Discover Everything About Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Learn about the breed characteristics, health, history, and find trusted breeders
Breed Profile
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, also affectionately known as “Grosser”. called, is an impressive phenomenon. With its strong stature and characteristic colors - black, with rusty brown and white markings - it attracts attention. Its physique is muscular and balanced, which is a testament to its role as a working dog in the past. His facial expression is friendly and intelligent, and his dark eyes radiate calm and serenity. This handsome dog belongs to FCI Group 2, Section 3: Swiss Mountain Dogs. There is no distinction between performance and show lines in this breed, which underlines its versatility as a family, working and show dog.
| Height | 60 - 68 cm (Female), 65 - 72 cm (Male) |
| Weight | 36 - 41 kg (Female), 50 - 64 kg (Male) |
| Life Expectancy | 10 - 11 years |
| Character | Robust, loyal, calm |
| Coat | Dense, smooth, short double hair |
| Coat Color | Black with rusty brown and white markings |
| Price | 2500 - 4000 € € |
History
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is the oldest and largest of the four mountain dog breeds and has a long history as a working dog in the Swiss Alps. He was used for a variety of tasks including pulling carts, herding flocks, and guarding farms and livestock. The breed was valued early on by farmers and traders for its strength, endurance and versatility. Despite their hard work, their popularity declined in the late 19th century when modern transportation methods were introduced. Fortunately, Professor Albert Heim rediscovered the breed at a dog exhibition and recognized its uniqueness. Through his efforts, the breed was officially recognized in 1908 and a breeding program was established to preserve the breed.
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog was bred as a draft, guard and driving dog, known for its strength and tri-colored coat.
Switzerland
1908
Character & Temperament
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is known for its calm and relaxed temperament. He is very people-oriented and forms a close bond with his family. His loyalty and desire to please make him a wonderful companion and family dog. He is also a good guardian, guarding his territory and his family without aggression but with determination. Despite its size and strength, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a gentle giant. He is friendly and good-natured and gets along well with children. He is also tolerant of other dogs and pets if properly socialized. His playful side is often evident in his tendency to run and play, especially as a puppy and young adult. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a hard-working dog that enjoys tasks. He can learn to stay alone, but he prefers to be close to his people and take part in their activities. He doesn't have the strong hunting behavior of some other breeds, but he can protect his family and home from intruders when necessary. The breed is intelligent and learns quickly, which, combined with their love of work and desire to please, makes training easier. However, they tend to be a bit stubborn if not sufficiently motivated or stimulated. Positive and consistent upbringing is therefore essential.
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Did you know that the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is the oldest and largest of the four mountain dog breeds? Despite their size, they are known for their gentleness and balanced nature!
Fun Fact!
What Awaits You
Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are considered independent, territorial dogs, but also friendly. Appropriate socialization and upbringing is important, not least because of their size.
Housing & Care
Large dogs are wonderful family dogs and get along well with children. They are usually also friendly with other pets. However, they need enough space and are therefore not necessarily suitable as pure city dogs, although they can adapt to life in an apartment as long as they get enough exercise and mental activity. You love nature and enjoy long walks and trips to the mountains.
| Family Friendly | |
| Child Friendly | |
| Dog Friendly | |
| City Friendly |
Owning a dog is not only a privilege, but also a responsibility. If you want to bring a dog into your life, you must be aware of the commitment that dog ownership entails!!
Training & Education
Large Swiss Mountain Dogs are very trainable and eager to work. They require consistent but loving training and respond well to positive reinforcement. Because of their size and strength, it is important that they learn to walk well on a leash and control their strength. They need both physical and mental exercise, but they can also relax well and are usually quiet people around the house.
Nutrition & Care
As large and active dogs, they need a balanced diet to provide them with enough energy. It is important to pay attention to the quality of the food and, if necessary, adapt it to the age, activity and health of the dog. Grooming the coat of Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs is relatively uncomplicated. They have a dense, short coat with an undercoat that sheds heavily twice a year, especially in spring and autumn. Regular brushing helps keep the coat clean and healthy.
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This information is currently being reviewed by experts. If you discover an error, please send an email to info@honestdog.de!!
Health
No Health Tests Available
No specific health tests are currently available for this breed.
Community Posts
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