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 breastbone extends slightly ahead of the legs. The head is large with a broad, flat skull and slight stop. The skull should be approximately the same length as the muzzle and the teeth must meet in a scissors bite. The color of the eyes may vary from hazel to chestnut. Their expression is attentive and intelligent. The muzzle is blunt, and the nose and lips must always be black. The pendant, medium-sized ears are triangular. The long tail reaches to the hocks. GSMD has a beautiful tri-color double coat (black with rich rust and white markings). The outer coat is no longer than 2 inches (5cm.), and 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.
Temperament
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is steady, watchful and protective, but not aggressive. Willing and loves to please, they are excellent with children. Loyal and adoring they are generally good with other pets and are not generally dog aggressive. Territorial, the Swissy should be introduced to newcomers, but will quickly warm up to those the family accepts. An excellent, courageous, alert watchdog who will bark at strange noises and intruders. He needs to be a part of the family and prefers to be with his people all the time. The GSMD gets along well with family pets, but may have to be taught not to chase. They are slow to mature, both physically and mentally. "Puppyhood" may last 2-3 years.
Height, Weight
Height: 23.5-28.5 (60-72cm.)
Weight: 130-135 pounds (59-61kg.)
Health Problems
Like many large deep-chested dogs, the GSMD is prone to bloat and hip dysplasia. 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 inward 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.
Living Conditions
They will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They prefer cool climates. A small yard is sufficient.
Exercise
Moderate exercise is needed, however they do need to be taken on a daily, long walk.
Life Expectancy
About 10-11 years.
Grooming
An easy groom dog. Regular brushing will due. This breed is an average shedder.
Origin
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 of 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 Dog's were imported to the United States in 1967. The GSMD is still fairly rare, even in Switzerland. However, the breed is now fully recognized by the AKC. Its talents are tracking, watchdogging, guarding, carting, and competitive obedience.
Group
Mastiff, AKC Working
