Hovawart vs Boerboel
Breed Compatibility
87% Compatible
Energy Level
Hovawart: Regular Exercise0.6
Boerboel: Calm0.4
Very Compatible
Trainability
Hovawart: May be Stubborn0.2
Boerboel: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Hovawart: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Boerboel: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Hovawart4/5
Boerboel4/5
Good with Other Dogs
Hovawart4/5
Boerboel2/5
Good with Strangers
Hovawart4/5
Boerboel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Hovawart
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
Heart Disease: Cardiac health concerns
Bloat: Digestive emergency risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Boerboel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint issues
Heart Problems: Cardiac concerns
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Ectropion: Eyelid condition
Pros & Cons Comparison
Hovawart
Pros
Loyal and protective
Intelligent
Good with family
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
Strong-willed
Needs extensive training
High exercise needs
Reserved with strangers
Boerboel
Pros
Excellent guardian
Loyal family companion
Intelligent
Calm temperament
Low grooming needs
Cons
Requires extensive training
Not suitable for small spaces
High food costs
May be too powerful for inexperienced owners
Hovawart Fun Fact
Hovawarts were mentioned in German law books from the 13th century as valuable property worth defending.
Boerboel Fun Fact
Despite their imposing size, Boerboels are known as 'velcro dogs' due to their desire to stay close to their owners.
Heritage & Purpose
Hovawart
Origin:
Developed in medieval Germany as estate guardians and working farm dogs. Black Forest farmers valued these dogs for their protective instincts and versatile working abilities.
Boerboel
Origin:
Developed in South Africa during the 17th century as farm guardians and protectors against predators. These dogs were essential for protecting homesteads and livestock.
Special Considerations
Hovawart
Needs consistent training from an early age. Regular grooming during shedding seasons. Exercise requirements must be met daily to prevent behavioral issues.
Boerboel
Needs early socialization and training. Regular exercise essential despite calm nature. Health monitoring important due to size-related issues.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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