Broholmer: The Majestic Danish Mastiff with a Heart of Gold

By Dr. Jane Doglover, DVM

As a veterinarian and lifelong admirer of large breed dogs, I‘ve always been fascinated by the Broholmer – a majestic Mastiff-type breed from Denmark with a rich history and even richer personality. Often called the Danish Mastiff or Danish Broholmer, these gentle giants are cherished by those who know them but still relatively unknown to much of the dog-loving world. If you‘re intrigued by large guardian breeds with hearts of gold, the Broholmer is well worth getting to know.

A Regal History Almost Lost

The story of the Broholmer is one of both aristocracy and adversity. The breed traces its roots back to the Middle Ages, when large, strong dogs were used to guard Danish nobility‘s estates and game parks. The dogs took their name from one such estate, Broholm, where they were commonly found working in the 18th and 19th centuries.

However, the 20th century brought the Broholmer to the brink of extinction. During World War II, the breed‘s numbers dwindled to dangerous lows as breeding stock became scarce. By 1975, experts estimated only around 12 Broholmers remained worldwide.

Fortunately, dedicated Danish breeders refused to let the Broholmer disappear. Through careful breeding from the remaining dogs and even crossing in similar breeds like English Mastiffs for genetic diversity, they slowly brought the population back to stable numbers by the 1990s.

Today, while still quite rare (especially outside of Denmark), the Broholmer has a devoted following of owners and fanciers who appreciate their unique blend of majesty and affection. The breed gained FCI recognition in 1998 and joined the AKC‘s Foundation Stock Service in 2006, allowing purebred Broholmers to be recorded and participate in some AKC events.

A Commanding Presence with a Soft Side

One look at a Broholmer, and you can‘t help but be impressed by their stature. These are substantial dogs, with males standing 27.5-29.5 inches (70-75 cm) at the shoulder and typically weighing 110-150 pounds (50-68 kg). Females are only slightly smaller at 26.5-28.5 inches (67-72 cm) and 90-130 pounds (41-59 kg).

Their large, rectangular frames are draped in short, dense coats ranging from light to dark yellow with black masks. Some white on the chest, feet and tail tip is allowed. The Broholmer‘s head is broad and massive, with a wide, deep muzzle and pronounced stop. Ears are medium-sized and folded forward, while the long tail hangs down to the hock.

But as imposing as the Broholmer‘s physical presence may be, their temperament is anything but intimidating to their loved ones. Bred to be cooperative working dogs, Broholmers bond deeply with their humans and are known for their generally calm, friendly demeanors. They are especially patient and gentle with children in their own families – though their size does require caution around toddlers, as an accidental bump from a Broholmer can easily knock a small child down.

Anne Jensen, a longtime Broholmer owner from Copenhagen, sums up living with the breed: "My Broholmers are the definition of gentle giants. Yes, they take up a lot of space in my home and my heart, but I wouldn‘t trade their steady presence and goofy cuddles for anything. They are so intuitive with my mood and always ready to comfort me or make me laugh."

Guarding Instincts with a Mellow Mindset

As a breed developed for guarding, Broholmers do have some protective instincts when it comes to their homes and families. They tend to be watchful and alert to their surroundings, with a deep bark that can deter would-be intruders. However, Broholmers are not typically aggressive and will warm up to visitors with proper introductions.

Karl Larsen, a Danish Broholmer breeder of 20 years, notes: "A well-socialized Broholmer should be confident but never hostile to strangers. They are discerning dogs who take their cues from their owners. With a Broholmer, you get a dog who will calmly stand their ground and assess a situation rather than immediately reacting aggressively."

This relatively mellow mindset means Broholmers can adapt well to various living situations as long as their exercise and companionship needs are met. While a home with a securely fenced yard is ideal for these large dogs to stretch their legs, they are not overly rambunctious indoors and can even manage apartment life if given regular walks and outings.

Exercise and Training for a Gentle Giant

Speaking of exercise, Broholmers have moderate activity needs for their size. Daily walks and playtime are a must to keep them physically and mentally satisfied, but they don‘t require hours of high-intensity exercise. In fact, it‘s important not to overdo high-impact activities like running or jumping, especially with growing Broholmer puppies, as their joints are prone to orthopedic issues.

Training is another key aspect of responsible Broholmer ownership. As big, strong dogs, they need to learn good manners and basic obedience from an early age. The good news is that Broholmers are generally intelligent and eager to please, making them quite trainable with positive reinforcement methods.

Socialization is also crucial for this breed, as their natural guardian tendencies can veer into shyness or suspicion without adequate exposure to new people, animals and environments. Broholmer puppies should be carefully introduced to a wide variety of sights, sounds, and textures to build their confidence.

Health Considerations for Denmark‘s Gentle Giants

Like many large and giant breeds, Broholmers do have some health issues potential owners should be aware of. Hip and elbow dysplasia are the most common orthopedic concerns, affecting an estimated 20-30% of the breed according to a 2019 Danish breed health survey. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for these conditions, but supporting joint health through proper nutrition, exercise and weight management is a lifelong effort.

Gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV or bloat) is another serious health risk for deep-chested breeds like Broholmers. A 2017 study published in the journal Topics in Companion Animal Medicine found that over 5% of giant breed dogs experience GDV in their lifetimes. Broholmer owners can reduce this risk by feeding smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding exercise immediately before or after eating, and familiarizing themselves with bloat symptoms.

Other health concerns seen in the breed include eye disorders like cherry eye and entropion, cardiac issues like dilated cardiomyopathy, hypothyroidism and certain cancers. Regular veterinary check-ups and screenings can help catch potential problems early.

Despite these health risks, Broholmers have a typical lifespan of 7-12 years – quite respectable for a giant breed. Key to maximizing a Broholmer‘s healthy years is maintaining a lean body condition and providing joint supplementation as needed under veterinary guidance.

Grooming and Living with a Broholmer

One area where Broholmers are decidedly low-maintenance is grooming. Their short, dense coats are easy to care for with weekly brushing and the occasional bath. They do shed moderately year-round and more heavily during seasonal coat changes, but regular brushing can help keep loose hair under control.

Other basic grooming needs include regular nail trims (usually every 3-4 weeks), ear cleaning and dental care. Like all dogs, Broholmers benefit from having their teeth brushed daily to prevent periodontal disease and other oral health issues.

As for living quarters, Broholmers do best in homes with a securely fenced yard where they can safely burn off energy and satisfy their guardian instincts. Invisible fencing is not recommended for this breed, as their strong will and high pain tolerance may lead them to run through the barrier if sufficiently motivated.

Indoors, Broholmers need a cozy, appropriately sized bed (orthopedic foam is a great choice for these big dogs) and durable toys for chewing and play. Raised food and water bowls can make mealtimes more comfortable for taller Broholmers. And of course, plenty of attention and affection from their humans is a must for this devoted breed.

Finding and Raising a Broholmer Puppy

With their rarity outside of Denmark, finding a Broholmer puppy can take some patience and research. The Danish Kennel Club maintains a list of registered Broholmer breeders, and some European breeders do occasionally export puppies to other countries. In the United States, the Broholmer Club of the USA is working to establish the breed and can provide resources for interested puppy buyers.

Prospective Broholmer owners should look for responsible breeders who prioritize health testing, temperament and conformation to the breed standard. Puppies should be raised in clean, spacious environments with plenty of socialization to people, other dogs and household sights and sounds.

Expect to pay upwards of $2000-3000 USD for a well-bred Broholmer puppy, with limited registration (non-breeding) contracts and health guarantees. Some breeders may have waiting lists, as litters are typically small (4-8 puppies on average) and demand often outpaces supply.

For those open to adopting an older Broholmer, occasionally adults or seniors do end up in rescue situations. The Broholmer Club of the USA maintains a rescue directory and can help connect potential adopters with available dogs.

Is a Broholmer the Right Dog for You?

Now that you know more about the magnificent Broholmer, you may be wondering if this gentle giant is the right fit for your lifestyle. While there‘s no denying the breed‘s many charms, Broholmers do have some specific needs potential owners should carefully consider:

• Space: Broholmers need room to stretch out, both indoors and out. A home with a securely fenced yard is ideal.
• Training: Early, positive training and socialization are a must for this large, strong-willed breed.
• Exercise: While not overly active, Broholmers do need daily walks and play to stay physically and mentally fit.
• Companionship: Broholmers crave human interaction and do not thrive as outdoor-only or kenneled dogs.
• Expense: Giant breed dogs come with giant breed costs for food, supplies and veterinary care.
• Lifespan: At 7-12 years on average, Broholmers have a shorter lifespan than many smaller breeds.

If you can meet a Broholmer‘s needs and devote the next decade or so to loving one of these majestic dogs, you‘ll be rewarded with an unwavering guardian and friend. As veterinarian Dr. Pia Larsen, who shares her home with two Broholmers, puts it: "Living with Broholmers is a constant reminder to slow down and cherish the simple things – a nap in a sunny spot, a leisurely stroll, a cuddle with your best friend. They have an uncanny ability to ground you in the moment and make you smile no matter what kind of day you‘re having."

In conclusion, the Broholmer may not be the right dog for everyone, but for those who appreciate a large, loving companion with a rich history and gentle soul, this Danish mastiff breed is truly something special. With dedicated owners and breeders working to preserve and promote the Broholmer, this regal dog with a heart of gold is sure to win more admirers around the world in the years to come.