Broholmer
A giant Danish mastiff that's surprisingly gentle and family-oriented once you get past the sheer mass. Calm indoors but watchful and territorial outside, making them a natural guard dog that actually needs minimal training to fill that role. Their lifespan is short even for a large breed, and they need experienced large-breed handling from day one.
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The Broholmer is a Danish gentle giant you’ve probably never heard of, and that’s partly the point. Bred to guard sprawling estates and take down wild boar in 19th-century Denmark, this mastiff-type dog carries himself like a stoic sentinel, but lives in the house like a couch-loving roommate who just happens to weigh up to 150 pounds. They’re part of the AKC’s Foundation Stock Service, meaning they’re rare in the U.S, and you’ll likely need to seek out a breeder in Europe or one of the few dedicated U.S, breeders.
Expect to pay between $1,500 and $4,000, and don’t expect a puppy mill, these dogs need careful breeding due to their size and health risks. Day to day, Broholmers are calm, deeply affectionate, and quietly watchful. They score a 4 out of 5 on affection, sticking close to their people without being needy.
They’re not barkers, which makes them poor alarm systems but excellent for noise-sensitive neighborhoods. Their energy level is low, they need a couple of moderate walks a day and space to stretch, so a large yard is ideal. Don’t expect a jogging partner.
They’re trainable but not eager to please like a Labrador; a 3 out of 5 on trainability means they’ll learn, but you’ll need consistency and early socialization. Grooming isn’t outrageous but is real: they shed year-round, a 3 out of 5, with heavier seasonal blows. Weekly brushing keeps it manageable, but you’ll always find hair on the couch.
Health-wise, they’re prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and heart conditions, routine screening is non-negotiable. Their lifespan is short, 8 to 10 years, so you’re committing to a large, costly, and emotionally intense chapter. They’re best for experienced owners who’ve handled big dogs before and have the space and resources to support one.
Families with kids do well with them, but supervision is key, these dogs are large enough to knock over a child by accident. First-time owners or apartment dwellers should pass. Here’s the thing most people miss: Broholmers aren’t protectors because they’re aggressive.
They’re protectors because they’re observant and deeply bonded. They won’t lunge or snarl without cause, but their sheer presence is a deterrent. That quiet confidence is what you’re really buying, calm, loyal, and unshakably present.
14 traits, at a glance.
Every breed on PuppyBase is rated across the 14 trait dimensions the American Kennel Club publishes — from trainability to drooling level. The higher the score, the better the fit for that trait.
What to expect day-to-day
Things to screen for
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Bloat (GDV)
- Heart disease
- Obesity
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Common questions
How long do Broholmers live?
Broholmers typically live between 8 and 10 years, which is shorter than average even for giant breeds.
How much does a Broholmer puppy cost?
A Broholmer puppy usually costs between $2,000 and $4,000, with an average price around $3,000.
How much do Broholmers shed?
Broholmers shed moderately year-round and will need regular brushing to manage loose hair.
What colors do Broholmers come in?
Broholmers come in yellow with a black mask, golden red, or solid black.
How big do Broholmers get?
Broholmers are giant dogs, standing 27.5 to 29.5 inches tall and weighing between 90 and 150 pounds.
Are Broholmers smart?
Broholmers have moderate trainability and learn best with consistent, patient handling, but they aren’t among the most driven or quick-learning working breeds.
Are Broholmers hypoallergenic?
No, Broholmers are not hypoallergenic and their shedding makes them unsuitable for allergy sufferers.
Are Broholmers aggressive?
Broholmers are not inherently aggressive, but they are watchful and protective, which can make them reserved or cautious around strangers.
What health problems are common in Broholmers?
Common health issues include hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, heart disease, and obesity, all of which require proactive management.
Do Broholmers bark a lot?
No, Broholmers bark very infrequently, but they rely on their size and presence as a deterrent, making them quiet yet effective watchdogs.
Are Broholmers easy to train?
Broholmers are moderately trainable, but their size and strength mean they need experienced handling from puppyhood to ensure reliable obedience.
Are Broholmers good family dogs?
Yes, Broholmers are loving and gentle with their families and can be good with children, though supervision is wise due to their large size.
Are Broholmers good with cats?
Broholmers have moderate compatibility with other pets, including cats, especially when raised together, but their prey drive can vary.
Are Broholmers good guard dogs?
Yes, Broholmers were bred to guard estates and are naturally watchful and protective, making them excellent, low-maintenance guard dogs.
Can Broholmers live in apartments?
No, Broholmers are not suited for apartment living due to their massive size and need for space, even though they have low energy levels.
Are Broholmers good first dogs?
No, Broholmers are not recommended for first-time dog owners because of their size, strength, and need for experienced handling.
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