Herding Dog Group - Great Swiss Mountain Dog

The largest of all Swiss mountain dogs, the Great Swiss is thought to descend from Molossus dogs, brought north by ancient Roman armies. An extremely robust dog with very strong hindquarters, it is capable of moving heavy loads and has also been used for search and rescue work in the mountains.

Coat: Stiff and short.

Color: Black with bright, symmetrical russet and white markings.

Features: Flat, broad head; brown, medium-size eyes; triangular, medium-size cars; moderately long, strong, straight back; tail fairly heavy and reaching to the hocks.

Size: Height: dogs 25½ - 27½ in, bitches 23½ - 25½ in.

Care: Thrives in wide open spaces, and needs plenty of exercise; requires regular grooming with a bristle brush.

Character: A faithful, gentle animal, generally devoted to children. It is alert and highly intelligent, and makes a fine watchdog, willing to protect its human family with its life.