The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, also known as the Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund in their homeland of Switzerland, is a large and sturdy breed that has become increasingly popular in recent years. As an experienced dog trainer and lover of all things canine, I can attest to the loyalty and protective nature of this impressive breed.
History:
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog dates back to the 16th century when they were used by Swiss farmers as versatile working dogs. Their primary role was to drive cattle and protect them from predators like wolves, making them incredibly valuable members of any farming community. Despite being relatively unknown outside of Switzerland until recently, they have been recognized by the American Kennel Club since 1995.
Physical Appearance:
One glance at a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog will tell you that they are indeed a large breed. Adult males stand between 25-28 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh upwards of 120 pounds while females typically range from 23-26 inches tall and weigh around 100 pounds. They have distinctive tri-color coats that consist mostly of black with rust-colored markings on their cheeks, chest, feet and legs as well as white blaze on their chests.
Temperament:
Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are naturally friendly animals that thrive when given enough attention by their families or owners. However, because they were originally bred for herding purposes – meaning protecting against potential predators or threats – these dogs tend to be quite wary around strangers but warm up quickly once introduced properly.
Health Problems:
As with many purebred breeds, there are certain health issues associated with Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs which prospective owners should be aware of before bringing one home such as joint dysplasia or other skeletal disorders due to their size. Fortunately most responsible breeders screen breeding stock for hip/elbow/eye problems so these risks can often be minimized if not completely eliminated in litters produced by reputable breeders.
Exercise Requirements:
Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs have high exercise requirements so it’s important for owners to provide them with plenty of opportunities for physical activity. They will enjoy daily walks or runs, hiking trips, and playtime in a fenced yard – especially when able to run alongside their favorite humans! Owners must be careful not over-exercise the breed during puppyhood while they’re still growing though, as this can lead to skeletal disorders down the road.
Grooming Needs:
Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs have relatively short coats that require minimal grooming beyond weekly brushing and occasional bathing depending on individual dog activities. However because these dogs are large and tend towards drooling more than other breeds additional attention should be paid to cleaning around mouths after meals or drinking water throughout the day.
Training:
As with any intelligent breed Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs respond well to positive reinforcement training techniques paired up with basic obedience classes early on can set an excellent foundation for successful dog ownership experience with this loyal companion.
Compatibility With Children And Other Pets
Overall, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs make great family pets due largely in part from their gentle personalities which enable them get along extremely well with children of all ages or even cats / other animals such as chickens (if raised together appropriately!). Just like any breed introductions need planning & proper supervision initially before allowing unsupervised interactions.
Personality Quirks:
While every individual animal has its own unique personality quirks The Greater Swiss is generally known best is their highly energetic playfulness combined alongside affectionate loyalty at all times – traits that will make you quickly fall in love forever!
Famous Examples:
Although not represented widely throughout media due primarily partially by being less common breed there are a few famous examples including ‘Brutus’, one of America’s largest living dogs per Guinness Book of World Records recognition alike his predecessor Titan coming ahead; both grew up under single US Navy veteran Dennis Sturtz who says he’s blessed having found these two amazing friends come along in his life.