The Sunday News
Ngqwele Dube, Sunday News Correspondent
LOCAL Boerboel breeders had an opportunity to have their dogs appraised as part of efforts to ensure they meet the requisite traits.
Over 20 boerboels from six breeders based in Bulawayo had their dogs appraised during an event held yesterday at the ZITF Pavillion. One of the organisers, Mr Martin Chikwava said over the years they engaged a South African appraiser but opted for one based in Harare this year due to travel restrictions due to Covid-19 lockdown.
“We usually don’t use the local appraiser because he also has his own dogs but due to Covid-19 it was difficult to bring the breeder from South Africa. Registration ensures that a dog fetches more on the market as it has a traceable history. Buyers are in the distinct advantage that know who they are dealing with,” he said.
Mr Chikwava said some can claim they have a boerboel when what they have is in fact a Pitbull or something that resembles the former shortchanging the buyer. A registered Boerboel fetches US$1 000 while those sold by backyard breeders are bought for between US$150 and US$200.
Boerboel breeders register under the South Africal Boerboel Breeders’ Society, whose standards are used to appraise the dogs. The appraisal sheet metrics used to come up with the final score include general appearance, under which there is volume, balance height, gender authenticity, there are aspects of the head and face such as broad, typical boerboel features, forequarter, hindquarters, coat, temperament and movement.
For a dog to be approved and registered, it has to score 75 percent and above.
Mr Chikwava, of Baraka Boerboels said the aim was to get the most out of each boerboel.
“We breed to improve the breed hence when you have a missing trait in your dog you can engage other breeders and work together hence it is better if there are more breeders with a variety,” he said.
The appraisal in Bulawayo is done once a year. The appraisal was done by Harare-based Mr Shupi Chiminhi.
Harare-based organiser Mr Blessing Mujokoro said the appraisal assists breeders to improve on the strengths of their breeds.
“Once you have been scored, you can see where your dog is lacking in terms of the standards and can then breed with a dog which is strong in that area,” he said.
There are six registered dog breeders in Bulawayo, though more breeders operate as backyard breeders as more people have turned to the trade to make a living.
