Origin
The Broholmer, also known as the Danish Mastiff, is a huge molosser type of dog that has its roots in the country of Denmark. This Danish breed has been around since the Middle Ages, making it one of the oldest dogs that ever existed.
The Broholmer breed was a cross between an English Mastiff and some local dogs in Germany. It was named after Sehested of Broholm, a game-keeper who lived in the 18th century. They were used as stag hunters because of their big and strong bodies, as well as a retriever for hunters. They were even kept as manor pets because of their burly yet somewhat elegant form, making them the aristocrats’ favorite.
After World War II, the breed became nearly extinct. However, because of the good efforts made by a group of fanciers who came up with the Society for Reconstruction of the Broholmer Breed, the dog made a successful return in the 1970s.
The Broholmer is now recognized by the Danish Kennel Club and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). It was also recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in the year 2006.
Traits and Behavior
The Broholmer is a breed with initiative, confidence, and amazing vitality. It has a strong sense of responsibility in protecting its master without human assistance or guidance. With a remarkable sense of sight and hearing, they are very intelligent and can be taught easily. However, they might choose not to carry out someone’s orders on few occasions.
Many agree that these dogs are not the perfect pet choice for everyone, especially for people who had no experience in taking good care of animals.
Also, this large breed is not recommended to live in small quarters, together with young children as they might accidentally injure these children when they get excited.
Not surprisingly for a guard dog, the Broholmer is suspicious towards strangers. They tend to bark at night in response to the slightest movement or faintest sound.
When its owner isn’t home, it is very much unlikely that it’ll allow its master’s friends or extended family members (whom it has met before) to come onto its territory. This is an issue that is particularly worrisome after the dog reaches adulthood.
He needs a superior owner who is strong, kind, and would act like a boss at all times. Socialization must begin while they are still young. It is very important to start training these dogs as early as possible because interacting with a fully grown dog may be too hard for an average person.
Pet Care and Diseases
The Broholmer is generally a healthy breed but like any large breed of dogs, it may be prone to hip dysplasia. A careful regular check-up will help you spot potential health problems early before it gets worse.
If the Broholmer is provided with enough workout and play sessions, it can do well even in less spacious living settings such as an apartment or condominium.
However, it will be better if the dog can go to rural areas away from the crowded city where it can run along with wide spaces.
This dog has a bad habit of chewing random things or possessions in the house especially if it is left alone. Crate training (a process of teaching a pet to accept a dog crate or cage as a familiar and safe location) will be very beneficial to address this annoying habit.
When it comes to grooming, trim the coat or shave the ears to neaten the dog’s look. Don’t bathe the dog more often than what is needed.
The coat has an oily protective layer that is water-resistant to safeguard your dog from the harsh weather. So it is recommended to bathe it only when it’s dirty or smelly. Brush the coat at least twice a week to keep it in good shape.
Appearance
The Broholmer is a large dog of molasser type, strongly built, with composed and powerful stature. An adult Broholmer stands from 56-76 cm for the males and 56-76 cm for the males. Both genders weigh between 90-130 pounds and sometimes more than that range depending on their appetite.
The head is huge with large hanging ears. Its long neck is sturdy with loose skin. The big rectangular body has a chest that is both broad and deep and big powerful paws. Their fur is short and soft.
They have a long and thick looking tail which is a characteristic typical of all Broholmer dogs. The coat may be short and rough but it does have a striking appearance because of its vivid black, yellow or golden red color or in any shades of beige, red, and fawn.
General Information
The breed is expected to live for 7-12 years. A litter may consist of 4-10 puppies. Danish Broholmer, Danish Mastiff, Gammel Dansk Hund and Old Danish Dog are among Broholmer’s few other names.
Breed Club
Visit this dog club website dedicated to Broholmers. Click this link: