Why do you love Boerboels? What is special about this race? Two things, perhaps three. Boerboels have character. They are intelligent, fearless, and above all, loyal. Secondly, they are reliable. They are very good with children, they are good to have in a family. And thirdly, they are beautiful! It's the sort of dog that make people stop and come and talk to you.

Why would someone choose a Boerboel above a Rotweiler or a Bulmastiff? Character and physique. You know you can always trust your Boerboel. I know of many owners of Rotweilers who have been bitten by their own dogs. I have never had that with any of my Boerboels. Boerboels are excellent guard dogs, without being a danger to their owner and human family. I also think Boerboels are more intelligent. And then, I like the way Boerboels look. You can see the muscles ripple in their chests and hips. They stand higher than Rotweilers and Bulmastiffs, and they just appear more solid and serious.

Is it true that a Boerboel can sense ones emotions? Or is it simply sentimentalism and peoples' imaginations running away? It is definitely true. They are very fine dogs. They notice the smallest things. They get to know their owners so well, it looks like they sense their very feelings and thoughts. And they hear things and see things that humans never can. Some of my dogs would know who was at the front door before the people even knocked or spoke.

How important is it to have your Boerboel "schooled" or trained? Very very important. You have to be in control of your dog from his puppy days. Boerboels are big dogs, they can bully you and manipulate you or just be ill mannered if you are not firm. If you have had big dogs before, you have an advantage. You already know how to be strict and what you can allow. But it is well worth the time and money to go on proper training with your dog. Anyway, it's fun for you and your Boerboel.

What is your advice to someone who want to breed, and not just own, Boerboels? Start small. See how you cope. Speak to as many people as you can. The South African Boerboel Breeding Association (SABT) can also give you some advice. I shall also help you where I can. (I am just a bit busy sometimes.) Breeding Boerboels is demanding but immensely fulfilling. The result of your careful planning, selection and hard work (also physical hard work!) is very visible: More beautiful and stronger and healthier dogs. That is very satisfying. It is like a parent who feels deeply satisfied when he sees his children flourish.

You need two things: You need to be passionate about the dogs. But being passionate isn't enough. You need to be disciplined. Disciplined, focused and scientific. You need to have a vision of where you are going, and you need to be systematic in your planning. And you shouldn't be in a hurry. It is nice if you do it as a hobby.