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Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a heavy boned working breed. This native of the Swiss Alps can be easily trained.
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Physical Characteristics
- Large, strong, muscular
- Broad, deep chest
- Black nose and lips
- Almond-shaped, dark brown eyes
- Long tail is carried down
- Tri-color coat
- Medium-sized, triangular ears
- Coat: Outer hair no longer than 2 inches, lined with dense undercoat
- Height: 23.5-28.5 inches
- Weight: 130-135 pounds
- Average lifespan: 10-11 years
Temperament
- Powerful, confident, energetic, eager to please, loyal, territorial
- Interaction with people: Excellent with children
- Interaction with animals: Can be aggressive toward other dogs
- Level of attention needed: Prefers to be with people at all times
- Training: Does well with obedience training
- Bark: Vocal when provoked
- Protection: Good watchdog; very protective
Medical Conditions
- Bloat
- Epilepsy
- Female urinary incontinence
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Ophthalmic disorders (including distichiasis and entropion)
- Osteochondritis dissecans (defect in shoulder cartilage)
- Splenic torsion
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- OK for apartments if sufficiently exercised
- Needs small yard
- Needs daily, long walks
- Prefers cool climates
- Slow to mature both physically and mentally; puppyhood may last two to three years
Grooming
- Average shedder
- Needs regular brushing
Other Facts
- One of four Sennenhund breeds developed in Switzerland as herding, guard and utilitarian draft dogs
- Talents include tracking, watchdogging, carting and competitive obedience
- Instrumental in the early development of both the Saint Bernard and the Rottweiler
- Fairly rare breed
- Nicknamed "poor man's horse" because of its natural drafting ability
Breed History
- Native to the Swiss Alps
- Descended from the large mastiff-type dogs introduced to the Alpine by the ancient Romans
- Almost became extinct with the introduction of the St. Bernard; rediscovered in 1908 by Sennenhund breed authority Dr. Albert Heim
- First imported to the United States in 1967 by J. Frederick and Patricia Hoffman
- Largest (and most likely oldest) of the four Sennenhund Breeds
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit GSMDCA Rescue
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