Discover The Mighty Great Swiss Mountain Dog: Facts & Traits
Are you searching for a canine companion that embodies both imposing strength and gentle affection? The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, the largest of the Swiss Mountain Dog breeds, may be the perfect fit, offering a unique blend of power, loyalty, and a heartwarming temperament.
Slightly resembling the Bernese Mountain Dog, the Greater Swiss distinguishes itself with a shorter coat and, on average, a larger build. This breed, originating from Switzerland, is a true giant, often mistaken for its Bernese cousin. However, its shorter coat and robust physique set it apart. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog's history is rooted in centuries past when they served as working dogs in the mountainous regions of Switzerland, proving their worth as versatile helpers.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Origin | Switzerland |
| Group | Group 2: Pinscher and Schnauzer type - Molossoid breeds - Swiss Mountain Dogs |
| Size | Large |
| Height | Males: 25.5-28.5 inches (65-72 cm); Females: 23.5-27 inches (60-68.5 cm) |
| Weight | Males: 85-140 pounds (38-63 kg); Females: 85-110 pounds (38-50 kg) |
| Coat | Short, double coat |
| Color | Tri-color: Black, white, and rust |
| Temperament | Friendly, good-natured, devoted, confident, and watchful |
| Lifespan | 8-10 years |
| Grooming | Moderate; regular brushing |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate; daily walks and playtime |
| Training | Responsive to positive reinforcement; early socialization is key |
| Health Considerations | Potential for bloat, hip dysplasia, and other breed-specific health issues |
| AKC Recognition | 1995 |
| Reference Website | American Kennel Club - Greater Swiss Mountain Dog |
These dogs are renowned for their impressive size and affectionate nature. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog's history dates back centuries, when they were employed as working dogs in the mountainous regions of Switzerland. Originally used as guard and draft dogs, they have evolved into companions, protectors, and cherished family members. This breed's versatility is a testament to its adaptability and enduring appeal.
If you provide your Greater Swiss Mountain Dog with adequate attention and protection, you will be rewarded with an incredibly loyal and well-tempered dog. Despite the reputation of being "stubborn," the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a gentle-pawed friend who stands by their humans through thick and thin. They are known to be gentle and kind to everyone, displaying curiosity, a proactive nature, and a playful spirit.
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is recognized by the Fdration Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and is classified in Group 2: Pinscher and Schnauzer type, Molossoid breeds, and Swiss Mountain Dogs. This classification underscores its historical role and its connection to other breeds of the Swiss Alps. It's the largest of the mountain dogs, always recognized by dog owners as a faithful companion with the skills of a working dog. They are a dog of large size and a rustic appearance that loves to be in the midst of family and other animals, making them ideal companions for those who enjoy an active lifestyle.
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog's imposing size is coupled with a loving heart, a faithful life companion that never hesitates to express all its love and joy of life. They are ideal as companions for children, with whom they love to play, and are also well-suited to those accustomed to encountering many people. These dogs do not disdain walks, games, and outdoor activities, which are important for their physical and behavioral well-being. The standard was first published by the FCI.
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, also known as "Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund," belongs to one of the four varieties of Swiss Mountain Dogs. In the mountainous regions of the country, the dogs were particularly appreciated for their strength and endurance, qualities that were very important in Swiss agricultural environments. The dogs were essential in guarding stables and herds. The breeds nature is known to be friendly and affectionate, calm, and composed.
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a large dog in the truest sense of the word; well-developed and with a bearing that, if possible, makes it appear even larger. The ears are triangular and pendulous. The limbs, muscular and robust, are perfectly balanced. The tail is never curled, but falls naturally. Their short coat is articulated on three colors: the base color of the coat is black, with symmetrical white spots on the muzzle, legs, chest, and tip of the tail; reddish tan is present between the white and black, especially above the eyes.
In 1909, they were recognized by the SCS as a breed in its own right and entered in Volume 12 (1909) of the Swiss Origin Book (LOS). In 1912, the "Swiss Club of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog" was created with the aim of promoting the breeding of this dog as a pure breed. In the beginning, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog was so closely related to the St. Bernard that any puppy of the Greater Swiss that was born with red and white spots was considered a St. Bernard. This continued until Heim and members of the Swiss Kennel Club standardized the four breeds of Swiss Mountain Dogs in the early 1900s. Before this breed, we had bred the long-haired cousin, the Bernese Mountain Dog, for several years. Now as then, the goal is to continue the adventure by making very few litters and reproducing with great care based on health, beauty, and character, keeping the balance of mothers and puppies as a priority, working competently on their sensitive periods.
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is an intelligent and eager-to-please breed that responds well to positive reinforcement training methods. Early training, socialization, and consistent rules and boundaries are essential to developing a well-behaved adult dog. The breed has a relatively new history, fully recognized by the AKC in 1995. Furthermore, The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog can be subject to stomach torsion, but as a breed, it is considered one of those that often and willingly enjoy excellent health.
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a faithful companion for the whole family. This dog breed not only attracts attention because of its size and imposing appearance, but also strikes because of its friendly and affectionate nature and its calm and composure. With its balanced personality, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is ideal as a family dog. They are always reliable and incorruptible.
