Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Vital Statistics:

Place of Origin: Switzerland

Group: Working dog

Height: males 26-29 in., females 24-28 in.

Weight: males 110-140 lbs., females 90-120 lbs.

Life span: 10-12 yrs.

Trainability: high

Good with children: yes

Good with other pets: yes

What is the origin of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog?

There are different theories as to the origin of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog.. Their ancestry can be traced back to the Molossers, which may have been brought to Switzerland in the firsdt century B.C. by the Romans. Or Phoeniocian traders may have brought them centuries earlier. In any case, they bred with native dogs to produce the GSMD. They are one of 4 breeds known as Sennenhunds. The others are the Bernese Mountain Dog, Appenzeller and Eitlebucher Mountain Dog. The word Senner refers to dairymen and herders in the Swiss Alps. Other names for the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog are Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund, Grand Bouview Suisse and Swissy.

What does the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog look like?

The Swissy is a large and muscular dog. Males are 26-29 inches tall and weigh about 110-140 lbs. Females are 24-28 inches tall and weigh 90-120 lbs. EArs are medium size, triangular and folded over, rounded at the tips. Eyes are almond-shaped and dark brown. The nose is black. The coat is double and thick. Colors are black with rust and white markings. Rust is ver each eye, each cheek, undersides of ears, both sides of chest, all the legs and underneath tail. There is a white blaze on the head and muzzle which may extend to a white collar. There is white on the chest, throat, feet and tail tip. Coat should be brushed once a week, more often during shedding.

What is the temperament of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog?

The Swissy enjoys being a member of the family. They are very loyal and protective. Their bark and appearance is enough to scare off intruders, but they are not aggressive. They are eager to please and should have early obedience training and socialization. The Swissy is very good with children. They get along with other dogs and other pets. They will accept strangers that the family is comfortable with. Because thkey don’t require much exercise besides a daily walk or run, they can be comfortable living in an apartment.

What is the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog used for?

The Swissy is a good watchdog. They enjoy hiking and backpacking with the family. They participate in carting, herding, weight pulling and obedience trials. And they are loyal, loving family companions.

Possible Health Issues

Hip/elbow dysplasia, bloat/gastric torsion, panosteitis, osteochondritis dissecans, distichsasis.