Broholmer
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The Broholmer, originating from Denmark, is a calm, good-natured, and confident breed that is excellent for families. It’s a large, mastiff-type dog known for its agility and love of activities like fetching and frisbee.
Despite its size, the Broholmer, once called “the butcher’s dog,” is incredibly gentle, especially with children and other dogs. It’s perfect for someone looking for a loyal companion who can act as a guard dog.
Breed Overview
Height
27.5 – 29.5 inches
Weight
90 – 150 pounds
Lifespan
8 – 10 years
Colors
brown, tan, white
Suitable for
Families with large homes
Temperament
Friendly, watchful, affectionate
Height
27.5 – 29.5 inches
Weight
90 – 150 pounds
Lifespan
8 – 10 years
Colors
brown, tan, white
Suitable for
Families with large homes
Temperament
Friendly, watchful, affectionate
The Broholmer is a large, mastiff-type breed from Denmark with a muscular build and a short coat. They are calm, friendly, protective, and easy to train. Regular exercise and early socialization are essential for their well-being.
Characteristics
Energy
Health
Sociability
Trainability
Lifespan
Health Conditions
Broholmers, being a large breed, can have certain health issues. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to catch any problems early. Proper diet and exercise can help manage their weight, reducing the risk of joint problems. Regular grooming and dental care are also essential to keep them healthy. Vaccinations and parasite control are vital for preventing diseases. Finally, be aware of any signs of discomfort or pain. Always consult a veterinarian if you notice anything unusual.
Minor Conditions
- Elbow Dysplasia
Serious Conditions
- Bloat
- Hip Dysplasia
Broholmer Puppies
Broholmer puppies are a rare and charming breed known for their large size and gentle demeanor. With their adorable wrinkled faces and strong bodies, they are playful and affectionate, forming strong bonds with their families.
As they mature, Broholmer puppies become calm and confident adults. They thrive with regular exercise and mental stimulation, making them great companions. Their protective instincts make them excellent watchdogs, while their gentle nature allows them to be good with children and other pets. Overall, they are loving, loyal, and intelligent dogs.
Temperament & Intelligence Of The Broholmer
Broholmers are known for their calm and friendly demeanor, making great companions but wary of strangers without early socialization. They’re closely bonded with their family, preferring the outdoors due to their need for space.
Starting training early makes a Broholmer easy to train, responding well to consistent methods. Their intelligence and protective nature, paired with proper training, make them excellent guard dogs and quick learners of various commands.
Are These Dogs Good For Families?
The Broholmer is an excellent family dog known for its friendly, calm nature and strong protective instincts. This breed enjoys children’s company and typically exhibits calm behavior, seldom barking excessively. Their alertness towards strangers also enhances home security.
However, the Broholmer’s large size requires cautious supervision around small children to avoid accidental injuries. These dogs are best suited to homes with spacious yards, allowing them the freedom to explore and maintain their health through moderate activity levels.
Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?
The Broholmer is known for its calm nature and is not easily bothered by other dogs or cats. When socialized from an early age, these dogs can become good friends with other household pets. They often treat them like family, showing affection by sleeping beside them and engaging in friendly play.
Broholmers are not territorial and do not show aggression, even when another dog threatens them. This makes them an excellent choice for multi-pet households.
Food & Diet Requirements
Broholmers are a large breed requiring a carefully considered diet to avoid unnecessary weight gain due to their low activity levels. Selecting high-quality dog food with real meat, like chicken or turkey, is essential as the primary ingredient. Avoid foods with corn or soy, which lack significant nutritional value.
Incorporating omega fatty acids into their diet can promote a shinier coat and reduce inflammation. Always heed the recommended portion sizes to prevent obesity, a common issue in large breeds. A balanced mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, along with advice from your veterinarian, will ensure your Broholmer remains healthy and vibrant.
Exercise
Broholmers are dogs with moderate energy levels. They thrive on daily exercise without the need for intense activities. A 30-minute walk each day is ample to keep them fit and healthy. Walking and hiking are their preferred activities, and engaging in tug-of-war or roughhousing offers mental and physical stimulation.
While playing fetch can be enjoyable, avoiding excessive jumping is essential due to the breed’s heavy build, which could lead to joint issues. Integrating various activities ensures a well-rounded lifestyle, helping maintain their weight and ward off boredom-related behaviors.
Training
Successful training of a Broholmer requires both consistency and patience, especially as they can be intelligent yet stubborn. Starting training early and keeping sessions short and at regular times aids in creating a positive routine. Employ positive reinforcement, rewarding good behavior with treats and praise while avoiding negative reactions to mistakes to maintain motivation.
Owners should know the Broholmer’s potential to use its size to assert dominance over family members. Establishing leadership and clear boundaries is essential for managing this behavior and ensuring a well-behaved and harmonious pet.
Grooming
The Broholmer breed has a dense coat that sheds moderately, requiring brushing once or twice weekly. In spring and fall, the shedding increases, making daily brushing necessary. Regularly maintaining their dental health to avoid decay is also essential.
Additionally, their nails clicking on hard surfaces indicates the need for a trim to ensure comfortable walking. Keeping up with these grooming practices helps maintain the overall well-being of your Broholmer, making them happy and healthy.
Male Vs. Female
Male Broholmers are typically taller and heavier than females. Males are more robust, while females are generally more petite. Both sexes share a similar temperament, exhibiting the Broholmer breed’s calmness, protectiveness, and loyalty characteristics.
Fact #1: The Broholmer Has Different Names
The Broholmer is known by several names, reflecting its rich heritage and versatility. One common name is the Danish Mastiff, emphasizing its origin and strength. Another frequently used name is the Danish Broholmer, which pays homage to its roots in Denmark.
These names are often used interchangeably. Despite the different names, they all refer to the same loyal and powerful breed.
Fact #2: Broholmers Have Been Around Since The Middle Ages
Broholmers have a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. They were initially used for stag-hunting. Over time, their role evolved, and they became esteemed guard dogs, protecting large farms and manors.
In the late 18th century, Count Sehested of Broholm played a crucial role in breeding these dogs. His efforts significantly increased their population and solidified their lineage. The breed’s name, Broholmer, is a tribute to Count Sehested and his contributions. This noble history is reflected in the breed’s strong and dignified presence.
Fact #3: Broholmers Only Came to the USA in 2009
Before 2009, Broholmers were primarily found in Denmark and a few European countries. The breed’s entry into the United States came in June 2009, thanks to Joe and Kathy Kimmeth of the Broholmer Club of the USA. They imported the first Broholmer, a dog named Honor, marking the breed’s official debut in the U.S. Since their introduction, Broholmer has caught the attention of numerous dog enthusiasts, rapidly growing in popularity due to their unique characteristics.
The Broholmer Club of the USA has been instrumental in promoting and preserving the breed. Their efforts have significantly increased public awareness of the Broholmer’s qualities. As a result, the population of Broholmers in the United States has risen noticeably. Today, many American dog lovers recognize and appreciate the breed for its distinct traits and contributions to the diversity of dogs in the country.
Final Thoughts
The Broholmer is excellent for families familiar with large and headstrong dogs. It exhibits a calm, friendly, and affectionate nature, making it a fantastic companion for children and other pets.
Enlisting a professional trainer can benefit those new to the breed or large dogs in general. This will ensure the dog receives proper guidance and training from an early age. This breed thrives in a loving environment. Adequate training helps bring out its best qualities, making it a loyal and loving family member.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average weight range for a Broholmer?
Broholmers typically weigh between 90 and 150 pounds. Males tend to be on the heavier side of the spectrum compared to females.
What personality traits are typically seen in Broholmers?
Broholmers are known for their loyalty and calm nature. They are friendly, good with children, and often exhibit protective behaviors toward their families.
How long do Broholmers generally live?
The average lifespan of a Broholmer is 7 to 12 years. Diet, exercise, and overall health can influence their longevity.
What are the standard size dimensions of a Broholmer?
Broholmers usually stand between 27.5 to 29.5 inches tall at the shoulder. Their muscular build adds to their impressive stature.
What variety of colors do Broholmers come in?
Broholmers come in various colors, including golden, red, and black. Each dog might have slight variations in shade and markings.
How often do Broholmers require grooming?
Broholmers have a short, dense coat that requires regular brushing. Typically, you should groom them once a week to minimize shedding and maintain coat health.
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