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Dog Breed

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Breed Overview

Breed Name: Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Origin: Switzerland

Breed Group: Working

Physical Characteristics

Size: Large to Giant

Height: Male: 25.5–28.5 inches (65–72 cm); Female: 23.5–27 inches (60–69 cm)

Weight: Male: 105–140 lbs (48–64 kg), Female: 85–110 lbs (39–50 kg)

Coat Type: Short, dense double coat

Coat Colors: Tricolor – black with symmetrical rust and white markings

Grooming Needs: Low to Moderate (weekly brushing)

Shedding: Moderate to High (seasonal)

Behavioral Traits

Temperament: Loyal, gentle, confident, alert, calm

Intelligence Level: Moderate to High

Energy Level: Moderate

Health Information

Lifespan: 8–11 years

Common Health Issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, osteochondrosis, epilepsy

Care

Nutrition Needs: High-quality large or giant breed diet; meals should be split to reduce risk of bloat

Exercise Needs: Moderate – needs daily walks and playtime but not overly energetic

Space Requirements: Best with a yard or rural space; not suited to apartment life

Noise Sensitivity: Low

Socialization and Training

Socialization Needs: High

Socialization Tips: Intelligent and willing, but needs firm, patient, and positive training from an early age

Good with Children: Yes, generally sociable and stable

Good with Other Dogs: Yes, generally sociable and stable

Good with Other Pets: Yes, with supervision and early introduction

Training: Intelligent and willing, but needs firm, patient, and positive training from an early age

Description

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a strong, gentle giant from the Swiss Alps, originally bred for herding, pulling carts, and guarding farms. Known as the "Swissy," this breed is loyal, steady, and affectionate with family, making it a great working companion and family pet. Their short but dense double coat is easy to groom, though they shed moderately, especially during seasonal coat changes. Swissies are intelligent and willing, but they mature slowly, so training requires patience, consistency, and early socialization. They enjoy moderate exercise and mental engagement, especially when they have a job to do.

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History

Origin: The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, or Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund, originated in Switzerland and is the oldest of the four Swiss Sennenhund breeds. Its ancestors are believed to be mastiff-type dogs brought by Roman soldiers during their invasion of the Alps around the first century B.C. These dogs adapted to the mountainous terrain and became invaluable farm helpers.
Development: Originally bred as draft and drover dogs, Swissies were known as the “poor man’s horse,” pulling carts loaded with dairy and meat to markets. They also guarded livestock and served as loyal companions. Their tri-colored coat and sturdy build made them ideal for Alpine farm life. By the late 19th century, mechanization reduced their need, and the breed nearly went extinct.
Revival: The breed was rediscovered in the early 1900s thanks to advocates like Albert Heim and Franz Schertenlieb. The Swiss Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1910, leading to preservation efforts. Strict breeding programs helped restore their numbers, and by 1945, registrations began increasing steadily.
Global Spread: The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog was introduced to the United States in 1968. It gained provisional recognition by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1985 and full recognition in 1995. Today, they are bred worldwide, admired for their working aptitude and gentle nature.
Today, Swissies are valued as family pets and working dogs due to their loyalty, strength, and cheerful disposition. They excel in activities like cart-pulling, obedience trials, and therapy work. While they require ample exercise and space, they are renowned for their adaptability and devotion to their families.

Dog Breed

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Breed Overview

Physical Characteristics

Behavioral Traits

Health Information

Care

Socialization and Training

Description

History

Ideal Owner

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