Appenzeller Sennenhund

The Appenzeller Sennenhund is a medium-sized dog that originated in Switzerland where it was primarily used as a herding dog. It is known by numerous different names including the Appenzeller Sennenhund(e), Appenzeller, Appenzell Cattle Dog, Appenzeller Mountain Dog, Appenzell Mountain Dog, Entlebucher Sennenhund(e) and the Entlebucher Mountain Dog. It is unknown as to the exact origin of the Appenzeller Sennenhund. While some people believe that they have been around for centuries, others think that they are ancestors of Molossus dogs that the Romans brought with them to Switzerland. In either case, they are one of four different Swiss Sennenhunde breeds. Over the years, the Appenzellar has been used as a tireless herding dog and protector of sheep, goats and cattle. However, many people also used them to pull carts carrying milk and cheese to various merchants in town. Today, they are still used as all-around farm dogs, but they are also gaining popularity as terrific family pets.

The Appenzeller Sennenhund is a medium or large dog that is muscular and powerful. It is one of the four breeds of the Swiss Alps. Although they share many characteristics with their cousins, Appenzellers are the most unique and athletic-looking of the Swiss Alps. They have a low maintenance coat, but do shed a lot. Their tails tend to be kinked. A fully grown Appenzeller Sennenhund can weigh between 50 and 70 pounds, with males often being larger than females. They have a short, stiff coat that is always tri-colored. Their small triangular ears are set high on their heads and drop forward towards their cheeks. The tail of the Appenzellar is carried high and is curled tightly over the back. The eyes of Appenzeller Sennenhunds are typically dark brown, but some dogs have hazel or light brown eyes. This is a muscular dog that was built to traverse the rugged terrain of the Swiss Alps.

Personality

Appenzellers were bred as farm dogs and are most happy when they have a task to work on. They are lively and energetic especially when they can roam outside. They are friendly and affectionate towards children, but may try to herd them. This breed needs plenty of exercise to stay happy. They are eager to please their human families, but may act suspicious or protective towards strangers. They usually get along with other dogs, unless they feel threatened. Like other working dogs, the Appenzeller Sennenhund is an energetic dog that needs a lot of exercise. With that said, if you choose this breed, you will need to provide it with a large area to run and play. These are intelligent dogs that learn quickly and strive to please their owners. With their protective and gentle nature, Appenzellers make fantastic pets for people who have children. Furthermore, although they are gentle with their human family members, they are very distrusting of strangers. This is a breed that gets along quite well with most other household pets.

Breed Characteristics

Appenzeller Sennenhund Build Information

The Appenzeller Sennenhund is a medium or large dog that is muscular and powerful. It is one of the four breeds of the Swiss Alps. Although they share many characteristics with their cousins, Appenzellers are the most unique and athletic-looking of the Swiss Alps. They have a low maintenance coat, but do shed a lot. Their tails tend to be kinked. A fully grown Appenzeller Sennenhund can weigh between 50 and 70 pounds, with males often being larger than females. They have a short, stiff coat that is always tri-colored. Their small triangular ears are set high on their heads and drop forward towards their cheeks. The tail of the Appenzellar is carried high and is curled tightly over the back. The eyes of Appenzeller Sennenhunds are typically dark brown, but some dogs have hazel or light brown eyes. This is a muscular dog that was built to traverse the rugged terrain of the Swiss Alps.

Behaviour and Personality

Appenzellers were bred as farm dogs and are most happy when they have a task to work on. They are lively and energetic especially when they can roam outside. They are friendly and affectionate towards children, but may try to herd them. This breed needs plenty of exercise to stay happy. They are eager to please their human families, but may act suspicious or protective towards strangers. They usually get along with other dogs, unless they feel threatened. Like other working dogs, the Appenzeller Sennenhund is an energetic dog that needs a lot of exercise. With that said, if you choose this breed, you will need to provide it with a large area to run and play. These are intelligent dogs that learn quickly and strive to please their owners. With their protective and gentle nature, Appenzellers make fantastic pets for people who have children. Furthermore, although they are gentle with their human family members, they are very distrusting of strangers. This is a breed that gets along quite well with most other household pets.

Appearance

While the Appenzeller Sennenhund is a short-haired dog, it can shed quite a bit during shedding season. At these times, you will want to brush your pet at least once a day. Further, you should only need to bathe your Appenzeller about once or twice a month if necessary. However, you will want to check its ears regularly for excess wax buildup and clip the tips of its nails if they grow overly long.

Appenzeller Sennenhund Common Health Conditions

An Appenzeller Sennenhund that is in good health can live as long as 12 to 14 years or longer. In fact, some have been known to live 17 years. Nevertheless, just like most other breeds of dogs, Appenzellers can be prone to developing various health issues such as hip dysplasia, epilepsy, obesity and bloat.

Appenzeller Sennenhund Pet Insurance

When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.

Get a Free Pet Insurance Quote

Breed Talents and Facts

The Appenzeller Sennenhund is recognized under various different names with the Swiss Kennel Club, Federation Cynologique Internationale, United Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club. The Appenzeller Sennenhund was named after the Appenzell region in Switzerland. Most Appenzeller Sennenhunds never develop any genetic health issues. They usually have a tricolor double coats; strong powerful jaws and well-defined muscles; they have small triangular ears that flop. If you are looking for an all-around great dog that learns fast and gets along well with children and other pets, the Appenzeller Sennenhund may be the breed for you. These dogs not only make good family pets, but they also excel in other arenas including herding, agility, obedience and flyball.