Group
Canadian Kennel Club, National Kennel Club, Continental Kennel Club, American Pet Registry Inc., American Canine Registry
Native Country
Switzerland
Other Names
Appenzeller, Appenzell Mountain Dog.
Breed Description
Head: Slightly wedge-shaped. Stop not pronounced. Rectangular nose bridge. Black or brown nose. Tight lips.
Ears: Set on high, triangular, drop, lying against the head.
Eyes: Small, almond. Dark brown to chestnut color.
Body: Robust, compact. Strong, dry neck. Broad chest is well let down. Prominent forechest. Belly slightly tucked up. Straight, solid back. Short croup.
Tail: Set high, b, moderately long, bushy. In action, carried curled over the croup, falling to the side or along the midline.
Hair: Short, thick, lying close to the skin. Thick undercoat.
Coat: Black or tan background with symmetrical tan or white markings. Tan markings above the eyes, and on the cheeks, forechest, and legs. White flare, white patch from chin to forechest. White markings on the feet and tip of the tail.
Size: Dog: 50 to 58 cm (20-23 in).Bitch: 48 to 56 cm (19-22 in).
Weight: 22 to 25 kg (49-55 lb).
History
Originating in Appenzell canton in Eastern Switzerland, the Appenzeller Sennenhund was first described in an early work as a quite vocal, multi-colored, short-haired drover of medium size.» The breed is thought to be descended from Tibetan Molosser dogs and Nordic breeds. The Appenzeller Sennenhund was established as a distinct breed in 1898. Max Siever, a great promoter of the Appenzeller Sennenhund, worked on the first standard for the breed. The Swiss Appenzeller club was created in 1906. The breed is rare outside of its native Switzerland.
Behavior
This courageous, robust, self-confident dog is energetic and has a lively temperament. The Appenzeller Sennenhund fills many roles. This affectionate, gentle breed makes a good pet. Wary of strangers and possessing the defense instinct, he is also a good guard dog. The breed is also used as a draft dog and rescue dog.
Advice
The Appenzeller Sennenhund is not suited to city living. He needs a lot of exercise and room to run. Regular brushing is required.
Function
Herder (rounds up cattle), draft dog (pulls milk carts), utility dog: (rescue: avalanches, earthquakes, etc.), guard dog, pet.
















