| Breed:
Appenzell Mountain Dog |
Other
Breeds |
The Appenzell Mountain Dog or Appenzeller Sennenhund is the rarest of the four Swiss Sennenhunds or Mountain Dogs, similar to the Burnese mountain dog. An excellent herder with a sure foot in the mountains; doesn't have a lazy bone in its body. It is adaptable to pulling carts and was once used to bring milk and cheese from valleys to the merchants in town. The Appenzell is a loyal dog that will guard its master's property with natural enthusiasm.
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| Height: |
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| Weight: |
50 - 70lbs |
| Temperament: |
Tough, brave, intelligent and lively; makes a great watch dog and loves to have something to do. |
| Color(s): |
Black or brown with symmetrical white and rust markings. |
| Grooming: |
Remove dead hairs occasionally with a brush. A very low maintenance pet. |
| Coat(s): |
Straight-haired double coat; very easy to care for. |
| With
Children: |
Generally good with children if it has been socialized around them. Generally bonds closely with one person. |
| With
Pets: |
Good with other dogs if it is used to them. |
| Training: |
Very intelligent and learns quickly; responds best to consistent, even-tempered training. |
| Exercise: |
Prefers to work. Loves long walks and open spaces. Find it a job and it's happiest; strong herding instinct keeps it from running off alone. |
| Health
Issues: |
A healthy breed with no major problems. |
| Housing: |
Not recommended for apartment life or urban settings. Needs a farm or large yard to exercise independently. The breed likes to bark so should be kept away from neighbors. |
| Life
Span: |
12 - 13 years |
| Country
of Origin: |
Two theories exist concerning the origin of this breed. One is that it is a native breed dating back to the Bronze Age. The other is that it descended from the Molossus and was brought into Switzerland by the Romans. |
| Conformation
Group: |
Mastiff
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