However, during scorching summertime, Swissies should stay inside, preferably underneath fans or air conditioners. Take them outside often they love to romp in water puddles and snow piles. Since they originally lived in the freezing mountainous terrains of Switzerland, Swissies developed thick double coats that easily defy the harshest winters. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Shedding and Grooming You should also meet the puppy’s parents to get a feel of how your dog’s temperament will turn out. Ideally, you should get your dog from certified breeders that consider such factors. That said, you can’t expect how your Swissy would react to smaller pets: Some Swissies will bully other animals, yet some will provide a serene environment. However, after they arrived in the US, some breeders were able to eliminate this behavior for good. Herding livestock has hardwired a strong prey drive into the Swissies’ genes. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Pet-Friendliness Swissies may not tolerate ear/tail pulling, aggressive playing, disturbing their sleep, etc. That said, you should never leave your young kids unattended with any dog breed.Īnd of course, your children must understand the proper way to treat such brawny, quick-witted dogs. Although Swissies typically mean no harm, they can easily knock over kids and small babies. Nevertheless, their muscular nature worries lots of parents. They’ll love and protect kids as if they were members of a herd. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Family-Friendliness Just like most of the other breeds, Swissys show the best temperament if you socialize them to different people, sights, and smells when they’re still puppies. Not only are they insanely cute, but they also accept training faster than adults. If you’re thinking about adoption, consider getting a puppy. When they spot something strange, they’ll instantly notify you with their loud bark, but they’ll rarely embark on aggressive behavior. Since Swissies used to herd livestock, they have impeccable alertness and observation skills, which make them excellent watchdogs. If poorly trained, Swissies will act on their own and show stubborn behavior. However, you must pay special attention to their training. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Temperament and Personalityĭespite being giant dogs, Swissies have gentle and fun personalities. If possible, try to trace your dog’s biological parents to see how many years they’ve lived your dog probably won’t steer too far from this range. Your dog may live a bit longer if you provide sufficient care and proper dieting. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: LifespanĪccording to the American Kennel Club, Swissies live between 8 and 11 years. Females don’t lie too far they measure between 23.5 and 27 inches and weigh between 85 to 110 pounds. Male dogs reach a height between 25.5 and 28.5 inches and weigh between 105 and 140 pounds. Obviously, the Swissies’ hefty physical build places them well into the giant breed category. The white markings, on the other hand, don’t exceed the chest, neck, and muzzle. Black generally dominates on the body, while brown markings prevail over the legs. Swissies have a distinctive tri-color coat that combines black, brown (or tan), and white. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Physical Characteristics This directly promoted careful breeding that brought the Swissies back to their glorious state. In 1995, the American Kennel Club officially recognized this breed. It wasn’t until the 1950s that Swissies arrived in the US. That’s why their population gradually declined until they were on the brink of extinction. ![]() As giant dogs, Swissys didn’t fit as house pets. When They Almost Went ExtinctĪfter the industrial revolution, farmers replaced dogs with more efficient, less-demanding equipment. In addition to that, they herded livestock, protected homes, and helped in the daily farm chores. ![]() Historical findings confirm that Swissies had enough stamina to haul carts loaded with milk and meat to be sold in markets. Since the Swissies excelled in terms of physical strength, farmers preferred them over the other Sennenhund breeds. This resulted in 4 closely related breeds: Appenzeller, Entlebucher, Bernese, and Greater Swiss - together, they’re known as Sennenhund breeds. Julius Caesar’s legions brought massive mastiff-like dogs, which mated with the native Alpine breeds. History will tell you the circumstances in which the Swissies developed, which indirectly details what they can and can’t do.Įxperts believe that Swissies first appeared after the Romans invaded Switzerland in 58 BC. Studying the breed history can instantly improve the way you understand dogs as intelligent as the Swissies.
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