Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Picture
Photo ©2005 Big Paws Only

Standard Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Characteristics

About the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, also known as the Greater Swiss Cattle Dog, was found in the early 1900s in Switzerland. These dogs were originally used as a draft dog for the local farmers who needed help in moving things.

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is mainly used as a companion dog today all around the world.

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Temperment and Intelligence

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is an energetic and lovable dog. They are excellent in caring and protecting their owners and children. Superb watchdogs, these loyal dogs will first be stand offish to strangers but warm up when they see no danger is present. They love to be with their owners all of the time and will bark when they hear noises or stranger.

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Characteristics

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a short haired tri-colored dog. The undercoat is various shades of gray or tawny while the top coat is black with markings of rust and white. The rust markings are on the eyes, cheek and underside of the ears while the white is on the head, muzzle, chest, and possibly on all four paws. They have almond shaped brown eyes, triangular shaped ears, and a blunt, flat nose that is always black. Their paws are short and rotund with arched toes and their tail is carried down. An average male is between 25.5-28.5 inches tall and 130-145 pounds while a typical female is 23.5-27 inches tall and 100-120 pounds.

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Health Concerns

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia as well as bloat, epilepsy, and other digestive disorders. The breed is also known to be prone to eye problems where the eyelashes can grow into the eye and scratch it.

Choosing a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

This family dog will do well in any type of setting, including apartments. They do need daily exercise but a small yard will suffice. They do tend to remain in the puppy stage for 2-3 years so owners of this dog must have patience.

More Information on the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

You can also browse the forums for more information by owners of this wonderful breed. See the following:

Discuss the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Here
View Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Pictures in the Forum Here