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Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a giant working breed from Switzerland also known as Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund, Swissy, Great Swiss Cattle Dog.

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Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Breed overview

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a giant working breed from Switzerland also known as Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund, Swissy, Great Swiss Cattle Dog.

The largest of the four Swiss Sennenhund breeds, originally used as an alpine draft and guard dog.

People looking into Greater Swiss Mountain Dog usually prepare for Moderate exercise needs, Moderate grooming needs, 85–140 lbs • 23–28 in.

Grosser Schweizer SennenhundSwissyGreat Swiss Cattle Dog

History and origin

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is tied to originating from Switzerland, specifically Swiss Alps, with sources often placing its development around 1515 CE.

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is described here as placed in the working group and marked as an established breed.

The largest of the four Swiss Sennenhund breeds, originally used as an alpine draft and guard dog.

Browse dog breeds from Switzerland Browse more working breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
working
Size
Giant
Origin country
Switzerland
Region
Swiss Alps
Origin year
1515 CE
Weight
85–140 lbs
Height
23–28 in
Lifespan
8–11 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
3 / 5
Trainability
3 / 5
Good with children
4 / 5
Shedding level
4 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
Moderate exercise needsModerate grooming needsChildren score: 4/5Trainability: 3/5

Coat and classification

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

ShortThickDouble

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Large, powerful build with heavy bone
  • Tricolor coat (black, white, rust)
  • Broad head with attentive expression
  • Deep chest for endurance

What this breed is known for

  • The largest of the four Swiss Sennenhund breeds, originally used as an alpine draft and guard dog.
  • Known for its faithful, dependable temperament as a family companion.
  • Despite their size and strength, Swissys are gentle with children and make loyal watchdogs.

Health and care notes

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is noted here for Moderate exercise needs and Moderate grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Osteochondritis Dissecans

Coat details: Short, Thick, Double

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog come from?

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is closely associated with Switzerland, especially Swiss Alps in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog get?

Typical size details for Greater Swiss Mountain Dog on this page are 85–140 lbs, 23–28 in, 8–11 years.

What is the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog known for?

The largest of the four Swiss Sennenhund breeds, originally used as an alpine draft and guard dog.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.