At a glance the quick version
Coat and looks how to spot one
short, dense
A short, close coat with an undercoat on a big, powerful mastiff frame.1
Personality what they are like
A composed, friendly giant that is sure of itself and quietly observant, alert to anything unusual without being fussy.12
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Moderate; daily walks suit it, in line with its calm companion and guard role.1
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
The short coat is easy to keep: a regular brush removes loose hair.1
Home where they are happiest
Company who they like around
A devoted family companion that likes to keep an eye on its household; good training and socialisation help it stay relaxed with visitors.12
The story where it all began
Large Danish mastiff-type dogs were used for hunting in the Middle Ages and later guarded estates and farms. In the late 1700s Chamberlain Sehested of Broholm set out to breed them to a consistent type, which gave the breed its name. After nearly disappearing following the Second World War, it was revived by enthusiasts from about 1975.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
Recognised by the official bits
- FCI
- Standard no. 315, Group 2, Section 2.1 Molossian, Mastiff type; standard dated 03.05.2025.1
- Dansk Kennel Klub
- Recognised in its home country.2
- UKC
- Recognised.2
The care rhythm Furry Diary remembers it for you
A typical home-care rhythm for a Broholmer. It is our own starting plan, not a vet's advice, and you can change every line in the app.
- Brushingevery week
- Bathevery 8 weeks
- Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
- Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
- Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
- ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
- Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
- Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 6every year
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Broholmer, and at what times?
Adult Broholmers should be fed at least two meals a day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests feeding at consistent times each day, and you can ask your vet for a schedule that suits your dog.3 Furry Diary plan
What should a Broholmer eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for its size and age. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol; always check the ASPCA list for more.4
How often should I bathe a Broholmer?
Bathing every eight weeks is a good starting plan, but at least once every three months is fine. Bathe more often if your Broholmer gets very dirty or has skin issues, and always use a dog-safe shampoo.5 Furry Diary plan
How often does a Broholmer need brushing?
A weekly brush is enough to remove loose hair from its short, dense coat. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests brushing every seven days to keep the coat healthy.1 Furry Diary plan
How do I trim a Broholmer's nails, and how often?
Trim nails about every four weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick, and ask your vet or a groomer to show you how.5 Furry Diary plan
How much exercise does a Broholmer need?
This calm giant needs moderate daily walks and playtime. Furry Diary's starting plan includes daily exercise to keep it happy and healthy.1 Furry Diary plan
How do I look after a Broholmer's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste, and check ears weekly for moisture or dirt. Furry Diary suggests daily brushing and weekly ear checks, especially since floppy ears can trap moisture.5 Furry Diary plan
How long does a Broholmer live?
Broholmers typically live between 7 and 12 years. Regular vet check-ups and good care can help them enjoy a full lifespan.2
Is a Broholmer good with children and other pets?
Yes, this composed and friendly giant is a devoted family companion and can be good with children and other pets when properly socialized. Early training helps it stay relaxed with everyone.12
Can a Broholmer be left alone?
Broholmers are devoted to their family and may not like being left alone for long periods. How well they cope varies, so ask a good breeder or vet for advice on your specific dog.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Furry Diary's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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Where this comes from
Every breed page shows where each fact comes from. If we got something wrong, sorry, we are pet people, not a science magazine. Tell us at support@furrydiary.app and we will fix it.
- FCI Standard No. 315 Broholmer fci.beused for recognition, size, weight, coat, colours, temperament, history
- Broholmer (Wikipedia) en.wikipedia.orgused for names, recognition, lifespan, history, facts
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
- ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Cat grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- RSPCA: What to feed your rabbit rspca.org.ukused for owner questions
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.