Page 246 - Showsight December 2020

BOERBEL MENTOR INTERVIEWS
THE BIGGER DOG IS NOT NECESSARILY THE BETTER DOG. IT SHOULD LOOK LIKE A BOERBOEL, NOT A BULLMASTIFF OR ENGLISH MASTIFF.”
3. How has the breed changed since you became involved with it? Do you see any trends that you think are moving the breed in the wrong direction? Any traits becoming exaggerated?
Having had Boerboels for many years, there have been many changes—many in the wrong direction. Too many new “greeders” in the breed have jumped in solely to make money; breeding unsuitable colors and types, cross-breeding and calling them Boerboels, etc. Many of these places are breeding dogs (when they have never raised one to adulthood themselves) and then giving information to new buyers that is either completely wrong or definitely misguided. Buyers MUST educate themselves and not just go by a pretty ad they see on social media or take to heart advice they receive on message boards from people with little-to-no real experience with this breed who portray themselves as experts. More buyers need to consult their breeder, mentor or vet for sound advice.
4. Is there anything that Boerboel handlers do that you wish they would not?
Not having the dog socialized and/or trained enough to show.
5. What do you think new judges misunderstand about the breed?
I think judges misunderstand the true type of the breed. There are many differences in type being shown, but judges need to adhere to the standard—not to what is necessarily winning currently in the shows. These dogs must be large, strong, and imposing; not weedy, narrow, houndy, sloppy or overdone. A tough standard to meet for sure!
KYLE TOMKINSON
I am Kyle Tomkinson and have had Boerboels since 2002. I have titled Boerboels in AKC conformation, tracking, and rally. I am currently an AKC CGC, Farm Dog and AKC TT evaluator. I have served the American Boerboel Club as President and as a direc- tor, also serving on the ABC Constitution and By-Law committee, Judges Education and show committees.
1. Which five traits do you look for, in order, when evaluating Boerboels? What do you con- sider the ultimate hallmark of the breed?
Balance in the dog’s structure from head to tail, correct headpiece, level topline, rear angulation, and depth of chest. To me, the ultimate hallmark of the Boerboel is its head.
2. What faults do you find difficult to overlook?
I find it difficult to overlook a dog that is out of balance. For example, an obviously small head on a large body. I have difficulty overlooking a sloppy topline; sway back or roach back. I also find it difficult to overlook an overly timid or aggressive temperament.
3. How has the breed changed since you became involved with it. Do you see any trends you think are moving the breed in the wrong direction? Any traits becoming exaggerated?
I see breeders are tending to breed dogs with looser flews and more excess skin. Many of the breeders are looking for a larger, less agile dog; “the bigger, the better.” Boerboels should not weigh 185 to 200 pounds or more. It is my belief that the increase in the size of the dog is negative as it decreases the dog’s functionality which, in turn, decreases its ability to do its original job functions. Of course, the added bulk contributes to joint and general health problems.
4. Is there anything that Boerboel handlers do that you wish they would not?
I have seen the occasional handler hold the tail up, be it docked or a natural one. This is not necessary for the breed and I believe it detracts from the “look” of the dog.
5. What are your “must have” traits in this breed?
I must have a balanced dog. I prefer overall balance to an outstanding headpiece with a mediocre structure. I prefer a well-proportioned head and a level topline. It is always nice to see a dog with rear angulation, which is difficult to find. As the Boerboel is a working breed, I must see good movement; reach and drive, able to move with purpose.
6. What do you think new judges misunderstand about the breed?
The bigger dog is not necessarily the better dog. It should look like a Boerboel, not a Bullmastiff or English Mastiff. Docked tails and natural tails are of equal value; it is the tail set that matters. The head is what makes this breed distinct from other Molosser breeds.
244 | SHOWSIGHT MAGAZINE, DECEMBER 2020