Switzerland is known for its mountain dogs. There are four different races in total.
Today we introduce you to the Appenzeller Sennenhund, an energetic, willing and spirited breed of dog.
Is this dog suitable for you, or are you good enough for this four-legged friend?
In this post you will find out.
Appenzeller Sennenhund profile
Size Male: 52 to 56 cm, female: 50 to 54 cmWeightMale: 22 to 32 kg, female: 22 to 32 kgColorsTricolor, main colors black or redLife expectancy8 to 12 yearsOriginSwitzerlandCharacter/temperamentConfident, reliable, lively, energetic, fearlessFCI groupGroup 2 Pinschers and Schnauzers – Molossoids – Swiss Mountain Dogs, Section 3 Swiss Mountain Dogs
Look
The Appenzell Mountain Dog is medium sized, muscular and almost square built up.
This breed falls through their rather pointed snout and a remarkably smart facial expression.
The typical Appenzell Mountain Dog carries its tail over its back. The curled tail is casually called post horn designated.
According to FCI specifications, the Appenzeller Sennenhund must be tricolor, i.e. three-colored. The basic colors are black or red.
Other colors in the Appenzeller Sennenhund are possible, but not desired by the breeders.
However, this should not play any further role in the award to private buyers without breeding thoughts.
The Appenzeller Sennenhund has a dense, double fur. While that is Outer coat thick and shinythe undercoat in a thick black, brown or gray.
The almond-shaped, dark eyes of the Appenzeller Sennenhund show an intelligent and clever look. In relation to the head, however, they are relatively small.
The dark, red or brown eye color depends on the basic color of the dog.
Size and weight are males and females visually indistinguishable: Males have a shoulder height between 52 and 56 centimeters, with bitches it is two centimeters less.
In terms of weight, both sexes are about the same at 22 to 32 kilograms.
History & origin of the Appenzeller Sennenhund
Appenzell is a canton of Switzerland. The story of the begins there second smallest from the Swiss Mountain Dog family.
At first it guarded the houses and yards of the mountain farmers and served as an all-round tool, so to speak. He was also used to pull carts.
Occasionally he was also called cattle dog deployed. However, the size of the dog allows for great maneuverability, which greatly benefits cattle herding.
That is why he was used more and more often as a driving and herding dog.
Visually, the Appenzell Mountain Dog is derived from its smaller relative, the Entlebucherand its next bigger brother, the Berner can hardly be distinguished apart from small details.
The distinguishing features of an Appenzeller Sennenhund were determined rather arbitrarily around 1913. Nevertheless, there is a clear FCI standard for this dog today.
In Germany, up until 2007, just 2,000 Appenzell Mountain Dogs were officially registered as breeding dogs.
To date, the number has more than doubled. And that per year!
Nevertheless, the demand for Appenzell puppies far exceeds the supply, which sometimes leads to high prices for young animals.
Nature and character of the Appenzeller Sennenhund
The Appenzeller Sennenhund is a livelier simultaneously more confident and more fearless Companion with a lot of temperament.
He is very fixated on his family and his home and a true one child friend.
To strangers he is suspicious and reserved. This can be traced back to his guard and protective instincts.
He has no hesitation in taking his family with him determination and defend without any fear.
As a guard, he draws attention with his soft barking. His bright organ is distinctive for his breed.
While the other members of the Swiss Mountain Dogs seem rather sedate, the Appenzeller is the activist of the breed family, so to speak.
He is agile and is looking for employment. He is extremely capable of learning and willing to work.
attitude & upbringing
The old cattle dog is still present as an instinct in today’s Appenzell Mountain Dogs. As a cattle dog, he is intelligent, agile and has a bright mind.
Occasionally, however, the Appenzeller Sennenhund also has a distinctive one hunting instinctwhich should be deducted accordingly.
The dog has a strong need to bond with his family. This could lead to problems if you have to leave an Appenzeller alone for longer periods of time every day.
However, with a little training, this problem should be solved.
Health & Care
Despite its dense coat and undercoat, the Appenzeller Sennenhund is considered to be very easy-care. Brushing here and there is perfectly adequate.
The health of this breed is different. Appenzell Mountain Dogs are prone to various hereditary problems EyesDiseases.
dysplasia Joints and hips are also hereditary diseases, but they can also occur due to their size and weight.
When buying a puppy, you should take a close look at the pedigree. Partly affects a strong inbreeding negatively affects the physical and mental fitness of the dog and shortens its life expectancy, which is not too long anyway.
The life expectancy of an Appenzeller Sennenhund is 6 to 8 years.
With a healthy dog from optimal breeding, you can bring your Appenzeller up to 12 years or more with a healthy diet, mental activity and physical exertion.
Is the Appenzeller Sennenhund right for me?
The Appenzeller Sennenhund is a very active and agile four-legged friend. Badly trained or underutilized, it can quickly become a problem dog.
Therefore, the Appenzeller needs an owner or a family that finds enough time to deal with the four-legged friend.
A house with a garden where the dog can roam freely should be standard. However, keeping an apartment is also possible, provided you provide the necessary compensation.
However, a house with a garden is of no use if the dog is alone all day. He needs a partner who will support him demands and encourages.
Overall, the Appenzeller Sennenhund is a grateful animal. Easy to train and therefore also for Beginners and first time owners very suitable.
He’s a great one family dog, especially when children live in the household. Jealousies between children, other pets and their owners are alien to the Appenzeller Sennenhund.
Fun facts about the Appenzeller Sennenhund
The Appenzeller Sennenhund is so rare that organizations other than the FCI do not recognize this breed. Of the four Sennenhund breeds, the Appenzeller is the rarest.
Despite its rarity, it is becoming increasingly popular. And: He was voted one of the most beautiful dogs!
Have we aroused your interest in an Appenzeller Sennenhund?
Do you already have one and want to share your experiences?
We look forward to your comment!