Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Sensible, friendly and smart
Swisses 101
Working groupThe Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is one the giant Swiss breeds developed as Alpine farm and cart dogs. Today, these gentle dogs are a popular breed with families who have some room. They are intelligent, eager to please and relatively easy to train.
What we love about Swisses
Gentle giant makes a great companion
While Swissies may once have guarded their homes and people, today they are usually friendly to all. They are good with other family pets and adore children. Early socialization and manners training are necessary to prevent pulling on the leash as adults. They are perfect for active families, especially those who enjoy outdoor winter recreation.
Very vocal
Talkative
As needed
My pet’s health plannerSM
Mature adult Swiss
Risk level for common Swiss conditions
Seizures
Skin cancer
Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
Senior Swiss
Risk level for common Swiss conditions
Arthritis
Seizures
Intervertebral disc disease
Swiss puppy
Risk level for common Swiss conditions
Urinary tract infection
Gastroenteritis
Conjunctivitis
Young adult Swiss
Risk level for common Swiss conditions
Foreign body ingestion
Seizures
Ear infection
Mature adult Swiss
Risk level for common Swiss conditions
Seizures
Skin cancer
Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
Senior Swiss
Risk level for common Swiss conditions
Arthritis
Seizures
Intervertebral disc disease
Swiss puppy
Risk level for common Swiss conditions
Urinary tract infection
Gastroenteritis
Conjunctivitis
Young adult Swiss
Risk level for common Swiss conditions
Foreign body ingestion
Seizures
Ear infection
Nationwide can help you save on your Greater Swiss Mountain Dog's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
Get your Greater Swiss Mountain Dog’s health information in a free report
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog was used to develop the Saint Bernard and the Rottweiler.
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog coat care and colors
As befitting a breed originating from the Swiss Alps, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has a downy undercoat and a short, weather-resistant overcoat. While the breed sheds all the time, the Swissie sheds most heavily in spring and fall, and because of their size, that means a lot of fur. Regular brushing and combing down to the skin will reduce shedding significantly. Acclimate to nail trims early to prevent struggles down the line. Some Swissies drool.
How often should I bathe my Greater Swiss Mountain Dog?
Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs can be bathed monthly, weekly or as needed (if they roll in mud, for example!). Use a pet-specific shampoo and conditioner or an all-in-one product. If your dog’s coat or skin isn’t looking healthy, check with your veterinary healthcare team to see what might be causing the problem.
What type of coat does my Greater Swiss Mountain Dog have?
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has a sleek, short coat.
How often should I brush my Greater Swiss Mountain Dog?
For a short-coated breed, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog sheds a fair amount. Weekly or even more frequent brushing will remove loose fur and keep shedding manageable.
Swiss exercise & training
Swiss fun facts
Top girl names for Swisses
of Swisses are female
of Swisses are male
Top boy names for Swisses
Nationwide loves Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
Other breeds like Swisses
Best. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog insurance. Ever.SM
- Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
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