Boerboel

Farmers called Boer arrived in South Africa in the mid-1600s and in order to protect their homesteads, they brought dogs that they interbred—the result is the Boerboel, a mastiff-type canine that can weigh as much as 200 pounds. They were developed to protect the family so that when provoked, they won’t hesitate to attack.

Their short tail was said to be due to practicality because farmers didn’t want dexterous baboons to get an advantage over the dog. The Boerboel should be trained early on before they reach adulthood. They are not for novice pet owners but can do well with a household with kids if taught during developmental years.