Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Working Kelpie
Breed Compatibility
99% Compatible
Energy Level
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Working Kelpie: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Agreeable0.6
Working Kelpie: Independent0.4
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Working Kelpie: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Luxury
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Working Kelpie5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog3/5
Working Kelpie3/5
Good with Strangers
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Working Kelpie5/5
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
Working Kelpie
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal issues
Cerebellar Abiotrophy: Neurological concern
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defects
Cryptorchidism: Reproductive issue
Joint Problems: Working strain impact
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
Working Kelpie
Pros
Exceptional working ability
High intelligence
Strong endurance
Loyal companion
Low grooming needs
Cons
Extremely high exercise needs
Can be too intense for casual owners
Strong herding instincts
May be too energetic for small spaces
Requires constant mental stimulation
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their massive size, these gentle giants were known as 'poor man's horse' in Swiss farming communities.
Working Kelpie Fun Fact
Working Kelpies can cover up to 50 kilometers in a day while working, showcasing their legendary endurance.
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.
Working Kelpie
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1870s for sheep herding in harsh outback conditions. These dogs revolutionized livestock management through their exceptional working abilities and stamina.
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.
Working Kelpie
Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular grooming is minimal but necessary. Health monitoring should focus on eyes and joints due to working strain.