Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Finnish Lapphund
Breed Compatibility
91% Compatible
Energy Level
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Finnish Lapphund: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Agreeable0.6
Finnish Lapphund: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Finnish Lapphund: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Luxury
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Finnish Lapphund4/5
Good with Other Dogs
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog3/5
Finnish Lapphund3/5
Good with Strangers
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Finnish Lapphund4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Bloat: Serious digestive emergency
Eye Problems: Various hereditary issues
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Splenic Torsion: Emergency condition
Finnish Lapphund
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRCD-PRA: Progressive eye condition
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
GCL: Genetic eye disorder
PHTVL/PHPV: Eye development disorder
RD: Retinal development problems
Pros & Cons Comparison
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
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
Finnish Lapphund
Pros
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Highly trainable
Weather resistant
Adaptable
Cons
Heavy seasonal shedding
Can be vocal
Needs regular exercise
Strong herding instinct
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their massive size, these gentle giants were known as 'poor man's horse' in Swiss farming communities.
Finnish Lapphund Fun Fact
Finnish Lapphunds can herd reindeer using subtle body movements and barking patterns unique to the breed.
Heritage & Purpose
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Origin:
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.
Finnish Lapphund
Origin:
Developed by the Sami people in Lapland during the 1940s, these dogs expertly herded reindeer across vast Arctic territories, using their agility and intelligence to manage large herds.
Special Considerations
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Needs early socialization and training. Regular exercise essential. Watch for signs of bloat and joint issues. Climate sensitivity in hot weather requires monitoring.
Finnish Lapphund
Regular brushing needed during heavy shedding seasons. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.