Broholmer

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Broholmer (also called Danish Broholmer) is a large dog of molosser type originating in Denmark. It has been in existence since the Middle Ages when it was used to hunt stag. Later it was used as guardian of farms. The dog nearly became extinct during WWII but a group of worker formed a Society for Reconstruction of the Broholmer Breed to save this dog from extinction and now the dog is increasing in numbers and popularity.

This is a large Mastiff dog with an imposing built, loud voice and dominant walk. The big but athletic dog stands between 27 to 29.5 inches and weighs between 90-150 pounds. The head is fairly big and broad, giving impression of heaviness. Skull is broad and flat while muzzle is massive. Lips are pendulous. Nose is large and black. Round eyes are moderate size and come in light to dark amber color. Expression shows self confidence. Medium size ears are set high and hang close to cheek. Neck is very strong and powerful. Body is rectangular with straight topline, strong well-defined withers, fairly long back and medium length croup which crops slightly. Chest is deep and powerful. The tail is set fairly low, broad at birth, carried hanging without flag or feathering. The coat is short and closely-fitted with thick undercoat. The coat colors can be yellow with black mask, golden red or black.

This dog is NOT recognized by AKC, however it is recognized by FCI, UKC and DRA.

Color

Acceptable colors are yellow with a black mask; golden red; black. White markings on the chest, feet and tip of tail are optional. Black color is still rare.

Coat

The coat is short and close-fitted with a thick undercoat.

Personality

The Broholmer is highly intelligent, naturally obedient, and generally easy to train. It is best known for its loyal and protective nature. The dog is calm, friendly and very even tempered with a watchful eye. It is one of the strongest dogs in the world and is a born guardian of the property and its family. It portrays great self-confidence, which comes from the strength it possesses. The dog is easy to train and the aim of the training is usually to achieve a packleader status as this dog is a born leader. The owner must present himself as the dog's true master other wise, this dominant dog will try to acquire the role of the packleader. The Broholmer is very calm, gentle and friendly with its family but is fearful and distrustful towards strangers. It has built-in protective instincts as the dog has been used for guarding, pulling weight, dogfights, watchdog. With proper training and socialization, the Broholmer makes an excellent family pet besides being an outstanding watch and guard dog.

Care

The short coat of this dog does not require much grooming. Weekly brushing should keep the coat clean.

Training

Main aim of training this dog is to achieve packleader status as the dog has born instinct to be the leader of its pack. It needs a firm and confident owner who can show the dog true packleader qualities. The Broholmer is generally an easy dog to train and should not pose any problems. Establishing immediate dominance, trust, and respect is key to successfully training the Broholmer. This breed requires a confident, patient, and strong handler with a stern yet gentle approach to repetitive exercises and tasks.

Activity

Not a dog for lazy owners, apartment dwellers or for indoor living, the Broholmer needs large open spaces to run and play freely. It is a high energy dog that needs lots of physical and mental activities. Ideally, the dog would be happy in a house with large open space and lots of activity to take part in. Daily walks are must as well as ample playing time.