Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Published: Last updated: by Kyle J. Larson Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

Average size and lifespan

chihuahua silhouette
great dane silhouette
Height: 1ft 11in - 2ft 5in
Weight: 85-140lbs
Lifespan: 10 - 12 Years

Behavior

  • Affection4/5
  • Kid-Friendly4/5
  • Stranger-Friendly3/5
  • Dog-Friendly2/5
  • Barking Amount3/5

Care

  • Grooming Difficulty2/5
  • Shedding Amount3/5
  • Easy to Train4/5
  • Can Be Alone3/5
  • Exercise Need4/5

Environment

  • Cold Tolerance4/5
  • Heat Tolerance3/5
  • Apartment-Friendly3/5

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Information

Greater Swiss Mountain DogImmensely strong but also agile and quick, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog stands tall at up to 28.5 inches and can weigh as much as a human. Their coat is a dynamic combination of black, red and white, creating a distinctive look. As its name implies, the breed originates from Switzerland and was used as a herding and guard dog due to its substantial build and great intelligence. The breed loves being part of a family and is faithful and dependable. Just remember to brush their lustrous coats twice a week and provide a moderate level of exercise.

All dogs have their own personality and unique training, causing them to differ slightly from these breed stats. Please let us know if we made an error in the stats.

Breed FAQs

Can Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs be apartment dogs?

Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs aren't ideal for apartments, but they can live there if they get enough chances to play in a larger space nearby.

Can Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs be left alone?

While Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs prefer to be around their owners, they can do fairly well when left alone if necessary.

Are Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs good with kids?

Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs do well with kids. Supervise them closely, as with any dog, but they are unlikely to become aggressive.

Are Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs friendly with strangers?

Although Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs can take a bit to warm up, they are mostly friendly with strangers.

Do Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs get along with other dogs?

Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs aren't usually friendly with other dogs. They tend not to get along unless they are carefully socialized.

Do Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs bark a lot?

As far as dogs go, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs bark an average amount. Expect barking to alert you, get attention, or react to strangers and other dogs.

Do Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs shed a lot?

Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs shed a medium amount. They have seasonal shedding, but they aren't terrible to clean up after.

Do Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs need a lot of grooming?

Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs don't require very much grooming. Typical maintenance and baths are enough.

Do Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs need a lot of exercise?

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has a good amount of energy and needs walks and play to stay happy.

Are Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs easy to train?

Typically, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are easy to train. They enjoy working with their owner and are quick to learn.

Can Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs handle cold weather?

Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs do well in cold weather. You may need to protect their paws, but they handle colder climates well.

Can Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs handle hot weather?

Although Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs can tolerate hot conditions, don't expose them for too long.

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