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GREATER SWISS MOUNTAIN DOG |
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The "Swissy" is the largest—and
probably the oldest —of the four Swiss varieties, bred from the mastiff
types left behind by the Roman armies. It was used for centuries in rural
cantons, with no formal breeding program, as a butcher's dog and as a
draft dog pulling produce to market. Farmers loved them. The dogs worked
as hard as horses but didn't eat as much, and litters were large—up to
18 pups! The Swiss took a renewed interest
and worked to keep these dogs from dying out. In 1910, these breeders
accomplished another goal when the GSMD was accepted by the Swiss registry.
Today's Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs trace back to seven or eight animals,
a very narrow breed base. Up until the 1930s, "found-lings,"dogs
which exemplified the breed but did not possess a pedigree, were still
used in breeding programs. A problem with lack of size was conquered,
possibly by crossbreeding with smooth Bernards. Their natural
protective instinct is demonstrated by the tale of "Nero."
After an evening in the pubs, Nero's owner and his friends headed home.
Instead of following his owner as usual, Nero chose to accompany a man
who was in his cups. When the man fell in a creek, Nero fished him out,
escorted him home and stayed overnight. When the gendeman came to his
senses and opened the door the next morning, Nero immediately headed
for home. This instinct is today channeled into schutzhund training
and as watchdogs for the homes.
As peace loving
as the Swiss people, the breed is calm, even-tempered and sturdy. Not
a roamer, the Swissy hates to be tied or confined and is happiest with
his family. He still loves to pull carts or sleds, especially if the
passenger is a child.
The Swissy
is an attractive, easily groomed show dog with an aptitude for obedience.
The breed was introduced to the States in 1968, and in 1985 was accepted
into the AKC Miscellaneous Group.
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