Appenzeller Mountain Dog

Appenzeller Sennenhund

The Appenzeller Mountain Dog is a herding breed that originated in Switzerland. They are one of the four Sennenhunds, or Swiss Mountain Dogs, the other three being the Grosser Schweizer, Berner, and Entelbucher. All four of these breeds share the same coat colors, although they very in size. The Appenzeller Mountain Dog is the rarest of the four.

Appearance

A medium breed, the Appenzeller Mountain Dog stands between 19-23 inches and weighs in at 55-70 pounds. They have a short double coat that is tricolor, black or havana brown with rust and white. There should be rust markings over each eye, on the cheeks, legs, and either side of the chest. White should be on the muzzle, feet, tip of the tail, chest, muzzle, and a blaze on the forehead. The tail of the Appenzeller Mountain Dog is curled tightly over the back.

History

It is believed that the Appenzeller Mountain Dog is descended from large Molossers brought to Switzerland either by the Romans or Phoenician traders. Unlike the other Sennenhunds, it seems as if there is a bit of spitz in the breed as well (evident in the curled tail), which adds to a second theory that they are descended from a native dogs. The word Senn is the term for Alpine herdsmen, so a Sennenhund is a “dog of the Senn”. Traditionally the Appenzeller Mountain Dog was used to for herding cattle, as guard dogs, and for general farm work.

Temperament

The Appenzeller Mountain Dog is an intelligent and lively breed that is affectionate with their family, but tends to bond strongly with a single person. They generally get along well with other dogs and non-canine pets, provided they are socialized early. A natural watch dog, most are wary of strangers. Appenzeller Mountain Dogs like to work and be outdoors; if they are left too long without enrichment or a task to do they can turn destructive.

Health and Care

The life expectancy of the Appenzeller Mountain Dog is 11-13 years, they are a healthy breed.

Appenzeller Mountain Dogs are not suited for apartment life. This is a breed that needs plenty of room to run. Daily, brisk walks are a must.

The short coat of an Appenzeller Mountain Dog requires little attention, just a quick brush when necessary.