Danish Broholmer

Breed Origin

The Broholmer is believed to have emerged in the late 1500s, around the time of the marriage between Danish King Frederick II and the daughter of Scottish King James VI. Legend has it that King James VI gifted King Frederick II with dogs that bore a resemblance to Mastiffs as a wedding present. Additionally, it is thought that Danish Vikings returned from their expeditions with similar breeds. These Mastiff-like dogs were later interbred with local canines known as Slagterhunden, or Butcher’s Dogs. The descendants of this crossbreeding, known as Old Danish Dogs, are regarded as the forebears of the Broholmer. Many in Denmark consider the Broholmer to be the authentic Great Dane, as it predates that breed. The Old Danish Dog was closely linked to the Danish aristocracy, serving as a protector of castles and estates, as well as a guardian of livestock and a hunting partner. This breed was often presented as gifts to royals and nobles throughout Europe. However, as hunting methods changed, the Old Danish Dog fell out of favor, leading to its near extinction by the mid-1800s. A Danish nobleman, Niels Frederik Sehested, took significant measures to restore the breed, instituting a rigorous breeding standard that emphasized specific traits. Thanks to his efforts, the breed began to flourish once more and garnered affection from various social strata. Sehested was also instrumental in renaming the Old Danish Dog to the Broholmer, in honor of his estate, Castle Broholm. The first Broholmer to arrive in the United States was brought by Joe and Kathy Kimmeth. The breed gained recognition from the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 2010, and in 2013, it was included in the American Kennel Club's Foundation Stock Service.

Care Routine

The Broholmer undergoes considerable seasonal shedding, losing its undercoat multiple times each year. During these intense shedding phases, consistent and thorough grooming becomes crucial. Although the Broholmer has a short coat, it features a dense undercoat. Shedding occurs throughout the year, but the volume is typically manageable, with only a few instances of more noticeable loss. It is recommended to brush the dog at least weekly, increasing to daily during peak shedding periods. For effective removal of loose fur and dead skin, a natural bristle brush or a slicker brush is ideal. Generally, the Broholmer needs to be bathed only two to three times a year; however, during heavy shedding, more frequent baths can aid in loosening the hair. When bathing, opt for a mild shampoo to avoid skin irritation. Additionally, regular nail trimming is essential to ensure the dog is comfortable with having its paws handled. As the Broholmer matures into a large breed, it is vital for it to become familiar with grooming routines, making the process easier for the owner.

Play & Exercise