The Appenzeller Sennenhund is a medium-sized Swiss dog breed which is managed by the FCI in Group 2. The Appenzell Mountain Dog is one of the Swiss Mountain Dogs and is a classic herding dog, but due to its uncomplicated character it is also suitable as a family dog.
Males reach a shoulder-height of 52 to 56 centimeters while female Appenzeller Sennenhunde are somewhat smaller with 50 to 54 cm. The weight of this breed usually ranges between 22 and 32 kilograms.
The physique of the Appenzell Mountain Dog is almost square. The animals are very mobile, but still have a well developed musculature. The Appenzeller Sennenhund has a short and powerful neck and a straight, medium-long back as well as a broad and deep chest.
The wedge-shaped head fits harmoniously into the overall picture. It has a slight forehead furrow and a moderately developed stop. Its slightly slanting eyes are small and almond-shaped. The large ears of the Appenzell Mountain Dog are set high and hang down when at rest.
The Appenzeller Sennenhund has a three-colored, stock-haired fur with a dense undercoat. As reason-color, also a dark brown is allowed beside black, with what it carries white and brown insignia in each case.
Who turns with the purchase of an Appenzeller alpine dairyman dog to a serious breeder, can be pleased about a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years as a rule.
Appenzell mountain dogs are regarded as intelligent and capable of learning. They have a spirited and lively nature and build up a close bond to their owner. For this reason, it is important to actively integrate them into everyday life and to give them sufficient attention.
As a classic herding dog, the Appenzell Mountain Dog is still fearless and self-confident. He usually appears to strangers with a certain amount of mistrust. If he is used as a working dog, he fulfills the tasks assigned to him with much perseverance and great diligence.
In addition, the Appenzell Mountain Dog has a pronounced protective instinct, which makes him a reliable guard dog, but especially for beginners in dog keeping but also a challenge.
The Appenzell Mountain Dog has an extremely high urge to move and must therefore be sufficiently occupied. He proves to be willing to learn and can be educated very well (assuming the necessary knowledge).
In his homeland the Appenzell Mountain Dog is still used as a herding dog. Due to his eagerness to work, he is also very suitable for medical, protection or avalanche dogs. Whoever wants to keep an Appenzell Mountain Dog as a family dog should be aware that mental and physical challenges are essential for the well-being of the four-legged friend.
For regular sporting activities we recommend our range of special products for sports dogs.
The Appenzell Mountain Dog is considered to be robust and comparatively unaffected by diseases typical for the breed. This is mainly due to the fact that he is still often bred as a working dog and the appearance plays only a minor role.
Nevertheless, there are some diseases for which there is an increased risk in the Appenzell Mountain Dog. This is especially true when the animals come from risk breeding.
A balanced diet is very important for the health and well-being of the Appenzell Mountain Dog. With our high-quality cold-pressed dog food from natural ingredients, you ensure an optimal nutrient supply and at the same time reduce the risk of intolerances.
In order to counteract joint problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia, we also recommend a dietary supplement with Bellfor joints and bones. The natural preparation contains the innovative active ingredient complex Ovopet with hyaluronic acid, collagen and many other valuable ingredients.
In addition, we recommend that you regularly detoxify the kidneys of your Appenzell Mountain Dog with Bellfor Kidney Power and thus contribute to relieving the strain on this vital filter organ.
Bellfor's well thought-out nutrition concept promotes the healthy development of your Appenzell Mountain Dog from an early age and reliably supports you in feeding your dog the right way.