this breed, you must focus on a balanced diet, normal exercise, and mindful feeding.
Your Boerboel’s diet should be based on dry kibble when they are in the growing stage. Raw food should be added when puppies are grown enough, and the ratio of nutrients is not that crucial. Remember that a balanced diet rich in high-quality protein is essential for maintaining healthy muscles and a healthy body.
Health Conditions and Lifespan
According to PetMD, the general life expectancy of the Tibetan Mastiff is 10 to 12 years. Moreover, like other breeds, they also have various health issues. They have eye problems like entropion and ectropion, both related to the rolling of eyelids. These problems can lead to various other eye-related issues. Other health problems include Elbow and Hip Dysplasia, Hypothyroidism, or Lethargy.
Generally, Boerboel dogs have a shorter life span. They live between 9 to 11 years. During their life, they can develop various health conditions. They can also suffer from entropion and ectropion, Elbow and Hip Dysplasia, and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). DCM affects the heart muscles and reduces the heart’s ability to pump blood.
Allergies and Grooming Requirements
The Tibetan Mastiff has a long, thick overcoat and a soft, woolly undercoat. During summer, this dog sheds its undercoat. Therefore, extra brushing is required to keep it neat and tidy. The long coat must be brushed several times a week. You can give a bath after three months.
Rest, nail clipping, and teeth brushing must be done frequently. They can also have allergies like swelling, sore throat, facial pain, etc. It is recommended to consult a vet.
Boerboel has a unique coat that is double-haired. It looks very beautiful, but if you do not take care, it will start shedding. Bathe them monthly and don’t go for excessively skin-drying. Moreover, do frequent brushing to clean the undercoat, and also do nail trimming.
Further regular teeth brushing is also required to keep plaque at bay. If you do not take care of grooming, they can be prone to allergies like sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, coughing, wheezing, and skin reactions like itching, redness, or hives.
Conclusion
So, who wins the battle, the Tibetan Mastiff or the Boerboel? Well, that depends on you. If you like a calm, fluffy guardian who enjoys his space, go for the Tibetan Mastiff. Just be ready for that hair, lots of it!
If you want a big, active cuddle machine who loves kids and zoomies, the Boerboel is your dog. Just remember, he’s strong enough to drag you on your morning walk. Both are loyal, brave, and built like tanks. So choose the one that fits your lifestyle, not just your sofa size
