Greater Swiss Mountain dog

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a large, muscular and strong draft dog. They have a body that is longer than the dog is tall. They have strong and straight legs with compact and rounded feet. They have broad and deep seated chests with a breastbone that extends almost further than the dogs legs. These dogs have a broad and large head with a slight stop and flattish skull. Their skulls should be practically the same in length and size as the muzzle of the dog. The teeth of the dog usually meet in a scissor bite. These dogs have chestnut or hazel colored eyes. They have an intelligent and expressive expression with very attentive and alert eyes. They usually have a blunt muzzle with black nose and lips. They have pendant shaped, triangular and medium sized ears. Their ears have are usually floppy.

They have long tails that almost reach the hocks of the dog. These dogs have a double layered coat that in a beautiful tri color of rich rust, black and some white markings. These dogs are considered to be very good looking and a handsome breed of dog. These dogs have a short top coat with a rather dense undercoat. The hair is short and smooth to touch. These dogs should preferably have a symmetrical coat with an all black base. Anything other than these qualifications will be a disqualifying factor for the dogs in a show ring. Some white patches on the neck and collar are permitted. As are some markings on the tip of the tail and chest. However markings in any color other than white are not permitted.

The Greater Swiss Mountain dog is a protective, watchful, non aggressive and steady dog. These dogs are forever willing to please their owners and are exceptional with children. They are loyal and adoring pets that bond well with everyone in the family including other house pets. They are very territorial dogs and should be socialized early on to ensure they are friendly with everyone they meet. These dogs require a lot of attention and will not be happy staying for long hours away from their family. This breed of dog has a tendency to chase some small animals and needs to be trained not to chase other animals. They require some amount of training and need to have firm boundaries set for them.

These dogs are around 60-72 cm tall and usually weight around 59-61 kg. These dogs are quite prone to hip dysplasia and bloat much like other dogs of their build. These dogs are otherwise quite healthy encountering a few other illnesses from time to time. These dogs will adapt better when in a cooler climate. They will adjust to life in an apartment if they are given enough regular exercise however a small yard for the dog to roam around is preferable. They have a life expectancy of about 10-11 years. They are easy to groom and an average shedder.