Mike Clinton
Introduction: The Broholmer breed
The Broholmer is a large and powerful dog breed that hails from Denmark. Also known as the Danish Mastiff, it is a gentle and loyal dog that makes a great family pet. This breed is characterized by its muscular build, thick coat, and distinctive facial wrinkles.
Early Origins: The roots of the Broholmer
The Broholmer breed can be traced back to the 16th century, where it was used as a hunting and guard dog. Its ancestors were the Molossian dogs that were brought to Denmark by the Romans. The Broholmer was bred by the Danish aristocracy, who needed a strong and reliable dog to protect their estates and hunting grounds.
Danish Royalty: The Broholmer’s aristocratic past
The Broholmer was highly regarded by Danish royalty and was often featured in paintings and literature. King Frederick VII of Denmark was a big fan of the breed and kept several Broholmers on his estate. The breed was also used to guard the royal palace in Copenhagen.
Decline and Extinction: The Broholmer’s dark days
The Broholmer’s popularity declined in the early 20th century due to changes in hunting practices and the rise of industrialization. The breed almost became extinct after World War II, with only a few dogs left in existence.
The Broholmer’s Restoration: Reviving the breed
In the 1970s, a group of Danish dog enthusiasts began a breeding program to revive the Broholmer breed. They used the few remaining dogs as a foundation for the new breeding program and managed to successfully increase the breed’s numbers.
The Modern Broholmer: Standard and Appearance
The Broholmer is a large and muscular dog that can weigh up to 200 pounds. It has a short and thick coat that comes in shades of yellow and brown. The breed’s head is characterized by its wrinkles and its ears are typically floppy.
The Broholmer’s Temperament: Characteristics and Traits
The Broholmer is a calm and gentle dog that is great with children. It is also a loyal and protective breed that makes a great guard dog. The breed is known for its intelligence and trainability.
Breeding and Health: Maintaining the Broholmer
The Broholmer is a relatively healthy breed, but it is prone to hip dysplasia and other joint problems. It is important to only breed from healthy dogs to maintain the breed’s health.
The Broholmer’s Popularity Today: Around the world
The Broholmer breed is still relatively rare outside of Denmark, but it is gaining popularity in other countries. It has been recognized by several kennel clubs, including the American Kennel Club.
Conclusion: The Broholmer’s Future
The future of the Broholmer breed looks bright, with a growing number of enthusiasts around the world. However, it is important to maintain the breed’s health and genetic diversity to ensure its continued success. With its gentle nature and loyal temperament, the Broholmer is sure to remain a popular breed for many years to come.