Spanish Water Dog vs Boerboel - Breed Comparison | Petzlover

Spanish Water Dog vs Boerboel - Breed ComparisonBoerboel is originated from South Africa but Spanish Water Dog is originated from Spain. Boerboel may grow 20 cm / 8 inches higher than Spanish Water Dog. Boerboel may weigh 68 kg / 150 pounds more than Spanish Water Dog. Both Boerboel and Spanish Water Dog has almost same life span. Both Boerboel and Spanish Water Dog has almost same litter size. Boerboel requires Low Maintenance. But Spanish Water Dog requires Moderate Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Herding dogs
undefined
South Africa
Spain
Height Male:
64 - 70 cm
25 - 28 inches
44 - 50 cm
17 - 20 inches
Height Female:
59 - 65 cm
23 - 26 inches
40 - 45 cm
15 - 18 inches
Weight Male:
70 - 90 kg
154 - 199 pounds
18 - 22 kg
39 - 49 pounds
Weight Female:
68 - 90 kg
149 - 199 pounds
14 - 18 kg
30 - 40 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
12 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 10
5 - 8
Size:
Large
Medium
Other Names:
South African Boerboel, African Boerboel, South African Mastiff, African Mastiff
Perro de agua Español SWD Turco Andaluz • Turkish Dog
Colors Available:
Fawn, Red, Brown, Brindle
solid black, beige, brown, or white; bicolour where the second colour is white; or particolour
Coat:
Short and dense
distinctive curly coat which is woolly in texture and may form cords when long
Shedding:
Minimal, Constant
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Affectionate, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

History

boerboelThe name ‘Boerboel’ is derived from an Afrikaans/Dutch word, and the large Boerboel dog from South Africa has been specifically bred to be a farmer’s dog. Bred also to be a strong guard dog, the Boerboel is a mix of different African and European breeds, which in all likelihood, will include the Bullmastiff, the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Bulldog. These dogs were used to hunt baboon and leopard.

There is some information that suggests that the Boerboel was brought to South Africa by Jan van Riebeeck in 1652. Other information suggest that the dog is a descendant of the old Boer Hund, a powerful animal which was invaluable to the farmer.

In was in January 2010, that the American Boerboel Club was elected as the AKC’s Parent Club. The Boerboel was accepted into the Miscellaneous Class in the Working dog group.

spanish water dogBred in Spain to guard and herd sheep, the Spanish Water Dog was also used in hunting because he could retrieve in water. The breed is closely aligned with other water dogs like the Irish Water Spaniel, Portuguese Water Dog and French Barbel. It is especially true that the Spanish Water Dog and the Portuguese Water Dog share some of the same ancestors. The two breeds are closely related.

In the early days of the breed, they were separated into three different sizes and types. The dogs from Northern Spain were smaller than the others and came from the regions of Cantabria and Asturias. These lighter colored dogs eventually became their own breed – the Cantabria Water Dog. The second group came from western Andalusia marsh lands. He had a long chorded coat. The third group was the strongest and largest and came from the southern Andalusian sierras. This was by far the largest and most influential group, most of whom were herders. Eventually the groups interbred and today’s SWD carries the traits of all three. They were and still are a very versatile breed. In addition to herding they fished or retrieved for hunters.

The breed was revived in the 1970”s by two breeders, Santiago Montesinos and Antonio Garcia Perez travelled through southern Spain to buy or borrow dogs for breeding. By 1980, they had established the Spanish Water Dog Club of Spain and reestablished the breed. They fought to the breed recognized in Spain first. After five years of hard work, the Federation Cynologique Internationale recognized the breed permanently in 1999.

The UKC, or United Kennel Club, of the United States, recognized the breed in 2001, accepting them for confirmation by 2004. In the United States the breed was championed by Ken and Jerry Mann to attain that UKC recognition. Still the AKC, or American Kennel Club, held out on their recognition. The Manns showed the SWD in 2000 in the AKC Rare Breed Conformation and the UKC multi-breed show in 2004.

The Manns also used their breed for herding in the United States in entered them into the herding competition. In the they advocated for and got the SWD into the herding group for confirmation with the UKC in 2013. The American Kennel Club approved the requests of the Spanish Water Dog Club, Inc and recognized the breed in 2005 as foundation stock. By 2008 the AKC recognized the SWD to be able to compete in field trials by not conformation. In 2015 the SWD will be admitting to AKC conformation and fully recognized as a member of the herding group. They were also recognized by the American Herding Breed Association in 2007.

Description

Looks

boerboel puppy - descriptionThe Boerboel is a big, strong dog with powerful muscles. His height is between 61 – 66cm. He is similar looking to the Boxer dog, just heavier and bigger. The head of the dog is broad and big and the short, smooth coat can be of various shades, with breeders trying to achieve a single color of light tan and with no white. Their coats can also be red, different shades of brown and brindle.

The dog has a black facial mask and the eyes are brown with the ears being of medium length and floppy. The Boerboel’s tail has always been docked, but today breeders are keeping the tail long. Many Boerboel lovers object to this, saying it detracts from the distinctive look of the Boerboel.

Temperament

The Boerboel can be a wonderfully loyal and loving pet to their owners. They are territorial dogs and suspicious of strangers. This is a dog where it is imperative that they receive training and socialization as a puppy. They have leanings towards being aggressive so they wouldn’t be recommended to first time dog owners, unless of course the first time owners are firm and strong.

Boerboels raised the right way can be gentle giants. They often get bad publicity as regards to aggression, but this is because of they way they have been raised. Boerboels have been bred to be tough and fearless and they make excellent watchdogs. When raised and trained correctly, they make awesome, devoted companions, even around children and other pets.

spanish water dog puppy - descriptionThe Spanish Water Dog is an athletic, medium size, robust breed that is not as tall as it is long. In countries like the US, the tails are docked but it is not a conformation fault if they are not. The carry themselves with pride and elegance, have a strong head and expressive eyes which are brown. They have flat skulls and wide set eyes. Their paw pads, eye-rims and nose should be darker than their coat or at least the same color. Their eyes are chestnut, hazel or dark brown and their ears are medium height and triangular. His coat is curly and his topline is straight. With a broad chest and arched rib, he is a very athletic looking dog. The breed has much respiratory capacity with broad shoulders and straight sturdy legs. The breed has rounded feet , tight toes, and resistant pads.

Characteristics

boerboel dog - characteristicsA well trained, socialized Boerboel makes a splendid pet. This is one breed known to have excellent guard- and watch dog characteristics. Boerboels are known for being protective when necessary. When not on guard, they make wonderful pets. He’ll need plenty of exercise, but he loves to also spend time indoors with his human family.

This a a bold, fearless dog who becomes devoted to his family. With the right training he is obedient and affectionate and knows how to behave appropriately indoors- and outdoors. For such a big dog, the African Boeboel’s temperament can be surprisingly gentle and affectionate around the family that he loves.

1.Children friendliness - yes

2.Special talents - water/swimming search and rescue

spanish water dog dog - characteristics3.Adaptability - very adaptable with the right exercise. Neither heat nor cold bother them.

4.Learning ability – Smart but need a reliable recall.

Health Problems

boerboel puppies - health problemsMany health problems experienced with any dog are found in the way dogs are fed, the way they are exercised and the way they are attended to when they are ill. Boerboels are healthy dogs and suffer fewer health defects than most similar breeds. The average life expectancy of a Boerboel is about 10 to 12 years. There are one or two health issues you’ll want to watch out for with your Boerboel.

Hip dysplasia

This aliment is typically found in large breed dogs. It’s a problem caused by a malformation of the hip joint. Over time hip dysplasia causes discomfort, pain and even arthritis and lameness. It is genetically inherited, with its severity being influenced by environmental factors. There are treatments available to alleviate the symptoms and make the dog more comfortable.

Obesity

The Boerboel has plenty of muscle mass, and because he is such a large dog with a big appetite, he can lean towards obesity. Plenty of activities will be imperative to maintain muscle mass and ward off obesity. Over-eating suppresses the immune system, so over-feeding your dog simply contributes to ill health.

spanish water dog puppies - health problemsThe Spanish Water Dog has much of the same health problems as the other water dogs and dogs their size and heritage. Here are some of the health issues they are prone to.

  • PRA- Progressive retinal atrophy – can cause blindness.
  • Hip dysplasia- can cause lameness or arthritis.
  • Cherry eye – can be successfully treated.
  • Cataracts – usually in old age and not removed.
  • Hypothyroidism – affects the immune system of middle aged dogs.
  • Allergies – skin and food.

• Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency – inability to digest food – can be treated.

  • Addison’s Disease – Adrenal glands not functioning. Can be treated.

• CHG – Congenital Hypothyroidism with Goiter – inherited and pups don’t grow correctly.

• Neuroaxonal Dystrophy – cognitive and muscular dysfunction. Vitamin E and insulin deficiency

Caring The Pet

Grooming

boerboel dogs - caringBoerboels are a robust breed and their short hair doesn’t shed heavily. Your Boerbul will require a thorough brushing twice a week to remove loose hair and to keep the coat shiny and healthy.

Boerboels, just like any other dog, should have their teeth brushed regularly to prevent tartar and plaque build-up. Left unattended, your pet can battle with tooth decay and gum disease.

Feeding

Your Boerboel puppy will need ‘large breed puppy’ dog food. Speak to your veterinarian about wet- or dry kibble choices. An adult Boerboel will certainly need raw meat in his diet. When you do research, you find that the best Boerboel breeders are advocates for raw feeding. Home made food with rice, vegetables and meat as well as the best quality commercially manufactured dog foods for large breeds are excellent choices but raw meat is imperative as part of every dog’s diet.

spanish water dog dogs - caring1.Feeding the puppy – Because of the breed propensity to some genetic dietary issues it is important to feed high quality food made from mostly meat. Avoid grains as much as possible. Don’t feed adult foods to the puppies. Feed puppy breed specific or medium size dogs.

2.Feeding the adult - Feed the adult as little grain and as much protein as possible. Feed adult breed specific or medium size dog’s food.

3.Points for Good Health - speed, stamina and agility

4. Games and Exercises – This is a working breed. Remember they are both herders and hunters and need exercise. They love strenuous hiking, running, jogging, long walks, swimming and playing fetch. Don’t over work the puppy/young dog until they have matured and their growth plates close.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Spanish Water Dog vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Spanish Water Dog vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Spanish Water Dog vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Spanish Water Dog vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Spanish Water Dog vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Spanish Water Dog vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Spanish Water Dog vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Spanish Water Dog vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Spanish Water Dog vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Spanish Water Dog vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Spanish Water Dog vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Spanish Water Dog vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Spanish Water Dog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Spanish Water Dog vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Spanish Water Dog vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Spanish Water Dog vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Spanish Water Dog vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Spanish Water Dog vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Spanish Water Dog vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Spanish Water Dog vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Spanish Water Dog vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Spanish Water Dog vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Spanish Water Dog vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Spanish Water Dog vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Spanish Water Dog vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Boerboel vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Boerboel vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Boerboel vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Boerboel vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Boerboel vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Boerboel vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Boerboel vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Boerboel vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Boerboel vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Boerboel vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Boerboel vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Boerboel vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Boerboel vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Boerboel vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Boerboel vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Boerboel vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Boerboel vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Boerboel vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Boerboel vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Boerboel vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Boerboel vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Boerboel vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Boerboel vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Boerboel vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Boerboel vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison