History of the Appenzeller Mountain Dog Breed
Not a lot of documentation can be found regarding the history or origin of the Appenzeller Mountain dog, but one source claims that two theories exist about this breed. The first theory is that the Appenzeller Mountain dog is an ancient breed that dates back as far as the Bronze Age. The second theory is that the breed is a descendent of the Roman dog called Molossus, and that the Romans were responsible for introducing the breed to Switzerland. This breed is classified as one of four known Swiss Sennenhunds, which also includes the Greater Swiss Mountain dog, the Entlebucher Mountain dog, and the Bernese Mountain dog. The Appenzeller is considered to be a breed that is least often found within the classification. The Appenzeller was originally used as a draft dog, a flock guardian, and a general farm dog, and it is still used as such today. It was and is a useful breed because of its energy and strength. It is capable of navigating the mountains in its native land of Switzerland. Today, this breed excels in obedience competitions and can be a wonderful family pet.
Size and Appearance of the Appenzeller Mountain Dog Breed
A large and muscular breed, the Appenzeller Mountain dog is built to be a working dog that offers versatility and strength. The wide head is rather flat and features a tapered muzzle. The nose is black, and the small eyes are dark in color. The ears of this breed are quite long, and the tail curls up over the back when the dog is in motion. The straight legs are designed to provide nimble movement over rough mountain terrain. The double coat of this breed is short and thick, and it helps to protect the dog from the elements. The coat colors are usually brown and black with white and rust symmetrical markings. Most dogs of this breed have a white blaze between the eyes, and rust markings can be found above the eyes.
Appenzeller Mountain Dog Temperament
This intelligent breed is hardworking and lively. It can make a wonderful pet for an active family with experience handling large breeds. The Appenzeller will normally get along with other dogs and family pets if it is socialized from an early age. It is generally very good with livestock because of its history as a farm dog. This breed can be quite protective of the family, and it usually reserved with strangers. It gets along well with children and is a very loyal breed. While it will be friendly with the entire family, the Appenzeller does tend to find one person with whom it bonds tightly. This is an intelligent breed that responds well to kind, consistent training. The Appenzeller is a working dog at heart, so it should be given a job to do. It enjoys being with its family, and therefore should not be left outside alone or placed in a kennel.
Appenzeller Mountain Dog Recommended Maintenance
The short, thick double coat of the Appenzeller is quite easy to maintain. Be sure to brush the coat with a firm bristle brush on a regular basis to remove any dead hairs. This active breed should not live in an apartment. It likes to be outside and is best suited for farm life. Because of its tendency to bark, it is a good choice for country living. It will get plenty of exercise on its own if it has the chance to run and herd. However, it will enjoy long walks with its owner, and this should be provided if this dog does not have the luxury of living on a farm in the country.
Appenzeller Mountain Dog Health
Life span: 12-13 years
Major concerns: None
Minor concerns: None
Occasionally seen: None
Suggested tests: None
