The Ysterberger is a working mastiff, bred to guard and protect. The temperament of the Ysterbergs is its most attractive and most important characteristic. The Ysterbergs are bred with only one purpose: to guard and protect the family. These mastiffs are physically and mentally able to complete any task required of a farmer in South Africa, undoubtedly the harshest country in the world.
They are not dog or animal aggressive as they are often required to work together. Ysterbergers should not chase animals such as chickens, sheep or others farm animals as they were developed on the farm and were required to co-habitate with all forms of livestock. Because the Ysterberger is primarily a family and property guardian, he is happy in the family environment where he can establish his area to call his own. He is not prone to wander or bark without reason, rather he stays close to his family home, quietly doing exactly what he was bred for.
The Ysterberger should qualify himself as your best friend. He should know when you approve or disapprove of a person and share your feelings. The breed has been developed to be completely at ease around friends and family, not hyper or outwardly aggressive, yet an intelligent and loyal companion who is willing to lay down his life for his family. The Ysterberger will accept the whole family, not just one person, as their master because they feel their primary duty is to respect and protect all of you. Ysterbergers are good companions for children, he is a child's friend and playmate. Many stories have been told about a Ysterberger spending hour after hour guarding a little baby in a pram. He feels the whole family belongs to him and his sole purpose is to protect them, with his life, if necessary.
The Ysterberger is not just another big dog. It combines substance with soundness, athleticism and the wonderful temperament, the ideal family dog and great home protector.
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