Appenzeller Sennenhund are patient, kind dogs. This makes them good watchdogs. They will not bark unnecessarily or attack unless provoked, unlike some breeds who can be aggressive to strangers or family.
The Appenzeller is the least well known Swiss mountain dog in North America. It should live outdoors on acreage to run free, like a farm. Appenzellers need attention to exercise.
Appenzellers can be good for older, respectful children if trained and socialized properly. However, they might not tolerate rough handling so may not suit young kids. This breed can be wary of strangers yet not usually aggressive if socialized.
The Appenzeller mountain dog is a rare Sennenhund breed, with height up to 22 inches and weight to 71 pounds. Their life span is 12 to 14 years. These dogs are versatile, intelligent workers capable of learning a lot. But they have an independent mind and are not pushovers to train.
Today Appenzellers are known for being versatile working and family dogs – smart, cheerful, self-assured, reliable and fearless. Their wariness around strangers makes them good watchdogs, but need socialization to not become overly suspicious.
Appenzeller puppies are still rare in the US, making them difficult and expensive to find. Naturally they love having a home with a big yard to run freely. Starting training early is good to prevent bad habits in adolescent dogs who will test their limits. Heeling lessons are especially important as they are strong enough to pull owners over.
How big does a Appenzeller dog get?
The Appenzeller is a medium-large dog from Switzerland. It has served in working roles. The breed is loyal and friendly. It needs an owner able to give it exercise. The dog loves open spaces. If given a job, this intelligent dog will work hard.
The Appenzeller comes from the Appenzell region. It is one of four Swiss mountain dogs. Their ancestors were local dogs bred with Mastiffs brought by the Romans. The Appenzeller worked as a cattle drover and guard. The Swiss have preserved the breed since the 1800s.
The Appenzeller has an broad head and strong muzzle. Its small eyes are brown. It has small to medium drop ears and a tail carried over its back. The coat is tri-color – black/brown base with tan and white.
Males typically reach 52-56 cm and females 50-54 cm. Males weigh 50-70 pounds, females 50-65 pounds. The Appenzeller is intelligent and fairly easy to train. It forms a close bond with owners. Firm leadership is needed.
In the U.S. the Appenzeller is still rare. Prices range $600-$1500. The breed makes a good working and family dog. It can be a watchdog but needs socialization. Appenzellers generally live 12-14 years.
The Appenzeller’s Alpine biome has shaped the breed. Its habitat has high altitudes, steep hills, thick forests and varying weather. These dogs are sturdy and agile, allowing them to easily navigate the terrain.
Do Appenzeller dogs shed a lot?
The Appenzeller Sennenhund is a herding dog originally from Switzerland. It has a double coat that sheds heavily and needs regular grooming. These dogs are intelligent, energetic, and loyal. Appenzellers make good watch dogs but can bark a lot without proper training. Though they enjoy running and playing outside, Appenzellers can adapt to apartment living with sufficient daily exercise. They get along well with children if socialized early. On average, the Appenzeller Sennenhund lives 12-14 years.
As herding dogs, Appenzellers use their bark to communicate with their owners and herd cattle. Their loud bark serves as an alert and helps keep animals in line. Today some Appenzellers work in Swiss Alps rescue teams.
These friendly dogs crave attention and closely bond with families. Providing proper mental and physical stimulation will result in an affectionate companion. Appenzeller mothers are protective of their young and pass on desirable qualities like intelligence and gentleness.
What is the life expectancy of an Appenzeller Sennenhund?
The Appenzeller Sennenhund is a medium-large dog originally bred in Switzerland for herding, guarding, and pulling carts. This athletic, energetic breed makes a loyal companion and farm dog. On average, Appenzeller Sennenhunds live 12 to 14 years. A balanced diet and regular exercise can help prevent health issues and improve mental and physical health.
Genetic factors like hip dysplasia can affect life expectancy. Other issues include cancer, heart disease, and eye disorders. With proper care and socialization, the Appenzeller Sennenhund bonds closely with owners. Though wary of strangers, with training they can be safe family pets. Their high energy makes them better suited to homes with space over apartments.
Buy from responsible breeders who test for inherited diseases. Give them plenty of exercise. With the right owner, these intelligent dogs will flourish.