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Broholmer

Illustration courtesy of the Swedish Kennel Club

The Broholmer, also known as the Danish Mastiff, is a large and imposing guardian breed with a gentle heart. Originally bred for guarding estates and livestock, the Broholmer combines strength, loyalty, and intelligence. This breed is known for its calm nature, making it a cherished companion and protector in the home.

Fun Fact

Sort of like Queen Elizabeth and her Corgis, Broholmers were the favored breed of King Frederick VII, King of Denmark from 1906-1912. The King owned several of them and they can often been found in royal portraits of the King and his consort, Countess Danner.

  • History and origin
    The Broholmer’s origins can be traced back to Denmark, where it was bred to be a guard dog for estates, farms, and livestock. Its roots lie in crosses between mastiff-type breeds and other large guardian dogs, such as the Old Danish Mastiff and the Rottweiler. The breed’s primary role was to guard property and livestock, often working independently but always alert and protective. Once nearing extinction in the 19th century, the Broholmer was revived in Denmark through careful breeding programs. Today, the breed is cherished not only for its guarding abilities but also for its sweet nature and loyalty to its family.

  • Appearance
    The Broholmer is a large, well-muscled breed with a commanding presence and noble appearance. Its broad head is square-shaped with a pronounced stop, featuring a strong, well-defined muzzle and dark, expressive eyes that convey intelligence and alertness. The ears are medium-sized, set high, and typically hang close to the cheeks. The Broholmer’s body is solid and muscular, with a broad chest, deep ribcage, and a strong, powerful neck. Its short coat is dense and lies flat, usually in shades of fawn or yellow, with darker markings on the muzzle, ears, and sometimes along the back. The breed’s tail is thick at the base, tapering slightly toward the end, and often carried in a gentle curve.

  • Temperament and personality
    The Broholmer is a gentle giant, known for its calm demeanor and devotion to its family. While it may initially appear intimidating due to its large size and protective instincts, it is typically very affectionate with its loved ones, including children. This breed is protective by nature, making it an excellent watchdog and family guardian.  Broholmers are also intelligent, though their independent nature can make training a bit challenging. They are best suited to homes with experience handling large breeds and owners who can provide consistent training and early socialization. Although they enjoy their time with the family, Broholmers are also a working breed and need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Daily walks and play sessions are ideal for this large dog. They also benefit from mental stimulation, such as obedience training or puzzle games. While they may not require the same level of intense exercise as some other large breeds, they do thrive in homes that can provide a mix of physical and cognitive challenges.

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