Parson Russell Terrier vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Breed Compatibility
76% Compatible
Energy Level
Parson Russell Terrier: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Parson Russell Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Agreeable0.6
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Parson Russell Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Parson Russell Terrier3/5
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Parson Russell Terrier5/5
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog3/5
Good with Strangers
Parson Russell Terrier3/5
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Parson Russell Terrier
Lens luxation: Eye lens displacement
Ataxia: Neurological coordination issue
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss
Glaucoma: Eye pressure condition
Patellar luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Primary lens luxation: Eye disorder
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
Pros & Cons Comparison
Parson Russell Terrier
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent exercise companion
Compact size
Low grooming needs
Cons
High exercise requirements
Strong prey drive
Can be stubborn
May be vocal
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
Parson Russell Terrier Fun Fact
These terriers can jump up to five times their own height, making them exceptional athletes in dog sports!
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their massive size, these gentle giants were known as 'poor man's horse' in Swiss farming communities.
Heritage & Purpose
Parson Russell Terrier
Origin:
Developed in England during the 1800s as a skilled fox hunting terrier, these dogs excelled at following quarry underground and maintaining steady pursuit during hunts.
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.
Special Considerations
Parson Russell Terrier
Requires secure fencing due to high prey drive. Weekly grooming needed to maintain coat. Daily exercise essential for physical and mental well-being.
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.
Shedding
OccasionalShedding
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