Great Swiss Mountain Dog

The Great (or Greater) Swiss Mountain Dog, or the Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund, also affectionately known as the Swissy, is the largest of the four breeds known as the Swiss Sennenhunde (the other three are the Bernese Mountain Dog, the Appenzeller, and the Entlebucher). This powerful and sturdy dog dates back to the fourth century as a cart puller on Swiss farms, and probably goes back to the ancient Tibetan Mastiffs. Besides being a cart puller, these dogs also became proficient at driving cattle which is why they are sometimes called the Great Swiss Cattledog. They were also known as butchers' dogs. And among their other duties, they also were loyal family guardians. They were nearly extinct in the mid-1800's, but were crossed with the smooth St Bernard and became established again. When they were first shown in a Swiss show in 1908, they were referred to as short-haired Bernese Mountain Dogs. They were recognized as a distinct breed and entered in the Swiss Stud Book as Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund in 1909.

Height: 23.5 - 28.5" (59.7 - 72.4cm)

Weight: 120 - 135 lbs (53.6 - 60.3 kg)

Coat Type: The smooth double coat consists of a medium-length outer coat and a thick dense undercoat. It only requires minimal grooming. The tricolor is made of the main black color, with symmetrical tan and white markings.

Temperament: The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a even-tempered, calm dog that tends to be very obedient. This fearless dog is alert and confident, and makes a devoted family dog.

Health Problems: The problems that are of concern include Hip Dysplasia, Bloat and Epilepsy.

Special Interest: The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is known to have been around in the time of Julius Caesar, accompanying families on their travels.

They were used by the Swiss Army as carrier and draught dogs during WWII.

Classifications:
AKC: Group 3 - Working Dogs
CKC: Group 8 - Miscellaneous Class
KC: Not recognized
FCI: Group 2
ANKC: Not recognized