Broholmer
Photo: Thrudgelmir, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Broholmer

Also known as Danish Mastiff, Danish Broholmer

Mastiff & Mountain Giant Denmark

A large, mastiff-type Danish guardian with a calm, watchful nature. Once a guard dog of wealthy estates, it returned from near extinction in the 1970s.

Height
70–75 cm
Weight
41–68 kg
Life expectancy
7–12 years
Origin
Denmark
Coat
Short, harsh
FCI
Group 2, standard no. 315
  • Calm
  • Good-natured
  • Watchful
  • Powerful
  • Friendly

At a glance

Overview

The Broholmer is a large Danish mastiff, strongly built with a massive head and a loud bark. A well-trained dog is calm, good-tempered and friendly, yet watchful towards strangers.

It was used as a guard dog on the estates of the wealthy.

History

The breed was employed as a guard dog in wealthy households. Its numbers fell severely during World War II, but it made a successful return in the 1970s.

It is recognised by the Danish Kennel Club and the FCI.

Appearance

A square-to-rectangular, powerful dog with a large, massive head. Females stand about 70 cm and males about 75 cm. The coat is short and harsh, light or brownish yellow, or black, sometimes with a black mask.

Temperament

A calm, good-tempered dog that is friendly with family and watchful with strangers. Its impressive bark and dominant walk make it a natural guardian.

Care and exercise

It needs room, firm and kind training, and early socialisation. Exercise should be moderate, and coat care is simple.

Health

Degenerative myelopathy, a spinal cord disorder, has been found in imported dogs, so buyers should choose dogs from breeders approved by the Danish breed club.

More mastiff & mountain breeds