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Working · Denmark

Broholmer

A walker's guide to the Broholmer: how much exercise they need, what to expect on and off the lead, and what to ask the owner before the first walk.

Giant, 40 to 70 kgEasy-goingDanish mastiffGentle giantCalmRare in UK
Exercise a day60 min plus
Energy2 of 5
Walk styleSlow, calm, heavy
With other dogsCalm and tolerant

Overview

The Broholmer is a large mastiff-type dog from Denmark, historically kept as a guard and stag-hunting dog on noble estates and named after Broholm Castle. It almost disappeared in the twentieth century and was reconstructed by Danish enthusiasts from the 1970s. It is a heavy, rectangular dog with a short yellow, red or black coat and a broad, calm face.

The breed is known for a stable, good-natured temperament. It is watchful and protective of its home but friendly once introduced, and rarely aggressive. In Britain it is very rare, so the owner will be an enthusiast with plenty to tell you.

Exercise and walking needs

Just over an hour a day in two steady walks is enough for most adults. The breed is calm and slow-moving and does not need running. It does need to get out, because heavy dogs that sit still stiffen and gain weight.

Puppies and adolescents grow for a long time. Keep their walks short and on soft ground, and avoid stairs and jumping until the owner confirms the vet is happy.

Daily minimum70 minutes
Ideal2 walks a day
Off-lead timeWith good recall

On the walk

  • Recall: Usually fine, because the dog is calm and not much interested in chasing. Keep it on lead near roads simply for the size.
  • Strength: Gentle by nature, but up to seventy kilos of it. A harness or headcollar the dog accepts, and a fixed lead, give you a chance if it does lunge.
  • Other dogs: Tolerant and relaxed. Small dogs are more at risk from a clumsy paw than from any ill intent.
  • Heat: Broad head, heavy body. Warm days need shade, water and a shorter route.

Tips for professional walkers

  1. Walk at the dog's pace and plan a route with somewhere to stop for a breather.
  2. Carry water and a bowl; a giant drinks more than you expect even after a gentle walk.
  3. Avoid steep steps and slippery surfaces, which are hard on heavy joints.
  4. Keep introductions to other dogs slow so the Broholmer's size does not alarm them.
Every dog is an individual. Treat this as a starting point and go with what the owner tells you about their dog. Anything to do with health belongs with the owner and their vet.

What to ask the owner

  • Any hip, elbow or heart concerns, and has the vet set any exercise limits?
  • How does the dog react to strangers approaching at the door and on the walk?
  • Is there a rest period around meals the owner wants kept?
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