Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Description

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, also called Bouvier Suisse, is a well-known breed of large, muscular dog that originated in Swiss Alps. It belongs to the working breed family which is noteworthy for their guarding skills and rescuing abilities. Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs have been bred to become pets, draft and drover dogs, and all-purpose escorts. Their double coat is dense in the outside and thick underneath. Its tric-color coat is a combination of black, rust, and white.

Height and Weight

Both the male and female members of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog breed normally stand a height of 23.5 to 28.5 in at the withers, and weigh about 130 to 135 lbs.

Temperament

Swissies, in general, are sweet, devoted, very loving, and easy-going dogs. They are willing and very eager to please their family owners, and are usually excellent around children. The breed is also known to relate well with other animals. They love to be with people and they crave attention. Swissies are admirable, and tend to be cautious and protective of their homes.  They are not dog-aggressive, and they are likely to warm up readily to welcomed strangers. The breed is courageous, and they make keen watchdogs that bark when danger is sensed. Swissies love to be with their masters, and tend to be unhappy when locked up in a kennel. The breed is highly intelligent, and it enjoys working. They typically require a firm yet gentle handler who can display confidence and consistency in their leadership over the breed.

Grooming

The short double coat of Swissy dogs are not demanding to care for. They only need to be brushed once or a couple of times a week. The breed is an average shedder.

Health Concerns

Swissy pets have been identified to be healthier as compared to other canines of the same size. As a matter of fact, they have an average lifespan of 8 to 11 years. Nonetheless, they are commonly plagued with a few health complications such as eyelash problems, urinary incontinence, lick fit, bloat, epilepsy, spleen disorders, elbow dysplasia, and hip dysplasia.

Best Environment

Because the members of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog are very large, they are best suited in living quarters that provide a lot of room for exercise. They do not thrive in kennel-living, and may require constant human companionship and interaction to be happy. The breed also prefers areas with cooler climates. When it comes to exercise, Swissies have to be taken out for daily long walks to meet their moderate physical exertion needs.