Entlebucher Mountain Dog
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is one of the four Sennenhund breeds that originated in the Swiss Alps. They are a working breed that specializes in herding and guarding livestock. They are very independent but still love spending their time close to their family members and the people they love.
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is an active and intelligent herding breed, and it is the smallest of the four Swiss Sennenhund. People often think that such a small herding breed wouldn’t have a lot of energy, but be prepared - they need a lot of exercise and daily physical activities to remain healthy and happy.
Height:
16-21 in (41–53 cm)
Weight:
40-65 lb (18–30 kg)
Origin:
Switzerland
Life Expectancy:
11-13 years
Dog Breed Characteristics
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog’s characteristics are similar to the rest of the Swiss Mountain dogs. They are tricolored and have that unique combination of black, white, and tan. They have slightly elongated bodies and are quite heavy compared to their physical appearance.
The head of the Entlebucher Mountain Dog is in proportion to the rest of its body. These dogs have black noses and strong, well-chiseled muzzles. Their eyes are round and somewhat small. They can come in a range of colors from dark brown to hazel. Their ears are of medium size and triangular with a rounded tip.
Their bodies are muscular, longish, and strong. They have deep chests and strong backs. Their limbs are not too short nor too long. They are strong and muscled, and they make these dogs very agile. The Entlebucher Mountain Dog can have a normal tail or can have a naturally occurring bobtail.
Grooming
Entlebucher Mountain Dog has a thick, dense, and tricolored double coat. Their undercoat is thick. Weekly brushing will be enough for these dogs to look good and to keep their hair under control.
They will also need other basic care; brush their teeth at least three times a week. Check their ears for signs of infection and redness, bathe them regularly, and trim their nails if they don’t wear them down naturally.
Entlebucher Mountain Dog temperament
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog’s temperament is that of a working, herding dog breed. They are active, lively, confident, and alert. They are not the most trusting dog breed and they take their time to assess strangers before they get friendly. They are loyal and devoted to their families and can be rather territorial.
These traits combined make the Entlebucher Mountain Dog an excellent watchdog, and you can be sure that this breed will let you know about anyone approaching your home.
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog can get along great with other pets from their family. They will protect other dogs and even cats, but those that are not a part of its “flock” will chase and drive off. These dogs are usually great with children and have enough energy to play all day long, but they are better suited for older kids.
Training and socialization
Training your Entlebucher Mountain Dog is extremely important. They are great watchdogs with a deep and sonorous bark, so if you don’t want to upset your neighbors constantly, teach your dog to stop barking on command. These dogs are used to working independently and can be a bit stubborn while in training.
Make sure you involve treats and praises in your dog’s training, and pretty soon, you will see great results.
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is naturally suspicious of people they don’t know, and for this behavior to not escalate, make sure your Entlebucher Mountain Dog’s socialization starts early. Expose your dog to different situations and unknown people.
Take them to busy parks and show them how to properly behave. That is the best way for your dog to understand social rules, and proper socialization will ensure that your puppy develops into a stable and well-behaved dog.
Health problems
Like any other dog breed, the Entlebucher Mountain Dog can potentially develop health problems. If you are buying a dog, make sure the breeder can provide you with the necessary health tests and guarantees. Always ask to see the results of tests from the puppy’s parents.
The health problems these dogs are associated with are:
- Hip dysplasia
- Eye problems
- Urinary syndrome – misplacement of the ureter
- Luxation patella
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is generally considered a very healthy breed that can live 11-13 years.
Entlebucher Mountain Dog breeders
If you decide to get one of these dogs, make sure you get one from a reputable Entlebucher Mountain Dog breeder. A good breeder will have no problem in showing you all their certificates and their breeding dogs’ health tests. It would be ideal that you could see both of the puppy’s parents, but the reality is that that isn’t always possible.
The breeder usually has the puppy’s mother at their home, so try and see if that dog is happy and healthy - both physically and mentally.
Ask the breeder to tell you as much as possible about the breed and ask for advice if that might be the best breed for you. Entlebucher Mountain Dog breeders have spent a significant part of their lives with these dogs and can surely give you great insights.
SEARCH ENTLEBUCHER MOUNTAIN DOG BREEDERS
World Dog Finder team
Updated at31.08.2023.
Breed History
Entlebucher Mountain Dogs were used as all farm dogs, but their primary task was to keep an eye on a herd. These dogs developed excellent agility characteristics because they were moving cattle up and down pastures.
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