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The '''Greater Swiss Mountain Dog''' ({{ |
The '''Greater Swiss Mountain Dog''' ({{langx|de|Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund}} or {{langx|fr|Grand Bouvier Suisse}}) is a [[dog breed]] which was developed in the [[Swiss Alps]]. The name ''[[Sennenhund]]'' refers to people called ''Senn'' or ''Senner'', dairymen and herders in the Swiss Alps. Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are almost certainly the result of [[Indigenous (ecology)|indigenous]] dogs [[Canine reproduction|mating]] with large [[mastiff]]-type dogs brought to [[Switzerland]] by foreign settlers.<ref name=gsmdca/> It was assumed to have almost died out by the late 19th century, since its work was being done by other breeds or machines, but was rediscovered in the early 1900s.<ref name=akc/> |
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Its [[Breed standard (dogs)|breed standard]] calls for a black, white, and rust colored coat. |
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Among the four Sennenhunde, or [[Swiss mountain dog]]s, this breed is considered the oldest, and is also the largest.<ref name=gsmdca/> |
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==History== |
==History== |
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===Breed history=== |
===Breed history=== |
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[[Image:1815 Alpine Mastiff.jpg|thumb|right|alt=This shows an 1815 painting of an Alpine Mastiff.|A painting of an Alpine Mastiff which was brought to Britain in 1815]] |
[[Image:1815 Alpine Mastiff.jpg|thumb|right|alt=This shows an 1815 painting of an Alpine Mastiff.|A painting of an Alpine Mastiff which was brought to Britain in 1815]] |
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The origin of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is not known. Beginning in 1515, the [[Geography of Switzerland|remote valleys]] of Switzerland were more or less isolated from world history for three centuries. Specific dog breeds were created by inbreeding, and puppies were given to neighbors and family members.<ref name=raber/> |
The origin of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is not known. Beginning in 1515, the [[Geography of Switzerland|remote valleys]] of Switzerland were more or less isolated from world history for three centuries. Specific dog breeds were created by inbreeding, and puppies were given to neighbors and family members.<ref name=raber/> |
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<ref name=gsmdca/> |
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There are several theories regarding the origin of the four Sennenhund breeds. The most popular theory states the dogs are descended from the [[Molossus (dog)|Molossus]], a large mastiff-type dog, which accompanied the [[Switzerland in the Roman era|Roman Legions]] on their invasion of the Alps more than 2,000 years ago.<ref name=gsmdca/>{{unreliable source?|reason=website article, no sources|date=April 2019}} |
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A second theory is that in 1100 BC, the [[Phoenicia#High point:1200-800 BC|Phoenicians]] brought a large dog breed with them to settlements in Spain. These dogs later migrated eastward and influenced the development of the [[Spanish Mastiff]], [[Pyrenean Mountain Dog|Great Pyrenees]], [[Dogue de Bordeaux]], and Sennenhund breeds.<ref name=gsmdca/>{{unreliable source?|reason=website article, no sources|date=April 2019}} |
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A third possibility is that a large dog breed was indigenous to central Europe during the [[Neolithic]] Period, when humans grew wild and domestic crops and used domesticated animals. Whether or not a domesticated large breed existed in the Alpine area when the Romans invaded, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are almost certainly the result of the mating of native farm dogs with large Mastiff-type dogs brought to Switzerland by foreign settlers. The early ancestors of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog were used by farmers, herdsmen and merchants in [[central Europe]]. The breed was bred as a [[draught dog]] to pull heavy carts, to [[Herding dog#Herding behavior|guard and move dairy cattle]], and as a watchdog and family companion.<ref name=gsmdca/>{{unreliable source?|reason=website article, no sources|date=April 2019}} |
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===Selective breeding=== |
===Selective breeding=== |
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[[Image:Greater Swiss Mountain Dog double-team hauling a filled wagon..PNG|thumb|left|alt=Historical photograph showing a double team of Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs pulling a merchant's wagon.|These two Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs, forming a double team, have collar harnesses, with the shaft between their legs. The driver is in the wagon.]] |
[[Image:Greater Swiss Mountain Dog double-team hauling a filled wagon..PNG|thumb|left|alt=Historical photograph showing a double team of Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs pulling a merchant's wagon.|These two Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs, forming a double team, have collar harnesses, with the shaft between their legs. The driver is in the wagon.]] |
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The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a draft and drover breed that performs well very mountainous regions.<ref name=akc>{{cite web|title=AKC Meet the Breeds: Greater Swiss Mountain Dog|publisher=America Kennel Club|url=http://www.akc.org/breeds/greater_swiss_mountain_dog/ |access-date=April 30, 2010}}</ref><ref name="Bern Museum">[http://www.nmbe.ch/deutsch/531_5_2.html Great Swiss Mountain Dog] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090225051916/http://www.nmbe.ch/deutsch/531_5_2.html |date=February 25, 2009 }} (in English), Vertebrate Animals Department, Naturhistoriches Museum der Burgergemeinde Bern</ref> Its popularity as a draft dog led to the nickname "the poor man's horse".<ref name=gsmdca/> |
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===Renewal of breed=== |
===Renewal of breed=== |
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[[File:Albert Heim.jpg|thumb|right|upright|alt=This is a photograph of Dr. Albert Heim|Professor Albert Heim]] |
[[File:Albert Heim.jpg|thumb|right|upright|alt=This is a photograph of Dr. Albert Heim|Professor Albert Heim]] |
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It was assumed that the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog had almost died out by the late 19th century, because their work was being done by other breeds or machines, but they were rediscovered in the early 1900s.<ref name=akc/> |
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<ref>Also spelled ''Schertenleib''.</ref> to an advocate of the [[Swiss mountain dog]]s, geology professor [[Albert Heim]] (April 12, 1849 – August 31, 1937).<ref name=fci/> |
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Heim was a Sennenhund expert, and started to encourage breeders to take an interest in them. These efforts resulted in the re-establishment of the breed |
Heim was a Sennenhund expert, and started to encourage breeders to take an interest in them. These efforts resulted in the re-establishment of the breed.<ref name=fci/> The first [[breed club (dog)|breed club]] was formed in 1912 to promote the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog.<ref name="Bern Museum"/> The [[Bernese Mountain Dog]] and the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog are two of four distinctive farm-type dogs of Swiss origin who were saved from extinction and revitalized by Schertenlieb in the late 1800s.<ref>{{cite book|title=The Dog and its Genome|author=Ostrander, Elaine A.|year=2007|isbn=9780879697815|page=141|publisher=CSHL Press |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=94k1mKRcYd0C&q=%22greater+swiss+mountain+dog%22%22&pg=PA141|access-date=May 1, 2010}}</ref> |
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====Secondary theory{{who|reason=according to whom?|date=April 2019}}==== |
====Secondary theory{{who|reason=according to whom?|date=April 2019}}==== |
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Dr. Hans Raber commented on this discrepancy in his book, ''Die Schweizer Hunderassen'':<ref name=raber>{{cite book|title=Die Schweizer Hunderassen|author=Raber, Hans|page=Chapter 6 (revised) History of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog|year=1971|url=http://www.gsmdca.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/History_of_the_GSMD-1-website1.pdf|access-date=April 27, 2019|archive-date=April 28, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190428100945/http://www.gsmdca.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/History_of_the_GSMD-1-website1.pdf|url-status=dead}}</ref> |
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{{Blockquote|text=If this dog was commonly kept around 1870, it is unbelievable that only 30 years later you could only find him in remote valleys in the Bern area |
{{Blockquote|text=If this dog was commonly kept around 1870, it is unbelievable that only 30 years later you could only find him in remote valleys in the Bern area.|sign=Dr. Hans Raber|source=''Die Schweizer Hunderassen''}} |
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| ⚫ | Although Heim has said that the big butcher dogs, Metzgerhund, became extinct after foreign imports became more popular, there is speculation over whether farmers would get an expensive foreign dog.<ref name=raber/> In 1889 an International Dog Show was held in [[Winterthur]], northern Switzerland; various Sennenhunde were exhibited.<ref>{{cite report|title=Origin and Historical Background of Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs|publisher=Greater Swiss Mountain.Com|url=http://www.greaterswissmountain.com/|access-date=May 5, 2010|archive-date=March 18, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130318014403/http://www.greaterswissmountain.com/|url-status=dead}}</ref> |
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This theory asserts that systematic breeding did not occur.<ref name=raber/> Farmers did not typically take their in-season females to selected males, so breeding was left to chance.<ref name=raber/> From the [[Litter (animal)|litter]], puppies who were likable and looked suitable were chosen.<ref name=raber/> Because of this strict selection, and because puppies were often kept in their original neighborhood, the appearance and character of the dogs remained stable.<ref name=raber/> Practical matters were important when selecting the dog and dictated appearance.<ref name=raber/> It isn't known how much attention was given to colors, but it is possible that irregularly or asymmetrically marked dogs were considered less desirable.<ref name=raber/> |
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| ⚫ | Although Heim has said that the big butcher dogs, Metzgerhund, became extinct after foreign imports became more popular, there is speculation over whether farmers would get an expensive foreign dog.<ref name=raber/> In 1889 an International Dog Show was held in [[Winterthur]], northern Switzerland; various Sennenhunde were exhibited.<ref>{{cite report|title=Origin and Historical Background of Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs|publisher=Greater Swiss Mountain.Com|url=http://www.greaterswissmountain.com/|access-date=May 5, 2010 |
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[[Image:Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Bello v Schlossgut.PNG|thumb|alt=A photograph of the 1908 Greater Swiss Mountain Dog.|Bello v Schlossgut, SSB 3965, first shown in 1908.]] |
[[Image:Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Bello v Schlossgut.PNG|thumb|alt=A photograph of the 1908 Greater Swiss Mountain Dog.|Bello v Schlossgut, SSB 3965, first shown in 1908.]] |
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In 1908 the Swiss mountain dog appeared for the first time in public.<ref name=raber/> At a show in [[Langenthal, Switzerland]], Franz Schertenleib – a breeder of the Berner – showed an extraordinarily strong, short-haired Berner Sennenhund.<ref name=raber/> He had seen this dog and bought him as an oddity.<ref name=raber/> He was eager to hear what the Langenthal judge, Professor Heim, would say about this short-haired Berner.<ref name=raber/> Bello vom Schlossgut was beautifully marked, {{convert|26|in|cm|abbr=on}} high, sturdy, and with attractive colors.<ref name=raber/> Heim's first look saw the possibility of a new breed of Sennenhunde.<ref name=raber/> He remembered having seen similar dogs in the 1860s in various parts of Switzerland.<ref name=raber/> He said to Schertenleib, "The dog belongs in a different category; he is too gorgeous and thoroughbred to push him aside as a poor example of a Berner. He is an example of the old-time, almost extinct, butcher dog."<ref name=raber/> Heim wrote in his judge's notes: "Bello is a marvelous, old Sennen (Butcher) hund of the large, almost extinct breed. Had he been entered under "other breeds" I would have recognized him as grossen Sennenhund and awarded him first prize with pleasure. Since he was entered among the Durrbachs, I cannot give this interesting dog more than second prize. This dog is out of place here."<ref name=raber/> |
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Heim gave Bello the name Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund and dismissed the first representative of a newly named breed from the ring.<ref name=raber/> Heim wrote the first standard based on Bello, and Schertenleib started to search for other members of the new breed.<ref name=raber/> He found two short-haired bitches and breeding began.<ref name=raber/> The first Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs were stockier and rougher than the modern dogs; the skulls were wider than desirable today and showed a marked stop.<ref name=raber/> Judging from old pictures, the coloring was bad; the black coat was mixed with yellow wool at the neck, flanks and rear.<ref name=raber/> |
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===20th-century development=== |
===20th-century development=== |
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In 1945 over 100 puppies were registered, indicating the existence of about 350–400 dogs of the breed at that time.<ref name="Bern Museum"/> |
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The breed was first recognised internationally in 1939, when the Swiss Standard was first published by the [[Fédération Cynologique Internationale]].<ref name=fci/> In 1968 the breed was imported into the U.S |
The breed was first recognised internationally in 1939, when the Swiss Standard was first published by the [[Fédération Cynologique Internationale]].<ref name=fci/> In 1968 the breed was imported into the U.S.<ref name=gsmdca/> |
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There are a number of Greater Swiss that have been noted in the media. Network, owned by Sun Microsystems CEO, Scott McNealy, served as their mascot.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB1032895323287778153|title=Corporate Mascots Are Feeling Unwanted as Moods Turn Sour|author=Suein L. Hwang|date=September 25, 2002|access-date=November 23, 2021|website=Wsj.com}}</ref> Mouse, a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog living in Austin, TX served as the mascot of Keep Austin Dog Friendly.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/KeepAustinDogFriendly/|title=Log in or sign up to view|website=Facebook.com|access-date=November 23, 2021}}</ref> Oscar the Grouch,<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://swissyisland.com/|title=Home of Greater Swiss Mountain Grand Champion Dog Oscar The Grouch|website=Swissyisland.com|access-date=November 23, 2021}}</ref> a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, was featured in the front page of ''The Wall Street Journal'' <ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052970204795304577219643566702620 | work=The Wall Street Journal | first=Ben | last=Cohen | title=Local Guy Is a Westminster Underdog to Root For | date=February 13, 2012}}</ref> as he prepared to compete at the Westminster Dog Show. According to the AKC, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are 88th in popularity as a breed.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.akc.org/news/index.cfm?article_id=4293 |title=American Kennel Club Announces Most Popular Dogs in the U.S.|website=Akc.org |access-date=February 6, 2014}}</ref> |
There are a number of Greater Swiss that have been noted in the media. Network, owned by Sun Microsystems CEO, Scott McNealy, served as their mascot.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB1032895323287778153|title=Corporate Mascots Are Feeling Unwanted as Moods Turn Sour|author=Suein L. Hwang|date=September 25, 2002|access-date=November 23, 2021|website=Wsj.com}}</ref> Mouse, a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog living in Austin, TX served as the mascot of Keep Austin Dog Friendly.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/KeepAustinDogFriendly/|title=Log in or sign up to view|website=Facebook.com|access-date=November 23, 2021}}</ref> Oscar the Grouch,<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://swissyisland.com/|title=Home of Greater Swiss Mountain Grand Champion Dog Oscar The Grouch|website=Swissyisland.com|access-date=November 23, 2021}}</ref> a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, was featured in the front page of ''The Wall Street Journal'' <ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052970204795304577219643566702620 | work=The Wall Street Journal | first=Ben | last=Cohen | title=Local Guy Is a Westminster Underdog to Root For | date=February 13, 2012}}</ref> as he prepared to compete at the Westminster Dog Show. According to the AKC, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are 88th in popularity as a breed.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.akc.org/news/index.cfm?article_id=4293 |title=American Kennel Club Announces Most Popular Dogs in the U.S.|website=Akc.org |access-date=February 6, 2014}}</ref> |
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==Appearance== |
==Appearance== |
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it is a large, heavy-boned dog with incredible physical strength.<ref name=gsmdca>{{Cite web|title=The Beginner's Guide to the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog|author=Wallace, Anna|publisher=Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club of America|url=http://www.gsmdca.org/breed-information/history/|access-date=April 27, 2019|archive-date=June 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210621160422/http://www.gsmdca.org/breed-information/history/|url-status=dead}}</ref> |
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===Coat=== |
===Coat=== |
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[[File:Blue greater swiss.jpg|thumb|Blue Greater Swiss Mountain Dog]] |
[[File:Blue greater swiss.jpg|thumb|Blue Greater Swiss Mountain Dog]] |
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There is black on top of the dog's back, ears, tail and the majority of the legs.<ref name=fci/> There should be rust on the cheeks, a thumb print above the eyes, and also rust should appear on the legs between the white and black.<ref name=fci/> There should be white on the muzzle, the feet, the tip of the tail, on the chest, and up from the muzzle to pass between the eyes.<ref name=fci/> Symmetry in markings and coloring are not a priority in the American Kennel Club standard for the breed. Function and temperament are prioritized as the dog must work. It is common to hear the phrase "the head doesn't pull the cart" or "markings don't pull the cart" to mean that cosmetic features are not highly valued. |
There is black on top of the dog's back, ears, tail and the majority of the legs.<ref name=fci/> There should be rust on the cheeks, a thumb print above the eyes, and also rust should appear on the legs between the white and black.<ref name=fci/> There should be white on the muzzle, the feet, the tip of the tail, on the chest, and up from the muzzle to pass between the eyes.<ref name=fci/> Symmetry in markings and coloring are not a priority in the American Kennel Club standard for the breed. Function and temperament are prioritized as the dog must work. It is common to hear the phrase "the head doesn't pull the cart" or "markings don't pull the cart" to mean that cosmetic features are not highly valued.{{citation needed|date=February 2024}} |
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[[File:FORBINO2.jpg|thumb|Greater Swiss Mountain Dog]] |
[[File:FORBINO2.jpg|thumb|Greater Swiss Mountain Dog]] |
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The double [[Coat (dog)|coat]] has a dense outer coat of about {{convert|1.25|to|2|in|cm|abbr=on}} long. Textures of the topcoat can range from short, straight and fine to longer, wavier and coarser.<ref name=gsmdca/> The under coat is thick and ranges from the preferred dark gray to light gray to tawny, and must be on the neck, but can be all over the body<ref name=akc/> – with such a thick coat, Sennenhunde shed throughout the year and they have a [[moult#Dogs|major shedding]] once or twice a year.<ref name="riggsbee">{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4SfJF-599b0C|title=Bernese Mountain Dogs: Everything About Purchase, Care, Nutrition, Behavior, and Training|author=Riggsbee, Nikki|publisher=Barron's Complete Pet Owner's Manual|year=2007|isbn=9780764135927|access-date=May 1, 2010}}</ref>{{rp|5}} |
The double [[Coat (dog)|coat]] has a dense outer coat of about {{convert|1.25|to|2|in|cm|abbr=on}} long. Textures of the topcoat can range from short, straight and fine to longer, wavier and coarser.<ref name=gsmdca/> The under coat is thick and ranges from the preferred dark gray to light gray to tawny, and must be on the neck, but can be all over the body<ref name=akc/> – with such a thick coat, Sennenhunde shed throughout the year and they have a [[moult#Dogs|major shedding]] once or twice a year.<ref name="riggsbee">{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4SfJF-599b0C|title=Bernese Mountain Dogs: Everything About Purchase, Care, Nutrition, Behavior, and Training|author=Riggsbee, Nikki|publisher=Barron's Complete Pet Owner's Manual|year=2007|isbn=9780764135927|access-date=May 1, 2010}}</ref>{{rp|5}} |
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===Size=== |
===Size=== |
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Males range between {{convert|25.5| |
Males range between {{convert|25.5|and|28.5|in|cm|abbr=on}} at the shoulder and females range between {{convert|23.5|and|27|in|cm|abbr=on}} at the shoulder.<ref name=gsmdca/> There is no standard for weight in the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog; males tend to range between {{convert|90|and|140|lb|kg|abbr=on}} and females range between {{convert|80|and|110|lb|kg|abbr=on}}.<ref name=gsmdca/> Body length to height is approximately a 10 to 9 proportion; they are slightly longer than tall.<ref name=akc/> |
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===Conformation=== |
===Conformation=== |
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====Head==== |
====Head==== |
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Their eyes are almond-shaped, vary in color from hazel to chestnut – dark brown is preferred – medium-sized, and neither deep-set nor protruding.<ref name=akc/> |
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The medium-sized ears are set high, triangular in shape, gently rounded at the tip and hang close to the head when relaxed.<ref name=akc/> When alert, the ears are brought forward and raised at the base.<ref name=akc/> The top of the ear is level with the top of the skull.<ref name=akc/> |
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The skull is flat and broad with a slight stop.<ref name=akc/> The backskull and muzzle are approximately equal in length; the backskull is approximately twice the width of the muzzle.<ref name=akc/> The muzzle is large, blunt and straight, and most often has a slight rise before the end.<ref name=akc/> In adult dogs the nose leather is always black.<ref name=akc/> |
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The lips are clean and as a dry-mouthed breed, flews are only slightly developed.<ref name=akc/> They should not drool.<ref name=gsmdca/> The teeth meet in a scissors bite.<ref name=akc/> |
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====Neck, topline and body==== |
====Neck, topline and body==== |
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[[Image:Duży szwajcarski pies pasterski 72.jpg|thumb|right|alt=This sitting Greater Swiss Mountain Dog exhibits the preferred forequarters of the breed.|This Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has strong, well-muscled shoulders; straight, strong forelegs; slightly sloping pasterns and well-rounded feet.]] |
[[Image:Duży szwajcarski pies pasterski 72.jpg|thumb|right|alt=This sitting Greater Swiss Mountain Dog exhibits the preferred forequarters of the breed.|This Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has strong, well-muscled shoulders; straight, strong forelegs; slightly sloping pasterns and well-rounded feet.]] |
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the croup is the fused [[Sacrum|sacral vertebrae]] that form the roof of the pelvis and the first few vertebrae of the tail.<ref>{{cite report|title=The Illustrated Standard of the German Shepherd Dog: The Hindquarters| last=Shaw |first=Linda|year=2003 |url=http://www.shawlein.com/The_Standard/05_The_Hindquarters/The_Hindquarters.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100102035344/http://www.shawlein.com/The_Standard/05_The_Hindquarters/The_Hindquarters.html |archive-date=January 2, 2010 |access-date=April 30, 2010}}</ref> |
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A dog walks on its toes like a horse does; a dog's [[pastern]] and paws are analogous to the back of a human's hand and fingers, respectively.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Canine feet|journal=Dog Owner's Guide|url=http://www.canismajor.com/dog/feet.html|access-date=April 30, 2010}}</ref> The pasterns slope very slightly, but are not weak.<ref name=akc/> Feet are round and compact with well-arched toes; the feet turn neither in nor out.<ref name=akc/> |
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====Hindquarters==== |
====Hindquarters==== |
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<ref name=akc/> broad, strong and muscular hindquarters, and proper angles between the [[Stifle joint|stifles]] and [[Hock (zoology)|hock]]s are essential for a draft dog to provide powerful rear-drive during movement.<ref name=gsmdca/> The breed standard 'bend of stifle' refers to where the upper and the lower thighs meet.<ref>{{cite report|title=The Stifles|last=Lanting| first=Fred |author-link=Fred Lanting|year=2001|url=http://www.dogstuff.info/stifles.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080613204117/http://www.dogstuff.info/stifles.html|archive-date=June 13, 2008|access-date=April 30, 2010}}</ref> The hock joint corresponds to the human ankle and first short bones in the foot; the dog does not walk on the heel as people do.<ref>{{cite report|title=Orthopedic Problems in Hocks|last=Lanting |first= Fred |author-link=Fred Lanting|year=1995| publisher=Mastiff Reporter| url=http://www.dogstuff.info/orthopedic_problems_in_hocks.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080407181851/http://www.dogstuff.info/orthopedic_problems_in_hocks.html|archive-date=April 7, 2008|access-date=April 30, 2010}}</ref> |
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====Gait==== |
====Gait==== |
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<ref name=pets>{{cite web|title=Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs|url=http://www.terrificpets.com/dog_breeds/greater_swiss_mountain_dog.asp|access-date=April 30, 2010}}</ref> |
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==Temperament== |
==Temperament== |
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The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is happy with an enthusiastic nature and strong affinity to people and children.<ref name=gsmdca/> This breed is sociable, active, calm and dignified.<ref name=breed>{{cite journal|title=Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Information|website=JustDogBreeds.com|url=http://www.justdogbreeds.com/greater-swiss-mountain-dog.html|access-date=May 1, 2010}}</ref> While the breed does need exercise, they do not need a vast space. The breed often stands close to their owners, rarely straying far away without checking in |
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is happy with an enthusiastic nature and strong affinity to people and children.<ref name=gsmdca/> This breed is sociable, active, calm and dignified.<ref name=breed>{{cite journal|title=Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Information|website=JustDogBreeds.com|url=http://www.justdogbreeds.com/greater-swiss-mountain-dog.html|access-date=May 1, 2010}}</ref> While the breed does need exercise, they do not need a vast space. The breed often stands close to their owners, rarely straying far away without checking in.<ref name=breed/> |
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The activity level in the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is variable.<ref name=gsmdca/> They are capable of being athletic, but usually that activity is in bursts; they are active for short periods of time followed by napping.<ref name=gsmdca/> They want to be with their owners and to participate; their activity level most often matches the activity level of the family.<ref name=gsmdca/> As a working dog, they like having a job to do and enjoy participating in hiking, carting, obedience trials, herding, weight pulling and backpacking with their owners.<ref name=akc/> |
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Being alert and vigilant,<ref name=akc/> the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a good watchdog.<ref name=gsmdca/> They tend to notice everything in their surroundings and are quick to sound alarm.<ref name=gsmdca/> Faced with a threat, they will stand their ground and put on a show that will intimidate those unfamiliar with the dog.<ref name=gsmdca/> Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are accepting of a non-threatening stranger.<ref name=gsmdca/> They are confident and comfortable in unfamiliar locations, and are stable around strange noises and unfamiliar people.<ref name=gsmdca/> They are accepting of other dogs and species, and are reluctant to bite.<ref name=gsmdca/> |
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This giant breed matures slowly in both mind and body, taking anywhere from 2 to 3 years. The objective in training this dog is for the owner to build trust through humane methods. As youngsters, they can be quite boisterous and they do require steady and reliable training to develop manners and physical self-control.<ref name=gsmdca/> As with all large, active working dogs, this breed should be well socialized early in life with other dogs and people, and be provided with regular activity and training.<ref name=gsmdca/> |
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==Health== |
==Health== |
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For the most part, this breed is relatively healthy for their size; Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs have far fewer problems than more populous breeds in the similar size range.<ref name=gsmdca/> |
For the most part, this breed is relatively healthy for their size; Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs have far fewer problems than more populous breeds in the similar size range.<ref name=gsmdca/> |
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===Urinary incontinence=== |
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[[Urinary incontinence]] (UI) is defined as involuntary urination, and most often occurs in Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs as leaking of urine while sleeping; it is a non-life-threatening condition.<ref name=gsmdca/> It seems that more than 20% of the females are affected, usually after being spayed.<ref name=gsmdca/> Incontinence is occasionally found in males as well.<ref name=gsmdca/> Incontinence can occur for many reasons, such as a weak bladder [[Urethral sphincter|sphincter]] – generally the most common cause in Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs – urinary tract infection, excessive water consumption, congenital structural defects and spinal cord disease.<ref name=gsmdca/> |
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===Eyelash issues=== |
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The two most common eye issues that Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs face are [[distichia]]sis and entropion, with distichiasis being the most common issue.<ref name=gsmdca/> Distichiasis is the presence of extra eyelashes along the eyelid.<ref name=gsmdca/> Distichiasis has been reported in 19%, of the breed and in the vast majority of cases it is non-symptomatic and does not cause an issue for the dog.<ref name=gsmdca/> Extra eyelashes can be seen along the eyelid; sometimes extra eyelashes grow so that they irritate the eye.<ref name=gsmdca/> Treatment varies from vet to vet, some choosing to freeze the affected hair follicles and others choosing to use electrocautery. Most cases do not require any treatment.<ref name=gsmdca/> |
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Entropion, found in about 3% of the breed, is the rolling in of the eyelids, which causes the eyelashes to irritate the eye.<ref name=gsmdca/> Entropion is a condition that often requires surgery to fix, but once corrected causes no future issues for the dog.<ref name=gsmdca/> |
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===Lick fit=== |
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Lick fit is the frantic licking in which Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs can be prone.<ref name=gsmdca/> This has been reported in 17% of the breed.<ref name=gsmdca/> When in the middle of a lick fit, the dog will lick anything they can — carpet, floors, walls — and will eat anything they can find, including grass, leaves, dirt, carpet, and will gulp air and swallow constantly.<ref name=gsmdca/> Their actions make it obvious they are in severe gastrointestinal discomfort.<ref name=gsmdca/> Many owners are able to prevent lick fits by ensuring the dog never has an empty stomach by frequent, smaller meals and large dog biscuits as between meal snacks.<ref name=gsmdca/> |
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===Epilepsy=== |
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Idiopathic [[Epilepsy in animals#Diagnosis|Epilepsy]] (IE) is the condition of frequent seizures with no identifiable cause.<ref name=gsmdca/> Seizures occur when nerve cells in the brain become hyperexcited and send rapid-fire messages to the body.<ref name=gsmdca/> Treatment of IE depends on the severity of the case and may involve daily administration of anticonvulsant drugs.<ref name=gsmdca/> IE is present in all Greater Swiss Mountain Dog lines; it typically surfaces between the ages of 1 to 3 years, but it can become evident as early as 12 months and as late as 5 years.<ref name=gsmdca/> |
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===Abdominal health issues=== |
===Abdominal health issues=== |
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| ⚫ | The [[spleen]] is located in the left cranial abdomen and is held loosely in place by ligaments.<ref name=spleen>{{cite report|title=Splenic Torsion in a 3 year old male intact Greater Swiss Mountain dog| last=Perkins |first=Ranetta|year=2009|url=http://ecommons.library.cornell.edu/handle/1813/12758|access-date=October 14, 2012|hdl= 1813/12758 }}</ref>{{rp|1}} Primary diseases of the spleen are splenic torsion and splenic tumors.<ref name=spleen/>{{rp|2}} Splenic torsion occurs when the spleen twists along the axis of the blood supply.<ref name=spleen/>{{rp|2}} Symptoms of splenic torsion include lethargy, abdominal distension and pale mucous membranes.<ref name=spleen/>{{rp|2}} One theory for the development of splenic torsion is that for dogs with chronic intermittent gastric dilatation, the dilation causes the spleen's ligaments to stretch and increases the spleen's mobility within the abdomen.<ref name=spleen/>{{rp|8}} The spleen becomes torsed because it is no longer anchored in its correct location.<ref name=spleen/>{{rp|8}} |
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[[Gastric dilatation volvulus]] (GDV), also known as bloat, is the greatest killer of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog.<ref name=gsmdca/> GDV occurs in deep-chested breeds and requires immediate veterinary care.<ref name=gsmdca/> It can be caused by wolfing down too much water, too much food too fast, exercise after eating, stress or unknown conditions.<ref name=gsmdca/> Symptoms are distended abdomen, excessive salivating, depression and lethargy.<ref name=gsmdca/> When GDV occurs it cuts off the esophagus, and blood supply to the heart is lessened causing low blood pressure as well as other cardiac problems; the dog can go into shock.<ref name=gsmdca/> Organ damage can occur as well and the stomach may rupture causing [[peritonitis]] to set in.<ref name=gsmdca/> If not treated, the dog may die.<ref name=gsmdca/> |
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| ⚫ | The [[spleen]] is located in the left cranial abdomen and is held loosely in place by ligaments.<ref name=spleen>{{cite report|title=Splenic Torsion in a 3 year old male intact Greater Swiss Mountain dog| last=Perkins |first=Ranetta|year=2009|url=http://ecommons.library.cornell.edu/handle/1813/12758|access-date=October 14, 2012}}</ref>{{rp|1}} Primary diseases of the spleen are splenic torsion and splenic tumors.<ref name=spleen/>{{rp|2}} Splenic torsion occurs when the spleen twists along the axis of the blood supply.<ref name=spleen/>{{rp|2}} Symptoms of splenic torsion include lethargy, abdominal distension and pale mucous membranes.<ref name=spleen/>{{rp|2}} One theory for the development of splenic torsion is that for dogs with chronic intermittent gastric dilatation, the dilation causes the spleen's ligaments to stretch and increases the spleen's mobility within the abdomen.<ref name=spleen/>{{rp|8}} The spleen becomes torsed because it is no longer anchored in its correct location.<ref name=spleen/>{{rp|8}} |
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===Dysplasias=== |
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Canine [[Hip dysplasia (canine)|hip dysplasia]] (CHD) is the irregular formation of the joint that joins the [[femur]] – the longest bone in the body – to the [[Acetabulum|hip socket]].<ref name=gsmdca/> The hip is a ball-and-socket joint and the femoral head must fit well into the socket for the joint to function properly.<ref name=gsmdca/> Early signs of CHD include a reluctance to go up and down stairs or to jump; difficulty rising or lying down; and bunny hopping when running – both hind limbs move together.<ref name=gsmdca/> CHD is among the principal orthopedic diseases in the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog; it is rarely severe and crippling.<ref name=gsmdca/> Unless x-rays are taken many owners are not aware that they have a dysplastic dog.<ref name=gsmdca/> A goal for raising a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog from puppyhood is to feed them so they mature more slowly than smaller breeds to help avoid hip and other orthopedic problems in adulthood.<ref>{{cite book|title=Puppy's First Steps: The Whole-Dog Approach to Raising a Happy, Healthy, Well-Behaved Puppy|last1=Dodman |first1=Nicholas H.|last2=Lindner | first2=Lawrence| year=2007| isbn=9780618663040|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=u9zkb8Q-iGUC&q=%22greater+swiss+mountain+dog%22 |access-date=May 1, 2010| page=87}}</ref> |
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The form of Canine Elbow [[Dysplasia]] most often diagnosed in Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs appears to be a [[Osteoarthritis|degenerative joint disease]] – a slowly progressive form of [[cartilage]] degeneration usually caused by trauma or abnormal wear on the joint.<ref name=gsmdca/> Evidence suggests that most dogs of this breed diagnosed with degenerative joint disease by x-rays of the elbows have the mildest form Grade I.<ref name=gsmdca/> They do not display clinical signs such as pain, stiffness, decreased range of motion or lameness.<ref name=gsmdca/> |
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[[Osteochondrosis]] is a disturbance in the normal development of cartilage; cartilage becomes abnormally thickened, and small fissures and cracks may develop.<ref name=gsmdca/> Dissecans is when cartilage becomes dissected resulting in cartilage flaps, which may remain attached or become loose and fall into the joint space.<ref name=gsmdca/> In Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs most of these cases occur in the shoulder joints and occasionally in elbows and hocks.<ref name=gsmdca/> Except for very mild cases without flap development, the clinical signs are persistent or intermittent lameness.<ref name=gsmdca/> The dog may be stiff after resting and the lameness is usually aggravated by exercise.<ref name=gsmdca/> It is diagnosed by x-rays, and treatment depends on the severity of the case.<ref name=gsmdca/> Mild cases without cartilage flaps may be treated and heal with several weeks of rest and treatment with medication and supplements.<ref name=gsmdca/> Many cases require surgery to remove the flaps and loose fragments, and scraping and smoothing of the defective surface.<ref name=gsmdca/> Surgical repair of the shoulder usually has excellent results, surgical results involving other sites are not as predictable.<ref name=gsmdca/> |
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==Lifespan== |
==Lifespan== |
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Heavier dogs such as the Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs tend to have shorter lifespans than medium- and small-sized dogs;<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thegoodypet.com/dog-life-expectancy-calculator|title=How Long Will Your Dog Live|access-date=2019-03-01}}</ref> longevity is inversely related to breed size.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Genetic Mapping of Fixed Phenotypes: Disease Frequency as a Breed Characteristic |author1=Chase, Kevin |author2=Jones, Paul |author3=Martin, Alan |author4=Ostrander, Elaine A. |author5=Lark, Karl G. |journal=Journal of Heredity|volume=100|pages=S37–41|date=March 25, 2009 |doi=10.1093/jhered/esp011 |url= |pmid=19321632 |pmc=3139361 |issue=suppl_1}}</ref> Two websites list the life expectancy for Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs at 10 to 11 years;<ref>{{cite web| |
Heavier dogs such as the Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs tend to have shorter lifespans than medium- and small-sized dogs;<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thegoodypet.com/dog-life-expectancy-calculator|title=How Long Will Your Dog Live|access-date=2019-03-01}}</ref> longevity is inversely related to breed size.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Genetic Mapping of Fixed Phenotypes: Disease Frequency as a Breed Characteristic |author1=Chase, Kevin |author2=Jones, Paul |author3=Martin, Alan |author4=Ostrander, Elaine A. |author5=Lark, Karl G. |journal=Journal of Heredity|volume=100|pages=S37–41|date=March 25, 2009 |doi=10.1093/jhered/esp011 |url= |pmid=19321632 |pmc=3139361 |issue=suppl_1}}</ref> Two websites list the life expectancy for Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs at 10 to 11 years;<ref>{{cite web|title=Greater Swiss Mountain Dog|url=http://puppydogweb.com/caninebreeds/greaterswissmountaindog.htm|website=Puppydogweb.com|access-date=May 1, 2010|archive-date=March 2, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190302024642/https://puppydogweb.com/caninebreeds/greaterswissmountaindog.htm|url-status=dead}}</ref> another lists it as 8–10 years.<ref name=breed/> A survey by the US breed club shows a median lifespan of 6.75 years.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gsmdca.homestead.com/BreedInformation/Health/healthsurveyconclusions.pdf|title=Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club of America Breed Health Survey 2000 & 2001: Conclusions|date=October 2002|publisher=Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club of America Health Committee| access-date=April 6, 2011}}</ref> Dog lifespans may vary in different countries, even in the same breed.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://users.pullman.com/lostriver/survey_comparisons.htm |title=Survey Comparisons |work=Dog Longevity |last=Cassidy |first=Kelly M. |date=December 26, 2007 |access-date=April 3, 2011}}</ref> |
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==Kennel club and pet registry recognition== |
==Kennel club and pet registry recognition== |
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*The Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund, or Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, is recognised internationally by the [[Fédération Cynologique Internationale]] (FCI).<ref name=fci/> They are in Group 2, Section 3 Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs; standards are dated March 25, 2003.<ref name=fci>{{cite |
*The Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund, or Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, is recognised internationally by the [[Fédération Cynologique Internationale]] (FCI).<ref name=fci/> They are in Group 2, Section 3 Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs; standards are dated March 25, 2003.<ref name=fci>{{cite web |title=Fédération Cynologique Internationale for Dogs Worldwide|url=http://www.fci.be/nomenclature.aspx|website=Fci.be|access-date=May 4, 2010}}</ref> The first standard was published not before February 5, 1939.<ref name=fci/> |
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*The American Kennel Club (AKC) fully recognized the breed in 1995,<ref name=akc/> and classifies them in the Working Group.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Cognition in Domestic Dogs: Object Permanence & Social Cueing |
*The American Kennel Club (AKC) fully recognized the breed in 1995,<ref name=akc/> and classifies them in the Working Group.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Cognition in Domestic Dogs: Object Permanence & Social Cueing |author1=Clotfelter, Ethan D.|author2=Hollis, Karen L.|journal= The American Biology Teacher |volume=70|issue=5|date=May 2008 <!--|url=http://google.com/scholar?q=cache:xp6SVCA9r-sJ:scholar.google.com/+%22greater+swiss+mountain+dog%22%22&hl=en&as_sdt=800000000|access-date=May 1, 2010 link not found--> |page=293 |doi=10.1662/0002-7685(2008)70[293:CIDDOP]2.0.CO;2 }}</ref> |
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*The [[Canadian Kennel Club]] recognized the breed in 2006, and also places the breed in the [[Working Group (dogs)|Working Group]].<ref>{{cite book|title=Canadian Kennel Club|url=http://www.ckc.ca/en/Portals/0/pdf/breeds/GSM.pdf|access-date=May 3, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110527025937/http://www.ckc.ca/en/Portals/0/pdf/breeds/GSM.pdf|archive-date=May 27, 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref> |
*The [[Canadian Kennel Club]] recognized the breed in 2006, and also places the breed in the [[Working Group (dogs)|Working Group]].<ref>{{cite book|title=Canadian Kennel Club|url=http://www.ckc.ca/en/Portals/0/pdf/breeds/GSM.pdf|access-date=May 3, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110527025937/http://www.ckc.ca/en/Portals/0/pdf/breeds/GSM.pdf|archive-date=May 27, 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref> |
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*The [[United Kennel Club]] recognized the breed in 1992; they place the breed in the [[Guardian Dog Group]].<ref>{{cite book|title=United Kennel Club|url=http://www.ukcdogs.com/WebSite.nsf/Breeds/GreaterSwissMountainDogRevisedMay12008|access-date=May 3, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090709033827/http://www.ukcdogs.com/WebSite.nsf/Breeds/GreaterSwissMountainDogRevisedMay12008|archive-date=July 9, 2009|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref> |
*The [[United Kennel Club]] recognized the breed in 1992; they place the breed in the [[Guardian Dog Group]].<ref>{{cite book|title=United Kennel Club|url=http://www.ukcdogs.com/WebSite.nsf/Breeds/GreaterSwissMountainDogRevisedMay12008|access-date=May 3, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090709033827/http://www.ukcdogs.com/WebSite.nsf/Breeds/GreaterSwissMountainDogRevisedMay12008|archive-date=July 9, 2009|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref> |
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The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is considered the oldest of the Swiss breeds.<ref name=gsmdca/> It is the largest of the four Sennenhund breeds; all four have the same colors and markings, but are different sizes. |
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is considered the oldest of the Swiss breeds.<ref name=gsmdca/> It is the largest of the four Sennenhund breeds; all four have the same colors and markings, but are different sizes. |
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Evolutionary hierarchy suggests breeds should genetically cluster into groups sharing recent common ancestry.<ref name=genome>{{cite journal|title=The canine genome|author1=Ostrander, Elaine A.|author2=Wayne, Robert K.|journal=Genome Research|year=2005|volume=15 |issue=12 |pages=1706–1716 |doi=10.1101/gr.3736605|doi-access=free}}</ref> A genetic clustering algorithm could not easily distinguish between the obviously related pairs of Greater Swiss Mountain Dog and the Bernese Mountain Dog.<ref name=genome/> |
Evolutionary hierarchy suggests breeds should genetically cluster into groups sharing recent common ancestry.<ref name=genome>{{cite journal|title=The canine genome|author1=Ostrander, Elaine A.|author2=Wayne, Robert K.|journal=Genome Research|year=2005|volume=15 |issue=12 |pages=1706–1716 |doi=10.1101/gr.3736605|pmid=16339369 |doi-access=free}}</ref> A genetic clustering algorithm could not easily distinguish between the obviously related pairs of Greater Swiss Mountain Dog and the Bernese Mountain Dog.<ref name=genome/> |
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The four breeds of Sennenhund, with the original breed name followed by the most popular English version of the breed name: |
The four breeds of Sennenhund, with the original breed name followed by the most popular English version of the breed name: |
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==Similar breeds== |
==Similar breeds== |
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In addition to the three breeds mentioned in the previous section, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are related to other mountain dogs: [[Boxer (dog)|Boxer]]s, [[Bullmastiff]]s, [[Dobermann|Doberman Pinscher]]s, [[Great Dane]]s, [[Pyrenean Mountain Dog|Great Pyrenees]], [[Komondor]]s, [[Kuvasz]]es and mastiffs.<ref>{{cite book|title=Adopt a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog|publisher=Petfinder|url=http://www.petfinder.com/dog-breeds/Greater-Swiss-Mountain-Dog|access-date=May 5, 2010}}</ref> The breed probably contributed to the development of the [[St. Bernard (dog)|St. Bernard]] and the [[Rottweiler]]. |
In addition to the three breeds mentioned in the previous section, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are related to other mountain dogs: [[Boxer (dog)|Boxer]]s, [[Bullmastiff]]s, [[Dobermann|Doberman Pinscher]]s, [[Great Dane]]s, [[Pyrenean Mountain Dog|Great Pyrenees]], [[Komondor]]s, [[Kuvasz]]es and mastiffs.<ref>{{cite book|title=Adopt a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog|publisher=Petfinder|url=http://www.petfinder.com/dog-breeds/Greater-Swiss-Mountain-Dog|access-date=May 5, 2010|archive-date=February 13, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213071230/https://www.petfinder.com/dog-breeds/greater-swiss-mountain-dog/|url-status=dead}}</ref> The breed probably contributed to the development of the [[St. Bernard (dog)|St. Bernard]] and the [[Rottweiler]]. |
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==See also== |
==See also== |
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{{commons|Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund}} |
{{commons|Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund}} |
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* {{curlie|Recreation/Pets/Dogs/Breeds/Working_Group/Greater_Swiss_Mountain_Dog/}} |
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* [https://web.archive.org/web/20090226070108/http://www.nmbe.ch/deutsch/531_5_2_1.html Historical photos of the Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund] from the [[Bern]] [[List of natural history museums|Naturaidogsarebad History Museum]] |
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20090226070108/http://www.nmbe.ch/deutsch/531_5_2_1.html Historical photos of the Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund] from the [[Bern]] [[List of natural history museums|Naturaidogsarebad History Museum]] |
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* [https://web.archive.org/web/20090316082405/http://albert-heim-stiftung.ch/stiftung/albert_heim.html More information about geologist and indigenous Swiss dog breeds advocate Albert Heim (1849-1937), including a photo with Swiss Mountain Dogs in 1929] (in German) |
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20090316082405/http://albert-heim-stiftung.ch/stiftung/albert_heim.html More information about geologist and indigenous Swiss dog breeds advocate Albert Heim (1849-1937), including a photo with Swiss Mountain Dogs in 1929] (in German) |
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Latest revision as of 03:22, 1 December 2024
 | This article possibly contains original research. (March 2024) |
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The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog (German: Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund or French: Grand Bouvier Suisse) is a dog breed which was developed in the Swiss Alps. The name Sennenhund refers to people called Senn or Senner, dairymen and herders in the Swiss Alps. Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are almost certainly the result of indigenous dogs mating with large mastiff-type dogs brought to Switzerland by foreign settlers.[1] It was assumed to have almost died out by the late 19th century, since its work was being done by other breeds or machines, but was rediscovered in the early 1900s.[2]
Its breed standard calls for a black, white, and rust colored coat.
Among the four Sennenhunde, or Swiss mountain dogs, this breed is considered the oldest, and is also the largest.[1]
History
[edit]Breed history
[edit]
The origin of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is not known. Beginning in 1515, the remote valleys of Switzerland were more or less isolated from world history for three centuries. Specific dog breeds were created by inbreeding, and puppies were given to neighbors and family members.[3] [1]
Selective breeding
[edit]
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a draft and drover breed that performs well very mountainous regions.[2][4] Its popularity as a draft dog led to the nickname "the poor man's horse".[1]
Renewal of breed
[edit]
It was assumed that the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog had almost died out by the late 19th century, because their work was being done by other breeds or machines, but they were rediscovered in the early 1900s.[2]
[5] to an advocate of the Swiss mountain dogs, geology professor Albert Heim (April 12, 1849 – August 31, 1937).[6]
Heim was a Sennenhund expert, and started to encourage breeders to take an interest in them. These efforts resulted in the re-establishment of the breed.[6] The first breed club was formed in 1912 to promote the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog.[4] The Bernese Mountain Dog and the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog are two of four distinctive farm-type dogs of Swiss origin who were saved from extinction and revitalized by Schertenlieb in the late 1800s.[7]
Dr. Hans Raber commented on this discrepancy in his book, Die Schweizer Hunderassen:[3]
If this dog was commonly kept around 1870, it is unbelievable that only 30 years later you could only find him in remote valleys in the Bern area.
— Dr. Hans Raber, Die Schweizer Hunderassen
Although Heim has said that the big butcher dogs, Metzgerhund, became extinct after foreign imports became more popular, there is speculation over whether farmers would get an expensive foreign dog.[3] In 1889 an International Dog Show was held in Winterthur, northern Switzerland; various Sennenhunde were exhibited.[8]
20th-century development
[edit]In 1945 over 100 puppies were registered, indicating the existence of about 350–400 dogs of the breed at that time.[4]
The breed was first recognised internationally in 1939, when the Swiss Standard was first published by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale.[6] In 1968 the breed was imported into the U.S.[1]
There are a number of Greater Swiss that have been noted in the media. Network, owned by Sun Microsystems CEO, Scott McNealy, served as their mascot.[9] Mouse, a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog living in Austin, TX served as the mascot of Keep Austin Dog Friendly.[10] Oscar the Grouch,[11] a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, was featured in the front page of The Wall Street Journal [12] as he prepared to compete at the Westminster Dog Show. According to the AKC, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are 88th in popularity as a breed.[13]
Appearance
[edit]it is a large, heavy-boned dog with incredible physical strength.[1]
Coat
[edit]
There is black on top of the dog's back, ears, tail and the majority of the legs.[6] There should be rust on the cheeks, a thumb print above the eyes, and also rust should appear on the legs between the white and black.[6] There should be white on the muzzle, the feet, the tip of the tail, on the chest, and up from the muzzle to pass between the eyes.[6] Symmetry in markings and coloring are not a priority in the American Kennel Club standard for the breed. Function and temperament are prioritized as the dog must work. It is common to hear the phrase "the head doesn't pull the cart" or "markings don't pull the cart" to mean that cosmetic features are not highly valued.[citation needed]
The double coat has a dense outer coat of about 1.25 to 2 in (3.2 to 5.1 cm) long. Textures of the topcoat can range from short, straight and fine to longer, wavier and coarser.[1] The under coat is thick and ranges from the preferred dark gray to light gray to tawny, and must be on the neck, but can be all over the body[2] – with such a thick coat, Sennenhunde shed throughout the year and they have a major shedding once or twice a year.[14]: 5
While the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Standard calls for a black, white and rust dog; they do come in other colors which include blue, white and tan tri-color; and rust and white bi-color.[1] On the blue tri-color dogs, blue replaces where black would be and tan replaces where the rust would normally be.[1] On the rust bi-color dogs, the dog is solid rust and white markings with a total absence of black coloring.[1]
Size
[edit]Males range between 25.5 and 28.5 in (65 and 72 cm) at the shoulder and females range between 23.5 and 27 in (60 and 69 cm) at the shoulder.[1] There is no standard for weight in the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog; males tend to range between 90 and 140 lb (41 and 64 kg) and females range between 80 and 110 lb (36 and 50 kg).[1] Body length to height is approximately a 10 to 9 proportion; they are slightly longer than tall.[2]
Conformation
[edit]
Head
[edit]Their eyes are almond-shaped, vary in color from hazel to chestnut – dark brown is preferred – medium-sized, and neither deep-set nor protruding.[2]
Neck, topline and body
[edit]
the croup is the fused sacral vertebrae that form the roof of the pelvis and the first few vertebrae of the tail.[15]
The depth of the chest is approximately one-half the height of the dog at the withers,[2] and the deepest point of the chest should lie between the elbows, not above them.[1]
Forequarters
[edit]The shoulders of a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog are long, sloping, strong, moderately laid back, flat and well-muscled.[2]
Hindquarters
[edit][2] broad, strong and muscular hindquarters, and proper angles between the stifles and hocks are essential for a draft dog to provide powerful rear-drive during movement.[1] The breed standard 'bend of stifle' refers to where the upper and the lower thighs meet.[16] The hock joint corresponds to the human ankle and first short bones in the foot; the dog does not walk on the heel as people do.[17]
Gait
[edit]Temperament
[edit]The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is happy with an enthusiastic nature and strong affinity to people and children.[1] This breed is sociable, active, calm and dignified.[19] While the breed does need exercise, they do not need a vast space. The breed often stands close to their owners, rarely straying far away without checking in.[19]
Health
[edit]For the most part, this breed is relatively healthy for their size; Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs have far fewer problems than more populous breeds in the similar size range.[1]
Abdominal health issues
[edit]The spleen is located in the left cranial abdomen and is held loosely in place by ligaments.[20]: 1 Primary diseases of the spleen are splenic torsion and splenic tumors.[20]: 2 Splenic torsion occurs when the spleen twists along the axis of the blood supply.[20]: 2 Symptoms of splenic torsion include lethargy, abdominal distension and pale mucous membranes.[20]: 2 One theory for the development of splenic torsion is that for dogs with chronic intermittent gastric dilatation, the dilation causes the spleen's ligaments to stretch and increases the spleen's mobility within the abdomen.[20]: 8 The spleen becomes torsed because it is no longer anchored in its correct location.[20]: 8
Lifespan
[edit]Heavier dogs such as the Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs tend to have shorter lifespans than medium- and small-sized dogs;[21] longevity is inversely related to breed size.[22] Two websites list the life expectancy for Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs at 10 to 11 years;[23] another lists it as 8–10 years.[19] A survey by the US breed club shows a median lifespan of 6.75 years.[24] Dog lifespans may vary in different countries, even in the same breed.[25]
Kennel club and pet registry recognition
[edit]- The Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund, or Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, is recognised internationally by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).[6] They are in Group 2, Section 3 Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs; standards are dated March 25, 2003.[6] The first standard was published not before February 5, 1939.[6]
- The American Kennel Club (AKC) fully recognized the breed in 1995,[2] and classifies them in the Working Group.[26]
- The Canadian Kennel Club recognized the breed in 2006, and also places the breed in the Working Group.[27]
- The United Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1992; they place the breed in the Guardian Dog Group.[28]
- The Kennel Club, based in the United Kingdom, classifies the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog in the Working Group.[29]
- The Continental Kennel Club (CKC) lists the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog and provides minimal information about the breed.[30]
- The America's Pet Registry Inc. (APRI) does have a classified ad section for Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs.[31]
- The American Canine Registry (ACR) lists the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog as an acceptable breed under their American Canine Registry section.[32]
- As of May 2010 the breed is not recognised by the New Zealand Kennel Club or the Australian National Kennel Council.
Four breeds of Sennenhund
[edit]
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is considered the oldest of the Swiss breeds.[1] It is the largest of the four Sennenhund breeds; all four have the same colors and markings, but are different sizes.
Evolutionary hierarchy suggests breeds should genetically cluster into groups sharing recent common ancestry.[33] A genetic clustering algorithm could not easily distinguish between the obviously related pairs of Greater Swiss Mountain Dog and the Bernese Mountain Dog.[33]
The four breeds of Sennenhund, with the original breed name followed by the most popular English version of the breed name:
- Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund, Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
- Berner Sennenhund, Bernese Mountain Dog
- Appenzeller Sennenhund, Appenzeller Mountain Dog
- Entlebucher Sennenhund, Entlebucher Mountain Dog
Similar breeds
[edit]In addition to the three breeds mentioned in the previous section, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are related to other mountain dogs: Boxers, Bullmastiffs, Doberman Pinschers, Great Danes, Great Pyrenees, Komondors, Kuvaszes and mastiffs.[34] The breed probably contributed to the development of the St. Bernard and the Rottweiler.
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q Wallace, Anna. "The Beginner's Guide to the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog". Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club of America. Archived from the original on June 21, 2021. Retrieved April 27, 2019.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j "AKC Meet the Breeds: Greater Swiss Mountain Dog". America Kennel Club. Retrieved April 30, 2010.
- ^ a b c Raber, Hans (1971). Die Schweizer Hunderassen (PDF). p. Chapter 6 (revised) History of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. Archived from the original (PDF) on April 28, 2019. Retrieved April 27, 2019.
- ^ a b c Great Swiss Mountain Dog Archived February 25, 2009, at the Wayback Machine (in English), Vertebrate Animals Department, Naturhistoriches Museum der Burgergemeinde Bern
- ^ Also spelled Schertenleib.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i "Fédération Cynologique Internationale for Dogs Worldwide". Fci.be. Retrieved May 4, 2010.
- ^ Ostrander, Elaine A. (2007). The Dog and its Genome. CSHL Press. p. 141. ISBN 9780879697815. Retrieved May 1, 2010.
- ^ Origin and Historical Background of Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs (Report). Greater Swiss Mountain.Com. Archived from the original on March 18, 2013. Retrieved May 5, 2010.
- ^ Suein L. Hwang (September 25, 2002). "Corporate Mascots Are Feeling Unwanted as Moods Turn Sour". Wsj.com. Retrieved November 23, 2021.
- ^ "Log in or sign up to view". Facebook.com. Retrieved November 23, 2021.
- ^ "Home of Greater Swiss Mountain Grand Champion Dog Oscar The Grouch". Swissyisland.com. Retrieved November 23, 2021.
- ^ Cohen, Ben (February 13, 2012). "Local Guy Is a Westminster Underdog to Root For". The Wall Street Journal.
- ^ "American Kennel Club Announces Most Popular Dogs in the U.S." Akc.org. Retrieved February 6, 2014.
- ^ Riggsbee, Nikki (2007). Bernese Mountain Dogs: Everything About Purchase, Care, Nutrition, Behavior, and Training. Barron's Complete Pet Owner's Manual. ISBN 9780764135927. Retrieved May 1, 2010.
- ^ Shaw, Linda (2003). The Illustrated Standard of the German Shepherd Dog: The Hindquarters (Report). Archived from the original on January 2, 2010. Retrieved April 30, 2010.
- ^ Lanting, Fred (2001). The Stifles (Report). Archived from the original on June 13, 2008. Retrieved April 30, 2010.
- ^ Lanting, Fred (1995). Orthopedic Problems in Hocks (Report). Mastiff Reporter. Archived from the original on April 7, 2008. Retrieved April 30, 2010.
- ^ "Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs". Retrieved April 30, 2010.
- ^ a b c "Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Information". JustDogBreeds.com. Retrieved May 1, 2010.
- ^ a b c d e f Perkins, Ranetta (2009). Splenic Torsion in a 3 year old male intact Greater Swiss Mountain dog (Report). hdl:1813/12758. Retrieved October 14, 2012.
- ^ "How Long Will Your Dog Live". Retrieved March 1, 2019.
- ^ Chase, Kevin; Jones, Paul; Martin, Alan; Ostrander, Elaine A.; Lark, Karl G. (March 25, 2009). "Genetic Mapping of Fixed Phenotypes: Disease Frequency as a Breed Characteristic". Journal of Heredity. 100 (suppl_1): S37–41. doi:10.1093/jhered/esp011. PMC 3139361. PMID 19321632.
- ^ "Greater Swiss Mountain Dog". Puppydogweb.com. Archived from the original on March 2, 2019. Retrieved May 1, 2010.
- ^ "Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club of America Breed Health Survey 2000 & 2001: Conclusions" (PDF). Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club of America Health Committee. October 2002. Retrieved April 6, 2011.
- ^ Cassidy, Kelly M. (December 26, 2007). "Survey Comparisons". Dog Longevity. Retrieved April 3, 2011.
- ^ Clotfelter, Ethan D.; Hollis, Karen L. (May 2008). "Cognition in Domestic Dogs: Object Permanence & Social Cueing". The American Biology Teacher. 70 (5): 293. doi:10.1662/0002-7685(2008)70[293:CIDDOP]2.0.CO;2.
- ^ Canadian Kennel Club (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on May 27, 2011. Retrieved May 3, 2010.
- ^ United Kennel Club. Archived from the original on July 9, 2009. Retrieved May 3, 2010.
- ^ The Kennel Club. Archived from the original on May 29, 2010. Retrieved May 3, 2010.
- ^ Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. Continental Kennel Club. Retrieved May 5, 2010.
- ^ Greater Swiss Mountain Dog (Report). America's Pet Registry, Inc. Archived from the original on March 2, 2008. Retrieved May 5, 2010.
- ^ Welcome to the American Canine Registry, Home on the Web (Report). Retrieved May 5, 2010.
- ^ a b Ostrander, Elaine A.; Wayne, Robert K. (2005). "The canine genome". Genome Research. 15 (12): 1706–1716. doi:10.1101/gr.3736605. PMID 16339369.
- ^ Adopt a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. Petfinder. Archived from the original on February 13, 2023. Retrieved May 5, 2010.
External links
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund.
- Historical photos of the Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund from the Bern Naturaidogsarebad History Museum
- More information about geologist and indigenous Swiss dog breeds advocate Albert Heim (1849-1937), including a photo with Swiss Mountain Dogs in 1929 (in German)
Dogs originating in Switzerland | ||
|---|---|---|
| Extant |  | |
| Extinct | ||
