Broholmer
Quick Summary
Gentle giant with protective instincts, ideal for experienced owners with space. Key considerations include size management, training commitment, and exercise needs.
Contents
Weight Range
90-150 lbs
♂ Male: 90-150 lbs
♀ Female: 90-150 lbs
Height Range
70-75 inches
♂ Male: 28-30"
♀ Female: 28-30"
Life Expectancy
8-10 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #65
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Foundation Stock Service
Originally bred for Danish mastiff-type dogs emerged in the 18th century, serving as estate guardians and hunting companions for nobility
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 27.5"-29.5" |
| Female Height | 27.5"-29.5" |
| Male Weight | 90-150 lbs |
| Female Weight | 90-150 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 3/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $2000-3000 for purchase, plus setup expenses. Monthly costs average $150-200 for food and basic care. Healthcare costs can be significant due to size and potential health issues.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Known for their calm and steady temperament, Broholmers combine watchful guardian instincts with gentle family devotion. They display moderate energy levels and excellent social behavior with proper training, though they may be reserved with strangers.
Social Needs
Broholmers form strong bonds with family and require regular interaction. They generally get along well with other dogs when properly socialized. Can handle moderate alone time but prefer company.
Breed Overview
Majestic and powerful, the Broholmer exhibits a distinctive blend of strength and gentleness. Standing tall with a broad chest and muscular build, these dogs feature a short, dense coat in fawn or golden-red with a black mask. Their calm demeanor and watchful nature make them excellent guardians, while maintaining a loving disposition towards family members.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Loyal family companion
- ✓ Excellent guardian
- ✓ Gentle with family
- ✓ Low barking tendency
Cons
- ✗ Requires spacious living area
- ✗ Heavy drooler
- ✗ Not suitable for novice owners
- ✗ Significant food costs
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Friendly, Watchful, Loving |
| Energy Level | Calm |
| Trainability | |
| Grooming Needs | Occasional Bath/Brush |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise, including moderate walks and light play sessions. Activity intensity should be kept moderate, with focus on consistent rather than vigorous exercise. Suitable activities include walking, hiking, and controlled play.
Diet & Nutrition
Adult Broholmers require 4-6 cups of high-quality food daily, divided into 2-3 meals. Special attention needed for portion control to prevent obesity. Dietary requirements vary based on age, activity level, and health status.
Feed 4-6 cups of premium large-breed dog food daily, divided into 2-3 meals. Consider age-specific formulas and monitor weight carefully. Fresh water should always be available.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Best suited for homes with ample space and a fenced yard. Thrives in suburban or rural settings. While adaptable to various climates, they prefer moderate temperatures and need indoor access.
Requires minimum yard space of 500 square feet. Ideal setting includes secure fencing and indoor-outdoor access. Adapts well to various living situations provided they have adequate space.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Danish nobility developed the Broholmer in the 18th century as a prestigious estate guardian. The breed nearly faced extinction after World War II but was revived through dedicated breeding efforts in the 1970s.
Historical Purpose
Danish mastiff-type dogs emerged in the 18th century, serving as estate guardians and hunting companions for nobility. Their primary role involved protecting large properties and livestock.
Fun Fact
Despite their imposing size, Broholmers were known as 'gentle giants' among Danish nobility.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular grooming despite short coat, moderate exercise requirements despite size, and attention to potential joint issues due to large breed status.