Everyone loves dogs, as even cat people will not deny that. There is just something about their demeanor that makes them so beloved by many. However, not all dogs are friendly. Some are that way because of their upbringing, while others tend to be just protective of anything that they have. There is a reason why they are still the most popular choice for a pet as you can see in this article: https://www.care.com/c/stories/6124/25-reasons-dogs-are-the-best-things-on-earth/.
The general public would usually classify these animals from big to small. Chihuahuas and pugs are in the smaller category. While the bigger ones tend to be populated by Great Danes and St. Bernards. In the middle of them are your Golden Retrievers and Labradors. However, this is not an official classification, but mainly how most of us would see them.
History
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog comes from Switzerland. They say they are descendants of the Mastiff dogs came with Roman soldiers when they invaded Switzerland. Were recorded by the American Kennel Association in 1995.
The Greater Swiss Mountain dog is not a popular breed of dog here in the US, but it is one of the most recognizable. However, it is often confused with the Bernese Mountain dog due to similar coloration. Both have a black hide, with a brown or tan outlined white underbelly. The Berners are so much hairier though as the Swiss do have shorter hair.
Another thing that makes the Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs even more recognizable is their size. They are a part of the larger breeds, measuring up 28 inches in height. The males could reach up to 135 lbs while the females are up to 110 lbs. This makes them heavier than the average canine, so it can be intimidating to take care of them. As with most dogs though, they will always respond positively to proper care.
Temperament – What You Can Expect
One of the best things about this dog is its size. It is usually a great deterrent to any kind of prey, as it was used in the Swiss alps as a guard or watchdog. This is why it is also great for people who want a dog that can be great for their homes. With their size, no one wants to deal with that. It can be fear-inducing, especially for anyone who is not yet acclimatized to the dog. Visit BestProtectionDogs.org to know more about the best dog breeds for protection.
However, they are well-known as softies. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are rather mild in temperament, especially around humans. Their barks might be low and growly, but they are sweethearts especially to children. This is where the comparison comes to the Berners, as they do have the same disposition.
Most of the larger breeds are gentler in comparison to the smaller ones; hence the title: Gentle giants. You can learn more about this personality here. They may be big, but they sure are a softy on the inside. These sweethearts are sure to win your affection any day.
This does not mean that they can be quite tame. When facing a threat, their watchdog instincts kick in and protect anyone that they know. This is usually sheep or even other people like children. Their bite might not be as strong as a German shepherd, but the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog can still tackle a larger human. There have been recorded instances of them fighting off wolves as well.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog does not need extensive exercise so it can be stored in an apartment as long as you can get all day-long walks. A good walled garden would be ideal. It s a watchdog and guard dog great. And “they agree with other pets and dogs. They say that is good with older children. As a reminder, never leave your child unsupervised with a puppy or dog. Prefers cool climates and has a layer of easy maintenance.
Approximate size adults
The approximate adult size (two years or more) of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is 23 to 29 inches at the withers (the highest point of the shoulder) and weighed 130 pounds to 135.
Special Health Considerations
Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with this particular race and the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is no exception. Be on the lookout for Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), a bone disease, epilepsy (common in dogs), swelling (dilation-torsion stomach, the second leading cause of dogs, can kill within an hour, this space is too small for a full explanation, but you should read this.)
Feed several times a day and exercising the right to avoid after meals can help prevent problems and swelling of the eyes. The disease list is an informative guide. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
You should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for the photos, repeaters, and control. Then, in adulthood, consult your veterinarian for annual vaccinations and check. As it grows, and six years later, you should see the veterinarian twice a year for checkups and immunizations. Remember, avoid feeding your dog sweets.
Life
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog can live between 10 and 12 years with proper nutrition, medical care, and excellent living conditions.
Suggested Tips For Care & Training
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has a double layer. The hair is the inner layer of short, shiny, and thick is too thick. This is a normal amount of hair. You should be brushed weekly. Brushing helps keep the hair clean and healthy and helps you keep an eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrushes for dogs. Brushing removes plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, tooth loss, bad breath, and other serious illnesses.
The nails may be necessary to examine the growth and regular cutting. Nails grow back more slowly than before. Generally, a guillotine type of cutting is the best for this chore, and competent instructions to accomplish what you can find online.
One of the key things about their training is you need to start early. As soon as you are able, introduce them to obedience and playmaking. They are such big dogs that it can be difficult to teach them as they grow older. You would end up getting pulled into submission instead of the other way around. Even though they are not biters, you would not want to face them when they are mad or agitated.
It is also important to have a big yard that this dog can play with. They need to have a lot of space to move and exercise. Remember: they came from a hard-working line of animals in the pasture. It is their instinct to help, guard, and run around. If you do have the space to let them do that, then they will take out on something else. This can lead to issues around the house like claw marks and bitten furniture.
Another thing that you need to keep in mind is their diet and exercise. They might be big, but you do not want to let them go overweight. It is important to schedule at least two walks or runs during the day, then you should let him or her in your yard. This way, they can spend all of that pent-up energy in nondestructive ways. After that, you might find them on the corners, already sleeping.
It is also important to groom them. Their fur might not be as thick as Berners, but they are still prone to overheating. This is why it is important to have air conditioners or you must live in a rather temperate environment before having this dog. Water is also needed at any point during the day.
Lastly, these Swiss dogs are known to chase small animals. From rats, squirrels to even a house cat, they will try to play with it. Worse, they might end up attacking the little animal. If you have a cat at home, then we do not recommend getting a Swiss. Even though they can be trained, some of them cannot just help it but give in to the chase. Be sure to warn your neighbors as well if they have cats.
When it comes to pet care, nothing beats more than their needs and your gift of TLC. However, dogs do come in a lot of shapes and sizes. Each of them has a specific set of needs. If you want to have a Greater Swiss Mountain dog, it is important to be familiar with their quirks as you would be with them for the rest of their lives.
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