Breed History / Description
As the name suggests, the Great Swiss Mountain dog is the largest of the Swiss herding breeds and the heaviest in build. He shares the same origins as the Bernese and carries the typical tricolour markings but he has a short dense coat and is perhaps a little heavier in head.
The breed was used for herding cattle, as a guard dog and as a carting dog. Often working in pairs, the Great Swiss Mountain Dog was used for pulling milk carts to the cheese factories and taking the cheeses to market.
Characteristics
Multi-purpose working dog capable of draught duties; devoted to those around him.
Temperament
Self-assured, alert and watchful. Even natured. Confident with strangers.
Club, K., 2018. The Kennel Club's Breed Standards. 5th ed. London SW1V 2SA: Ebury Press.