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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Appenzeller
The Appenzeller Mountain Dog (aka Appenzell Cattle Dog and the Appenzeller Sennenhunde)
is a muscular, well-built and hardy animal. It has a wide, flat head with a muzzle
that narrows towards its black nose. The eyes are small and dark and the ears hang
down next to the head. The legs are straight and the tail is carried in a curl over
the back. The short, double-coat is thick, tight and glossy. This breed's coat colors
are brown and black with white and rust markings. A white blaze and rust markings
over the eyes must be present on this breed's head. Rust markings are always present
between the black and the white.
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Temperament
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The Appenzeller Mountain Dog (AMD) is tough, brave, intelligent and lively. They
usually get along fine with other dogs and livestock as long as they are raised
with them. Though they are wary of strangers, they do fine with children. This breed
is loyal to the family, but usually bonds closely with one person. It is best to
train the AMD with a consistent and even-temperament. Early socialization is important.
Introduce them to all kinds of situations, people and other animals. This breed
learns very quickly and really wants to have something to do. They are excellent
with skill trials and games of catch. This noisy, extroverted dog makes a great
watchdog.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 22-23" ; Female Height: 18-20"
Weight: 49-70 lbs.
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Health Problems
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There are no known breed specific health concerns with this dog.
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Living Conditions
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This breed should not live in an apartment or the city. They prefer to live outdoors
and should have lots of acreage where they can run free ? such as a farm. They love
to bark and are not well-suited for areas with close neighbors.
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Exercise
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The AMD should live on a farm where it will give itself enough exercise on its own.
It has strong herding instincts which will prevent it from running off.
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Life Expectancy
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About 12-13 years
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Grooming
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The Appenzeller's double-coat is easy to care for. Remove dead hairs with a rubber
brush from time to time.
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Origin
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The Appenzeller is the rarest of the Swiss Sennenhunde, which also includes the
Bernese Mountain Dog, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog and the Entlebucher Cattle
Dog. During the 1800s, the dogs were scattered on Swiss farms and their numbers
were dwindling. In 1897, it was determined that the AMD required preservation. A
breed club was established in 1906. The official breed standard was announced in
1914 by Dr. Heim, who was credited with preserving many of the Swiss breeds. This
breed is recognized by the UKC and has been accepted for recording in the AKC Foundation
Stock Service®.
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Group
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AKC/FSS Herding, UKC Guardian Dog
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