Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Quick Summary
Powerful, family-oriented working dog ideal for active owners with space. Best suited for experienced dog owners who can provide consistent training and exercise.
Contents
Weight Range
85-140 lbs
♂ Male: 115-140 lbs
♀ Female: 85-110 lbs
Height Range
60-72 inches
♂ Male: 26-29"
♀ Female: 26-29"
Life Expectancy
8-11 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #68
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Working Group
Originally bred for Swiss farmers utilized these dogs in the Alps during the 1800s for drafting, herding, and guarding livestock
Popularity
#74
Moderately popular breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 25.5"-28.5" |
| Female Height | 25.5"-28.5" |
| Male Weight | 115-140 lbs |
| Female Weight | 85-110 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 3/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $2,000-3,500 for purchase. Monthly expenses around $150-200 for food and basic care. Annual veterinary costs average $500-1,000, with potential for higher emergency expenses.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Calm and dignified yet alert and protective. Combines working dog energy with a gentle family-oriented nature. Shows strong loyalty to family while maintaining natural guarding instincts.
Social Needs
Highly social breed requiring substantial family interaction. Generally good with other dogs but early socialization is crucial. Can handle alone time if properly trained, but prefers company.
Breed Overview
Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs possess a robust, muscular build with distinctive tri-colored markings. Standing tall with a broad chest and powerful shoulders, these gentle giants combine strength with remarkable agility. Their dense double coat features a black base with rich rust and white markings, while their confident bearing and alert expression reflect their heritage as working dogs.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Loyal and devoted to family
- ✓ Excellent watchdog capabilities
- ✓ Good with children
- ✓ Strong and athletic
- ✓ Low grooming needs
Cons
- ✗ Heavy shedding seasonally
- ✗ Not apartment-friendly
- ✗ Can be stubborn
- ✗ Expensive to feed
- ✗ Short lifespan
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Faithful, Family-Oriented, Dependable |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Agreeable |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise including structured walks, hiking, and pulling activities. Moderate to high intensity level needed, with focus on both physical and mental stimulation through varied activities.
Diet & Nutrition
Adult Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs require 4-6 cups of high-quality food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention needed for portion control to prevent obesity, with adjusted portions based on activity level.
Feed 4-6 cups of high-quality large breed food daily, split into two meals. Adjust portions based on age, weight, and activity level. Consider supplements for joint health. Monitor weight to prevent obesity.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Best suited for homes with large, fenced yards. Thrives in cooler climates and needs ample space to move. Not ideal for apartment living due to their size and exercise requirements.
Requires minimum half-acre fenced yard. Thrives in homes with large outdoor spaces. Can adapt to suburban living with adequate exercise but not suited for apartment life.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Developed in the Swiss Alps as a versatile farm dog, these powerful canines helped with cattle driving, cart pulling, and property guarding. Their strength and reliability made them indispensable to Swiss farmers.
Historical Purpose
Swiss farmers utilized these dogs in the Alps during the 1800s for drafting, herding, and guarding livestock. Their strength and versatility made them invaluable working companions.
Fun Fact
Despite their massive size, these gentle giants were known as 'poor man's horse' in Swiss farming communities.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Needs early socialization and training. Regular exercise essential. Watch for signs of bloat and joint issues. Climate sensitivity in hot weather requires monitoring.