The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog does not need extensive exercise so she can be kept in an apartment as long as she can get daily long walks. A properly fenced in yard would be ideal. She is a great watch dog and guard dog. She generally gets along well with other pets and dogs. It is said that she is good with older children. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with any puppy or dog. She prefers cooler climates and has an easy care coat.

Approximate Adult Size

The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is 23 to 29 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 130 to 135 pounds.

Special Health Considerations

Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is no exception. Be on the look out for Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), bone disease, epilepsy (common in dogs), bloat (Gastric Dilation-Volvulus, the second leading killer of dogs, can kill within the hour, this space is too limited for a complete explanation but you should read up on this).

Feeding more then once a day and avoiding exercise right after meals may help guard against bloat and eye problems. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

Grooming

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has a double coat. The outer coat is short, shiny and dense and the inner coat is very thick. She is an average shedder. She should be brushed weekly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat and help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

Life Span

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog can live between 10 and 12 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

History

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog comes from Switzerland. It is said that they are descended from Mastiff dogs that came with Roman soldiers when he invaded Switzerland. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1995.