Buyer question
Is a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog good for beginners?
Usually not: our Animal Library rates the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog 2 out of 5 for beginners (big, strong and pulls).
Source: the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog page in the Everybarn Animal Library. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog in the Animal Library
The detail
The largest of the Swiss mountain breeds, bred to pull carts, drive cattle and guard farms in the Alps. The Swissy is a strong, confident and sociable family dog, slow to mature, and happiest with a job such as carting or hiking.
- Temperament
- Bold, faithful, sociable
- Best fit
- Experienced families, cool climate
- Trainability
- 3 out of 5 (Willing but slow to mature)
- Energy
- 3 out of 5 (Daily walks and work)
- Grooming load
- 2 out of 5 (Weekly brush, seasonal shed)
What to weigh
Swissies are strong pullers and stay puppyish for about three years. They are prone to bloat, and some eat anything they find, so plan for training and a close eye on the yard.