Years of meticulous planning, selective breeding, and a deep passion for preserving authentic South African Boerboel bloodlines (SABBS) paid off in a remarkable achievement for Free State breeder Ziyaad Issa of Bandit Boerboels. His dog, Bandit Orion, secured top honors at the SABBS International Boerboel Show in June 2026. The dog esteemed competition took place in Parys, Free State on 25 and 26 June.Brandit Orion was crowned Dog of the Year, Senior Champion, Grand Champion, and winner of Class 7B Males (18–24 months).
The achievement follows Bandit Boerboels’ runner-up finish at the 2025 SA Studbook Elite Awards, further cementing the kennel’s reputation among South Africa’s leading Boerboel breeders.For Issa, the victory was the result of years of dedication rather than a single competition.After winning Class 7B, Issa believed Orion had the potential to compete for the overall titles, but says the final moments in the championship ring tested his emotions.
“When they announced positions five to two and my dog’s number had not been called and I was extremely nervous.
“Why did I not exit the ring but it turns out we showed our hearts out and I felt elevated and ecstatic at the same time, almost as if I ran a marathon.
“This is certainly a moment that I will always remember and cherish,” he said.
Behind the championship title lies five years of rigorous work aimed at restoring valuable Boerboel genetics that have gradually disappeared over time. Issa, says he deliberately sourced older bloodlines to recreate a balanced Boerboel.
“My mission was to recreate a well-balanced dog with sound movement and an excellent temperament, he said.
Issa says he invested in developing his own expertise by attending breeder workshops, studying the breed extensively, and pursuing qualification as a SABBS Junior appraiser. He says he ensured that Bandit Orion met strict health standards through comprehensive health testing, embark on some DNA testing and registration as a semen donor.Issa’s passion for Boerboels dates back to his childhood.
As a Grade 1 learner, he visited a farmer in Lady Grey in the Eastern Cape who owned Boerboels. He says their impressive size and commanding presence inspired a dream that would eventually grow into Bandit Boerboels. He says that same year, his mother bought him his first Boerboel puppy, laying the foundation for a lifelong pursuit.
Today, Issa encourages aspiring breeders and dog owners to focus on learning rather than immediate success. Issa says every competition offers valuable lessons, whether through victories, setbacks, or new knowledge.
“Start by attending local puppy classes to familiarise yourself with basic socialization, basic commands and obedience training with your four-legged friend, enter the very first show you can attend and go there to have fun and learn.
“The mission is never to always win but to walk away with something whether it may be knowledge, insights or losses but the aim is to participate,” Issa said.
