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History
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog comes to us from the farms and villages of the Swiss Alps. He is the largest (and probably the oldest) of the four Sennenhund breeds ( including the Appenzell Cattle Dog, Entlebuch Cattle Dog, and the AKC-recognized Bernese Mountain Dog). The Sennenhund breeds are thought to be descendants of Roman Mastiffs, brought to the area more than 2000 years ago. The four breeds are different sizes, but share the same markings. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog's natural drafting ability led to his nickname, "the poor man's horse". GSMD's may have contributed to the development of the St. Bernard, then, when the St. Bernard became popular, the GSMD lost favor and almost became extinct. An authority on the Sennenhund breeds, Dr. Albert Heim, rediscovered the Greater Swiss mountain Dog in 1908 while he was judging a dog show. He publicized the breed and encouraged people to begin breeding programs. Response was enthusiastic and now the breed is re-established. The first Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs were imported to the United States in 1967. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is still fairly rare, even in Switzerland, however, the breed is now fully recognized by the AKC.
Description
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a large, strong, muscular, draft dog. The body is slightly longer than it is tall. The front legs are straight and strong with rounded, compact feet. The chest is broad and deep, and the breast bone extends slightly ahead of the legs. The head is large with a broad, flat skull and slight stop. The skull should be the same length as the muzzle. The muzzle is blunt, and the nose is black. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The eyes are dark brown (blue eyes are a disqualification) with a gentle but lively expression. The eye rims are black. The pendant, medium-sized ears are triangular. The long tail reaches to the hocks. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has a beautiful tri-color double coat (black with rich rust and white markings). The outer coat is about 2.5 to 4.5 cm long, lined with a dense undercoat. Rust markings include a spot over each eye, rust on the cheeks, and on either side of the chest. Symmetrical markings are preferred. The tip of the tail, a blaze on the muzzle and a large marking on the chest are white. A white collar or patches on the neck are permitted. Any base color other than black is a disqualification.
Talents
Tracking, watchdog, guarding, carting, and competitive obedience.
Personality
Steady, watchful and protective, but not aggressive. Willing; loves to please. Loyal, and adoring. Territorial; the Swissy should be introduced to newcomers, but will quickly warm up to those the family accepts. An excellent, alert watchdog who will bark at strange noises and intruders. Needs to be part of the family and prefers to be with his people all the time.
Behavior
Children: Excellent with children.
Friendliness: Fairly friendly with strangers.
Trainability: Easy to train.
Independence: Moderately dependent on people.
Dominance: Moderate.
Other Pets: Generally good with other pets.
Combativeness: Not generally dog-aggressive.
Noise: Average barker.
Notes
Gets along well with family pets, but may have to be taught not to chase. Slow to mature, both physically and mentally. "Puppyhood" may last 2-3 years. Like many large, deep-chested dogs, the GSMD is prone to bloat. Beware of hip dysplasia; buy only from OFA stock. Many Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs have distichiasis, a condition in which extra eyelashes grow along the edge of the eyelid. These extra lashes can curl inwards and scratch the eye. Though the condition may not pose any problem, it sometimes requires surgical correction. Some lines have incidences of epilepsy and digestive disorders. Don't feed bones of any sort to Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs as their powerful jaws can crunch up just about anything.
Grooming
Grooming: Regular grooming needed.
Trimming & Stripping: No trimming or stripping needed.
Coat: Medium coat.
Shedding: Average shedder.
Exercise: Moderate exercise needed.
Jogging: A fair jogging companion.
Indoors: Moderately active indoors.
Apartments: Will be OK in an apartment if sufficiently exercised.
Outdoor Space: A small yard is sufficient.
Climate: Prefers cool climates.
Owner: Not recommended for novice owners.
Longevity: Short (under 10 years).
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