Activities For Broholmers
Prepare for unexpected vet bills
Introduction
The Broholmer, also known as the Danish Mastiff, is a large molossor-type breed that developed in Denmark at some point in the eighteenth century. Like the Rottweilers of Germany, these large, squarely-built canines were once known as butcher’s dogs, as they were often seen guarding the doors to the butcher’s shop. While the breed was nearly demolished during World War II, a group known as The Society for Reconstruction of the Broholmer Breed began in the 1970s and was first recognized by major kennel clubs in the 2000s.
Carting
For centuries large, powerful dogs in countries all around the world have been utilized as draft animals, both for goods like milk and meat and occasionally as transportation for people as well. The practice was made illegal in many European countries due to fears of diseases like rabies, excessively heavy loads, improper practices, and poor treatment of the dogs. When properly managed, however, carting with dogs can be not only enjoyable for both you and your dog, but it can help maintain muscle mass and improve your dog’s overall cardiovascular health. While Broholmers are not traditionally drafting dogs, they are typically large and strong enough to pull carts with a calm and assured demeanor, making them an excellent candidate for this hobby.Â
Swimming
Large and giant-sized canines, such as the Broholmer, are more prone to joint problems such as hip dysplasia and arthritis than many other dog breeds. Swimming is an exercise that is beneficial in many ways, for dogs both young and old. The way that the water cradles and supports the dog’s body helps your canine companion to get a good workout while greatly reducing the pressure on the joints themselves. In many cases, this activity can not only reduce pain and suffering for dogs that have developed joint problems but also help to prevent the disorders from developing in the first place.
Rally Obedience
Broholmer breed dogs, like other guardian breed dogs, tend to be naturally independent. Due to their calm and confident temperaments, they tend to respond well to most training efforts. Rally Obedience, an emerging dog sport that combines elements of both agility training and advanced obedience training, also frequently referred to as Rally-O, is an excellent way to work your dog’s mind and body. In this sport, you and your dog work cooperatively to navigate a rally course made up of ten to twenty signs that instruct you to have your pet perform specific behaviors in a specific order. Some of the behaviors that your dog may be asked to do include turning left or right, speeding up, slowing down, as well as performing U-turns and spirals.
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Group Classes
Taking a group obedience class is particularly beneficial for these dogs when they are young as it combines much-needed socialization while training your dog to follow important obedience commands. Â
Therapy Dog Training
Although these dogs are very large, they are also known to be very calm and composed, making certain individuals superb candidates for this important canine job.
Conclusion
Broholmer breed dogs have been guarding homes and farms in Denmark for hundreds of years, and though they were almost wiped out shortly after World War II, they have started making a comeback since concerned breeders got involved in the 1970s. These large dogs need plenty of exercise and activity, but due to their large size it is important to choose exercises and activities that improve cardiovascular health and muscle strength, but that do not stress the joints, particularly before maturation at two to three years of age.Â