Discover The Grand Bouvier Suisse: Gentle Giant & Family Dog | Learn More!
Could a gentle giant truly capture your heart, offering both unwavering loyalty and a touch of Swiss heritage? The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, a breed steeped in history and known for its striking appearance and amiable nature, is more than just a dog; it's a testament to the enduring bond between humans and canines.
Originating in the Swiss Alps, these dogs were initially bred for farm work, assisting with tasks like herding livestock and pulling carts. Their strength, coupled with their intelligence, made them invaluable companions to the farmers and families of the region. Over time, they transitioned from primarily working dogs to cherished family members, adapting seamlessly to the role of loyal confidantes and playful companions.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Name: | Greater Swiss Mountain Dog (Grand Bouvier Suisse) |
| Origin: | Swiss Alps, Switzerland |
| Other Names: | Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund |
| Size: | Large. Males: 25.5-28.5 inches (65-72 cm), Females: 23.5-26.5 inches (60-68 cm) |
| Weight: | Males: 85-140 pounds (38-63 kg), Females: 85-110 pounds (38-50 kg) |
| Coat: | Double coat, tri-colored (black, white, and rust) |
| Temperament: | Calm, gentle, friendly, loyal, intelligent, confident |
| Lifespan: | 8-11 years |
| Purpose: | Historically: Farm work, cart pulling, livestock herding. Currently: Companion, family dog, draft work, carting. |
| Training: | Needs early socialization and consistent training. Responds well to positive reinforcement. |
| Exercise: | Moderate exercise needs, daily walks, and play are essential. |
| Grooming: | Regular brushing to manage shedding, especially during seasonal changes. |
| Health: | Prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, bloat, and osteosarcoma. Regular veterinary checkups are important. |
| Reference: | American Kennel Club |
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, or Grand Bouvier Suisse in French, is a breed that truly appreciates understanding what is expected of them. Their intelligence is a key feature; they benefit greatly from clear and consistent training, and thrive on collaboration with their owners. They want to learn and will respond well when they know there's a benefit for them to comply with your requests.
Their physical characteristics are striking. They possess small, keen eyes, typically a dark brown. Their ears, shaped like a "V," hang down along the sides of their skull. Unlike some other Swiss Mountain Dog breeds, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog often has its tail docked, usually shortly after birth. They are a large breed, with males standing between 65 and 72 cm and weighing up to 60 kg, and females measuring between 60 and 68 cm. These dogs are robust, with a powerful bone structure and well-developed musculature, a testament to their working heritage.
The history of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is interwoven with the rural traditions of Switzerland. Around 1900, farm dogs with similar characteristics of size, temperament, and form, could be found on many farms in the Bernese plateau, Emmental, and pre-Alps. These dogs were valuable for a variety of tasks. They often guarded farms and property. They were also used to pull carts, transporting goods to and from markets and helping with farm work. And they were reliable companions, sharing the lives of the families who owned them.
This Swiss Mountain Dog is always attentive to the commands of their owner. Their amazing intelligence and sensitivity allow them to behave according to the desires of their masters. Both the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog and the Bernese Mountain Dog share a similar morphology, characterized by heavy bones and powerful muscles. Their coats display a beautiful mix of black, white, and rust, with similar markings and a white "flame" extending from the nose to the forehead. However, it is important to note that the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has a shorter coat than the Bernese Mountain Dog.
The breed's adaptability is a key to their success. Initially bred for work, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has seamlessly transitioned into the role of a beloved family member. Their calm demeanor and inherent loyalty make them wonderful companions, and their intelligence means they are usually eager to please their owners.
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, a relatively rare and stunning breed, is known for its closeness to family and owners. Selected in the Swiss Alps, they are powerful dogs of imposing stature. They were used to pull carts filled with farm products and to guard cattle herds. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a working dog breed that loves to pull, ideal for mountain walks, with a sports harness. Their versatility is impressive, excelling not only as family pets but also in various dog sports and activities.
For those considering welcoming a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog into their home, responsible breeding is paramount. Look for breeders committed to the health and well-being of their dogs, prioritizing proper socialization and health screenings. Research breeders thoroughly, visit their facilities if possible, and ask questions about the dogs' lineage and temperament. A reputable breeder will be transparent and happy to provide information.
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is robust and well-muscled. The head, in relation to the body, is also sturdy. It has three colors and straight hair, it carries its tail low to the hock. They possess good temperament, endurance and flexibility. Their calm temperament and perfect self-control make them excellent cattle drivers, but they are disadvantaged by their size and weight.
In 1909, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog was finally recognized as a distinct breed by the Swiss Kennel Club and registered in Volume 12 of the Swiss Book of Origins the same year. A breeding program was established in 1912 by the Swiss Club of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. The French Association of Swiss Mountain Dogs (AFBS) is the club of four breeds: Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, Appenzell Mountain Dog, Entlebuch Mountain Dog, and Bernese Mountain Dog. The AFBS is conducting a dynamic policy around the improvement of these 4 breeds. Thus, it has set up a breeding charter that breeders are invited to sign. The breed's recognition and the establishment of breed-specific clubs were crucial steps in preserving and promoting the breed's unique characteristics.
This Swiss Mountain Dog will always enjoy responding to their master's commands with the utmost complicity. Extremely faithful, they never stray too far from their master and will return at the first call or at the first movement of their master. Their loyalty is unwavering. They form deep bonds with their families and thrive on companionship, making them excellent pets for those who can provide the love and attention they crave.
The purchase price of a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog registered with the LOF (Livre des Origines Franaises) is between 1100 and 1800 euros. The price of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog depends on their age at the time of purchase. A Greater Swiss Mountain Dog puppy will cost more than an adult. The cost of acquiring a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog reflects the investment in the breed's health, pedigree, and the breeder's expertise. It's essential to consider not just the initial price, but also the ongoing costs of care, including food, vet bills, and grooming.
Do you want to know more about the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog? They have a calm temperament and a strong build. Strangers, a noisy school class, barking dogs or a tractor that emits bad odors can do nothing against their balanced temperament. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a truly versatile breed. Whether it's a bustling household or a quiet country life, these dogs can adapt to their environments. Their inherent adaptability and willingness to learn make them a great choice for families of all shapes and sizes.
The origins of the Bernese Mountain Dog are distant: the ancestors of the breed developed in the Bern region of Switzerland, hence its name! The Bernese Mountain Dog is famous for its affectionate, sociable and gentle character. Both the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog and the Bernese Mountain Dog share a similar historical background, originating in the Swiss Alps and used for farm work. The care and socialization during the early stages of a puppy's life have a great impact on the development of the dog. A well-socialized dog is typically better behaved and better able to handle new and stressful situations.
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a breed that is known for its ability to form deep bonds with its owners. They thrive on interaction and are happiest when included as a part of their family. This breed does best in environments where they receive plenty of attention and opportunities for interaction, whether that's through play, training, or just spending time together.
These dogs need owners who are patient, consistent, and dedicated to positive reinforcement. They are intelligent, but their independent nature means they require a firm but gentle approach to training. Early socialization is vital to ensure they grow into well-adjusted adults who can handle various situations with ease. Positive training methods, such as rewarding good behavior, are usually more effective than punishment.
Consider the exercise needs of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. They have moderate exercise needs and benefit from daily walks and play sessions. They also enjoy activities that allow them to use their working heritage, such as carting or weight pulling. Providing mental stimulation is also important, such as puzzles or interactive games.
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a breed that embodies both strength and gentleness. They offer unwavering loyalty, intelligence, and a calm, adaptable nature. By providing proper training, socialization, and a loving home, you can enjoy the unique joys of sharing your life with this beautiful breed, continuing a legacy that began in the Swiss Alps and continues to bring joy to families worldwide.
