The Sennenhunds is a fairly large group that brought together similar in appearance dogs, among which there are short- and long-haired varieties. The breed of Swiss mountain and shepherd dogs, which include the appenzeller Sennenhund, is recognized by the International Association of Cynologists.
By the way, mountain dogs ("Zenn" is a shepherd, "hund" is a dog) with the same success can be not only shepherds, but they also do an excellent job with the role of guide, watchman and rescuer. These animals have a peaceful, playful character and are very obedient.
All mountain dogs are divided into 4 species, among which the most popular is the large Swiss:
- bern - long-haired look;
- large Swiss - a large variety (up to 72 centimeters at the withers);
- appenzeller-sennenhund - a species with a tail curled up;
- entlebuch is the smallest variety (up to 50 centimeters at the withers).
Color
A common feature for the Sennenhund is the three-color color: black, white and red. This combination is very effective due to the contrast of the prevailing black color on the body and symmetrically located red spots on the legs, eyebrows, cheekbones, as well as white marks on the chest and muzzle.
Breed history
The Sennenhunds have been counting for more than two thousand years, including the Appenzeller Sennenhund, the breed of which we will describe below. Anyone who has ever met these charming dogs will love this breed forever.
Presumably, the Sennenhund descended from the Tibetan mastiff, were brought to Europe by the Phoenicians, and thanks to the Romans they became widespread in this part of the world. At first, beautiful three-mastered dogs appeared in the Appenzell area, and a little later - in the areas of Entlebuch and Bern, where the varieties of the same name acquired their names. If you want to have a loyal four-legged friend, then the Sennenhund appenzeller will suit you. The nature of this animal is flexible and seasoned, it is easy to train.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is the oldest breed. A large, physically developed animal has a powerful torso. Due to the bright color of these dogs, it is impossible to confuse with other breeds: a white spot adorns the muzzle, paws and tail, and red-and-red tan marks can be present on the tail and cheeks, as well as above the eyebrows. The female is usually slightly smaller in size than the male.
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is characterized by canine wisdom and self-confidence; has a balanced character. This dog is very fond of children, forgiving them pranks, and is also distinguished by goodwill towards all members of the family.
Greater Swiss liking is similar to the variety of appenzeller-sennenhund, the reviews of the owners of which positively characterize the dog as a pet. The breezy energy of the Sennenhunds, a sufficiently high intellectual development and easy learning of numerous teams bribes people. In addition, some dog qualities such as obedience, distrust of strangers, and an amazing tenacity to stand up to the end for their owner or guarded object will be useful to some.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Another variety of mountain dogs is the Bernese breed, derived from Durbachler. Large dogs were initially used to help the shepherds, as they coped with grazing and cattle protection, and then they were entrusted with the duties of milk carriers. Currently, these cute dogs are brought for pleasure, accepting them as full and grateful family members.
The traditional three-color coat of these dogs is very thick and long, which distinguishes them from other varieties of mountain dogs. Calm and vigilant Bernese Mountain Dogs instantly join the family and get along well with the kids. Like other brethren in the breed, they have a benevolent and peaceful character, showing an endless devotion to their master. Thanks to their playful disposition, they are always fun.
Appenzeller mountain dog
As early as 1853, the first descriptions of this breed variety were found, which they began to display first in Appenzeller, and then throughout Switzerland. Having become a separate breed, the Appenzeller Sennenhund won the hearts of amateur dog breeders and professional shepherds. And in our time, these animals continue to carry the main qualities of their ancestors, such as dedication, reliability, devotion, courage and endurance.
Appenzeller Sennenhund is not large in size and has a small weight. Like other mountain dogs, this species has a characteristic three-color color and an athletic body. The energies of these dogs can be envied, however, as well as physical strength. One of the distinguishing features is the amazing ability to be an attentive friend and a good helper. If you lead an active lifestyle, then the Appenzeller Sennenhund breed is ideal for you, reviews of which characterize dogs as excellent companions in outdoor activities and travel.
In many ways, the naughty and cheerful nature of these animals causes sympathy among dog lovers. This is stated in numerous reviews. And they are also capable of affectionate and gentle treatment of children, playing with them with pleasure. However, a certain indulgence of the appenzellers still does not allow them to lose vigilance, defending their honor and dignity. Many people like that a dog friendly in the family is extremely wary of outsiders, because this facilitates the process of training.
Entlebuch (entlebucher)
Entlebuhera, (as well as the Appenzeller Sennenhund), photos of which are presented below, have relatively small sizes. There is a similarity of varieties: the same three-color suit and the same arrangement of spots characteristic of the breed. There are no significant differences. Short shiny coat and wide athletic torso.
It is possible to say about character that entlebuhera are bold, fearless and self-confident. Owners conquer their cheerful disposition and charming enthusiasm, which are manifested in outdoor games with people and animals. Like other brothers in the Scottish breed, these dogs are unconditionally loyal to their owners and are ready to protect them from visible and invisible enemies day and night.
The owners note that entlebuhera are smart, hardy and agile, but these qualities do not prevent them from being calm and balanced, so pets do not cause much inconvenience and hassle in everyday life. Owners of a strong muscular body can be excellent guards not only of herd animals, but also of any household and household property.
Reviews say that these dogs can even look after their babies as a nanny. Dogs have remarkable intelligence and quickly master all training teams to the great pleasure of all members of the household.
Food
One of the important advantages of dogs of the Sennenhund breed is indiscriminate eating, which greatly facilitates the care of them. For puppies for normal development, as well as for adults, for good nutrition, natural food or special dry food are excellent. Although, in order to maintain the health of the pet and maintain the coat in perfect condition, preference should be given to premium and higher feeds. This is described in detail by reviews of dog owners of this breed.
With natural nutrition, meat food should prevail, and all products must be fresh, supplemented with vitamins and minerals for dogs. Subject to these rules, your beloved dog will never be sick, and will always look great.
Care
Like any other breed of dog, the Sennenhund need some care. In particular, they need to be combed regularly, especially if your pet has a long coat and especially during molting. Getting accustomed to this simple procedure from childhood, dogs enjoy it a lot and gladly put their sides under a stiff brush.
In addition to caring for the cleanliness of dog hair, you should also look after the ears of the pet and be sure to pay attention to the condition of the eyes. In principle, it is not difficult to take care of the Mountain Dogs; the main thing is to do it with love. If a four-legged pet lives in an apartment, then, among other things, it is recommended to periodically trim the claws in a veterinary clinic. And although it cannot be said that dogs like this procedure, they get used to it.
Training
All varieties of mountain dogs are highly intelligent dogs. According to the owners, they are smart, trained and obedient, which helps to accelerate the training process. Dogs quickly learn a large set of teams, gaining understanding with all members of the family, and become loyal friends and reliable companions for joint activities and walks. Any owner is pleased to have a well-bred four-legged pet.
Diseases
Unfortunately, thoroughbred animals are prone to some diseases. Thus, the Sennenhunds often have a pathology of the hip joint, therefore chondroprotectors should be given to dogs for prophylactic purposes and on the recommendation of a specialist. Early detection of such a disease is established during an X-ray examination, which will further help maintain the joints in good condition. In addition, timely vaccination of puppies is necessary, because vaccinations will not only provide your dog with excellent health, but also save their lives.
In general, for those who want to have a charming Scottish mountain dog of any kind, these dogs can be so briefly characterized: they are smart, strong, bold, funny and simple. These loyal friends are great for living in the family and from the first days they become its full members. The Sennenhunds can’t tolerate loneliness, so you can’t forget them for a long time. But they will share all your sporting interests with joy and undisguised pleasure, because they adore an active lifestyle.