Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs Boerboel - Breed Comparison

Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs Boerboel - Breed ComparisonBoerboel is originated from South Africa but Schweizer Niederlaufhund is originated from Switzerland. Boerboel may grow 27 cm / 11 inches higher than Schweizer Niederlaufhund. Boerboel may weigh 75 kg / 166 pounds more than Schweizer Niederlaufhund. Boerboel may live 4 years less than Schweizer Niederlaufhund. Boerboel may have more litter size than Schweizer Niederlaufhund. Both Boerboel and Schweizer Niederlaufhund requires Low Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Hound dog
undefined
South Africa
Switzerland
Height Male:
64 - 70 cm
25 - 28 inches
35 - 43 cm
13 - 17 inches
Height Female:
59 - 65 cm
23 - 26 inches
33 - 40 cm
12 - 16 inches
Weight Male:
70 - 90 kg
154 - 199 pounds
8 - 15 kg
17 - 34 pounds
Weight Female:
68 - 90 kg
149 - 199 pounds
6 - 18 kg
13 - 40 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
12 - 16 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 10
5 - 7
Size:
Large
Medium
Other Names:
South African Boerboel, African Boerboel, South African Mastiff, African Mastiff
Small Swiss Hound.
Colors Available:
Fawn, Red, Brown, Brindle
mostly white with orange, tri color, mostly white with black, black with tan
Coat:
Short and dense
smooth or coarse
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, Courageous, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Stubborn
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
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.

schweizer niederlaufhundOriginating in Switzerland, the Schweizer Niederlaufhund was established around 1900, when hunting became restricted to districts. The Swiss hunter needed a slower dog for the limited territory they could hunt in. Crossing selected Schweizer Laufhunds with Basset Hounds and other selected smaller, short legged hounds developed the Schweizer Niederlaufhund. By 1905 there was already a Schweizer Niederlaufhund Club.

The Niederlaufhund became one of the best hunting dogs in the world, with its powerful body and ability to outhunt the Laufhund in tracking big game. Slower of course than the Laufhund it has a great sense of smell and an ability to easily find wounded animals. There are a few varieties, just like with the Swiss Hound again mostly because of their coloring. The Luzerner Niederlaufhund, the Jura Neiderlaufhund, and the Schwyzerlaufhund. They have musical voices that they use to communicate with the hunters and each other as well as that amazing sense of smell. They can hunt for hours without tiring and without much information from the hunter.

They are a cross breed not recognized by the larger kennel club such as the AKC and the UKC. They are recognized by the Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA), the American Canine Association Inc. (ACA) and most importantly by the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI). This last one is important because it could lead to recognition as a new breed by the UKC and the AKC.

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.

schweizer niederlaufhund puppy - descriptionThe Schweizer Niederlaufhund is a medium size, short dog. They look like their cousins, the Schweizer Laufhund but smaller. Their body is just slightly longer than it is tall, so you are left with the impression of a mostly square dog. The Niederlaufhund is well put together, with strong legs, a noble head, long droopy ears, broad chest, and a low held tail.

The Small Lucerne Hound has a white cote with smooth speckles of black or gray making them appear to be blue.

The Small Bernese Hound has a tricolor coat of white, tan and black. There are tan marks on the eyebrows. There is a wire haired Small Bernese as well. He has a short beard.

The Small Schwyz Hound is smooth coated in white with orange or yellow-red patches. The wired haired version is extinct.

The Small Jura Hound is a single coated dog with a black coat and tan marking above his eyes as eyebrows as well. He might have some white as well.

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.

schweizer niederlaufhund dog - characteristicsChildren friendliness – yes, they are but use caution around small children and small prey.

2. Special talents – the breed exhibits and amazing sense of smell.

3. Adaptability - needs room to run and explore – is very frustrated when confined.

4. Learning ability – highly intelligent and eager to learn.

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.

schweizer niederlaufhund puppies - health problemsThe Niederlaufhund Is prone to a very medical issues to keep an eye on. They include:

• Hip Dysplasia – This comes from hip joints that are not well formed and cause reduced mobility and pain. Parents can be tested before the dogs are bred to make sure their hips are good, and that dysplasia will not be passed to puppies. This dysplasia can cause arthritis and even lameness.

• Ear Infections – With long drooping ears it is easy for the dog to acquire ear infections. This is even more so for a hunting dog like the Niederlafhund. It is important to clean the dog’s ears on a regular basis.

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.

schweizer niederlaufhund dogs - caring1Feeding the puppy - give 1 cup per day of high quality dog food divided into 3 meals.

2.Feeding the adult – give one and one half cups of high quality dog food divided into 2 meals.

3.Points for Good Health - Stamina

4. Games and Exercises – needs a lot of daily exercise and loves field trials, running and activities like barn hunt.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Schweizer Niederlaufhund vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Schweizer Niederlaufhund 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