Brief History
The Great Swiss Mountain Dog’s early history is relatively unknown as the valleys of Switzerland were relatively isolated. With selective breeding the Swiss have manage to create a working dog with origins in the farm areas where they have a history of farm work, guarding livestock, driving cattle and pulling carts. These dogs were previously known as “Butchers Dogs” and “Poor Mans Horse”.

Average Life Span
When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime. The Great Swiss Mountain Dog lives for approximately 10-11 years.

Breed Health
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders in is recommended you enquire about breed health and what health testing the breeder does. The Great Swiss Mountain Dog are a very hardy breed, however they are susceptible to Hip and Elbow Dysplasia and bloat.

Temperament
This breed is self-confident, alert, watchful and fearless in everyday situations. He is good-natured and devoted towards people familiar to him. He is self-assured with strangers.

General Breed Description
A tricolour, sturdy, heavy boned and well-muscled dog. He has lots of endurance and agility. The adult dog that has been appropriately socialised will make a devoted family member. Puppies are highly active and need to be trained early. The Great Swiss Mountain Dog is a slow maturing dog.

Coat and Care requirements
Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs have a short, easy-care coat. Weekly brushing will be fine although more attention will be required during the shedding season. This will help to keep the to keep loose hair under control.

Size
Males:    65 – 72cm

Females:  60 – 68cm

Suitability
The ideal owner will be prepared for a dog that may not give them much alone time and will want to be very involved in their daily lives. This breed will be happier to live inside with the family. Short, regular obedience sessions will be part of their routine. Exercise should be minimal when young and slowly increased with age and maturity.

In Conclusion
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.

Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.

Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.

Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard: https://dogsaustralia.org.au/members/Breed/Detail/233