Broholmer

In the late nineteenth century count Sehested of Broholm initiated a pure breeding programme, which led to the breed name Broholmer. The breed almost went extinct after the second world war but by mid-1970s a group of people, who were passionate about the broholmer, and the Danish Kennel Club began working together to rebuild the breed by use of a few specimens and a couple of other breeds. 

Mentality

Calm, good-natured and companionable. The breed is vigilant and can appear with great self-confidence but it is generally kind also towards strangers. It is a patient and child-loving companion- and family dog, who willingly adapt. Because of its large size, it is crucial with early socialization and sensible upbringing.

Needs

A broholmer needs a well-socialized life in close proximity to its family. This large and heavy dog need to exercise moderately whilst young and walking on staircases should generally be avoided or at least kept at a minimum.

Activity level and handler proximity

The breed is robust and enjoys being outdoors. It will happily join the family activity and exercise but often in a rather sedate pace. A broholmer is usually very closely bound to its territory and it rarely strays. It reacts well to guidance as well as instructions and it keeps fairly good contact to its owner.

Coat and grooming

The coat is short and serried with thick underfur. It sheds somewhat during both spring and autumn and a regular brush through is necessary. The reconstruction work of this breed is not yet complete. In the essence, this means thorough control of both physical and mental welfare and approved dogs must be available for breeding.

Tips and tricks for learning and handling

A well-established leadership is important with this breed, not because of its mentality but because of its size. The broholmer is a very cooperative breed can learn more or less anything as long as the method used, is based on willingness, kindness and trust. Train short and varied sequences with lots of praise.

Appearance and size

The height at the withers is approximately 75 cm for males and 70 cm for females. A Broholmer weighs 40-70 kg. The colour is yellow with black mask, titian or black preferably with white on the chest, paws and tip of the tail.

Breed registration statistics

Below you can find the registration statistics for the Broholmer in the Nordic countries from 1990 onwards.