Are you considering getting an Entlebucher Mountain Dog as your next pet? If so, you’re in for a treat! This breed is a hardworking, loyal, and intelligent companion that will make a great addition to any household. Originally bred for herding cattle in the Swiss Alps, the Entlebucher Mountain Dog is a medium-sized breed that is known for its high energy levels and athleticism. While they may not be the best choice for novice owners, those who are willing to put in the time and effort to train and socialize their Entlebucher will be rewarded with a loving and devoted companion for years to come.

Breed Category: Working
Country of Origin: Switzerland
Average Size:50-52 cm
Average Weight:20-30 kg
Average Life Span: 11-13 years
Grooming Requirements: Moderate
Exercise Requirements:High

History and Origin

The Entlebucher Mountain Dog, also known as the Entlebucher Sennenhund, is a breed of dog that originated in Switzerland. This breed is one of four Sennenhund-type dogs, which were originally used as working dogs on Swiss farms. The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is the smallest of the four breeds and is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and agility.

The history of the Entlebucher Mountain Dog can be traced back to the 19th century, when it was used as a herding dog in the Entlebuch region of Switzerland. The breed was also used as a draft dog, pulling carts and other heavy loads. The Entlebucher Mountain Dog was highly valued by Swiss farmers for its ability to work long hours in difficult terrain and harsh weather conditions.

In the early 20th century, the Entlebucher Mountain Dog was almost extinct due to the decline of traditional farming practices in Switzerland. However, a group of breed enthusiasts worked to revive the breed, and in 1927, the Swiss Kennel Club officially recognized the Entlebucher Mountain Dog as a breed. The breed was later recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2011.

The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is a medium-sized dog, weighing between 45 and 65 pounds. It has a short, tri-colored coat that is black, white, and tan. The breed is known for its muscular build and athletic ability, making it well-suited for activities such as agility, obedience, and herding. The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is also known for its intelligence and loyalty, making it a popular choice as a family pet.

Today, the Entlebucher Mountain Dog is still used as a working dog in Switzerland, but it is also a popular breed for dog sports and as a family pet. The breed is known for its high energy level and requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is also prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and eye problems, so it is important for breeders to screen their dogs for these conditions.

In conclusion, the Entlebucher Mountain Dog is a breed with a rich history and a strong connection to Swiss farming traditions. Despite its near-extinction in the early 20th

Entlebucher Mountain Dog or Entlebucher Sennenhund Dog

Size and Breed Category

The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is a medium-sized breed that falls under the category of working dogs. They are muscular and sturdy, with a well-proportioned body that is slightly longer than it is tall. The breed’s head is broad and flat, with a strong jaw and a black nose. Their eyes are almond-shaped and dark brown, giving them an alert and intelligent expression. The ears are medium-sized and triangular, set high on the head and hanging down close to the cheeks. The Entlebucher Mountain Dog has a short, dense coat that is tricolour, with black, white, and tan markings. They are known for their agility and endurance, making them excellent herding and guarding dogs.

As a working breed, the Entlebucher Mountain Dog is highly active and requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They are intelligent and trainable, but can be stubborn at times. The breed is known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them excellent family dogs. They are good with children and other pets, but may be reserved with strangers. The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is a rare breed, with only a small number of registered dogs in the UK. They require a firm and consistent owner who can provide them with the exercise and training they need to thrive.

Fur Length and Colour

The fur of this breed is short and dense, with a glossy appearance. The fur is usually black with symmetrical white markings on the chest, feet, and muzzle. The white markings can also appear on the tip of the tail. The fur on the legs is usually shorter than the fur on the body, giving the dog a neat and tidy appearance. The fur on the ears is also short and smooth, with no fringes or tufts. The fur on the Entlebucher Mountain Dog is weather-resistant, making it suitable for outdoor activities in all seasons.

The Entlebucher Mountain Dog has a unique coat colour that distinguishes it from other breeds. The black fur is usually deep and rich, with a velvety texture. The white markings on the chest and feet are usually symmetrical, giving the dog a balanced appearance. The white markings on the muzzle can vary in size and shape, but they usually do not cover the entire muzzle. The tip of the tail is also white, which can be seen when the dog is wagging its tail. The fur colour of the Entlebucher Mountain Dog is one of its most distinctive features.

Termperament and Trainability

Entlebucher Mountain Dogs are known for their lively and energetic temperament. They are highly active and require plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. These dogs are intelligent and curious, always eager to explore their surroundings and learn new things. They are also very loyal and affectionate towards their owners, making them great companions for families with children. However, their high energy levels can sometimes make them a bit too boisterous for very young children, so it’s important to supervise them closely when they are playing together. Overall, the Entlebucher Mountain Dog is a fun-loving and lively breed that thrives on plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.

When it comes to trainability, the Entlebucher Mountain Dog is a highly intelligent breed that is eager to please its owner. They are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. However, they can be quite stubborn at times, so it’s important to be patient and consistent when training them. These dogs are also very independent and can sometimes be a bit headstrong, so it’s important to establish yourself as the pack leader early on. With the right training and socialization, the Entlebucher Mountain Dog can make a great family pet and companion for those who are willing to put in the time and effort to train them properly.

Entlebucher Mountain Dog or Entlebucher Sennenhund Dog ready for training

Known Health Conditions

Entlebucher Mountain Dogs are prone to certain health conditions that owners should be aware of. One of the most common issues is hip dysplasia, which is a genetic condition that affects the hip joint. This can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis in the affected joint. Entlebuchers can also develop eye problems such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, which can lead to blindness. Additionally, they may be at risk for epilepsy, a neurological disorder that causes seizures. It is important for owners to have their Entlebucher Mountain Dogs screened for these conditions and to work with their veterinarian to manage any health issues that arise.

Another health concern for Entlebucher Mountain Dogs is bloat, also known as gastric torsion or twisted stomach. This is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood flow to the organs. Symptoms include restlessness, drooling, and a distended abdomen. Entlebuchers may also be prone to allergies, which can cause skin irritation and itching. Finally, they may be at risk for a condition called von Willebrand’s disease, which is a bleeding disorder that affects the blood’s ability to clot. Owners should be aware of these potential health issues and work with their veterinarian to keep their Entlebucher Mountain Dog healthy and happy.

Entlebucher Mountain Dog or Entlebucher Sennenhund Dog healthy and happy

Openness to Strangers

Entlebucher Mountain Dogs are known for their friendly and welcoming nature towards strangers. They are a breed that is naturally curious and enjoys meeting new people. This breed is not typically aggressive towards strangers and will often approach them with a wagging tail and a friendly demeanor. Entlebucher Mountain Dogs are also known for their loyalty to their owners, which can sometimes make them protective of their family. However, this protective nature does not extend to strangers, and they are generally very accepting of new people.

In addition to their friendly nature, Entlebucher Mountain Dogs are also very intelligent and trainable. They are a breed that enjoys learning new things and can be taught a variety of different commands and tricks. This intelligence also makes them very adaptable to new situations and environments. They are a breed that can thrive in both urban and rural settings, as long as they receive enough exercise and mental stimulation. Overall, Entlebucher Mountain Dogs are a great choice for families who are looking for a friendly and intelligent companion that is also adaptable to different lifestyles.

Playfulness Level

The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is a highly energetic and playful breed that loves to engage in physical activities. They are known for their love of play and their ability to keep up with their owners during long walks or hikes. This breed is always up for a game of fetch or a run around the park, making them an excellent choice for active families who enjoy spending time outdoors. Their playful nature also makes them great companions for children, as they love to play and interact with their human family members.

The Entlebucher Mountain Dog’s playful personality is matched by their intelligence and trainability. They are quick learners and enjoy being challenged with new games and activities. This breed is also known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners, making them a great addition to any family. However, due to their high energy levels, they require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Overall, the Entlebucher Mountain Dog is a fun-loving and playful breed that is sure to bring joy and excitement to any household.

Suitability as a Pet for Children

Entlebucher Mountain Dogs are a highly energetic and intelligent breed, making them a great choice for families with active children. They are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature towards their owners, and are often described as being very playful and fun-loving. Due to their high energy levels, they require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. They are also very protective of their family, making them a good choice for families with young children. However, they can be quite stubborn and require firm training to ensure they are well-behaved.

Exercise Needs

Entlebucher Mountain Dogs are highly active and energetic dogs that require a significant amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. As a medium-sized breed, they need at least 60 minutes of daily exercise, which can be achieved through a combination of walks, runs, and playtime. These dogs are known for their love of outdoor activities, so taking them on hikes or runs in the countryside is an excellent way to meet their exercise needs. Additionally, they enjoy playing games such as fetch or tug-of-war, which can be incorporated into their daily routine. It is essential to provide them with enough exercise to prevent them from becoming bored or destructive, as they are prone to developing behavioural issues if they do not receive enough physical activity.

In addition to physical exercise, Entlebucher Mountain Dogs also require mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. These dogs are highly intelligent and enjoy learning new things, so training sessions and interactive toys can be an excellent way to meet their mental exercise needs. They thrive on positive reinforcement and enjoy working with their owners, so training sessions can also be an excellent bonding experience. It is important to provide them with enough mental stimulation to prevent them from becoming bored or anxious, as they are prone to developing separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. Overall, Entlebucher Mountain Dogs require a combination of physical and mental exercise to keep them healthy and happy.

Entlebucher Mountain Dog or Entlebucher Sennenhund Dog running exercise on beach

Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family

Entlebucher Mountain Dogs have a reputation for being loyal and protective of their families. They are known to be good with children and can make excellent family pets. When it comes to other pets, however, it can be hit or miss. Some Entlebuchers get along well with other dogs and cats, while others may be more territorial and aggressive. It is important to socialize them early and properly to increase the chances of them getting along with other pets.

Entlebucher Mountain Dog or Entlebucher Sennenhund Dog comfortable with family

Housing Requirements

Entlebucher Mountain Dogs require a spacious living environment that allows them to move around freely. They need a minimum of 30 square meters of indoor space and access to a secure outdoor area where they can run and play. The outdoor area should be fenced and have enough space for them to exercise and explore. It is important to note that Entlebucher Mountain Dogs are active and energetic dogs that require regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. Therefore, their living environment should provide ample opportunities for them to engage in physical activities such as running, playing fetch, and going for walks.

In addition to a spacious living environment, Entlebucher Mountain Dogs require a comfortable and cozy sleeping area. They need a bed that is large enough to accommodate their size and provides adequate support for their joints. The bed should be placed in a quiet and peaceful area of the house where they can rest undisturbed. It is also important to provide them with access to fresh water and food at all times. Entlebucher Mountain Dogs have a high metabolism and require a balanced diet to maintain their energy levels. Therefore, their food and water bowls should be placed in a clean and easily accessible area of the house.

Summary

Entlebucher Mountain Dogs have a lively and energetic personality, making them a great choice for active families who enjoy spending time outdoors. They are known for their loyalty and intelligence, making them easy to train and a great companion for those who enjoy obedience training. However, due to their high energy levels, they require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Overall, the Entlebucher Mountain Dog is a great pet for those who are willing to provide them with the attention and exercise they need.

 

Entelbuch Mountain Dog FAQS

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Entlebucher Mountain Dogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with consistent and positive reinforcement.

Yes, Entlebucher Mountain Dogs are known to be great with children and make excellent family pets.

Entlebucher Mountain Dogs can be prone to hip dysplasia, eye problems, and allergies. Regular vet check-ups are recommended.

While Entlebucher Mountain Dogs can adapt to apartment living, they require plenty of exercise and space to run around. A house with a yard is ideal.

Yes, Entlebucher Mountain Dogs are an active breed and require at least 1-2 hours of exercise per day.

Yes, Entlebucher Mountain Dogs have a thick double coat and shed moderately throughout the year.

Entlebucher Mountain Dogs have a lifespan of 11-15 years on average.

Entlebucher Mountain Dogs should be brushed at least once a week and bathed every 2-3 months.

An Entlebucher Mountain Dog can grow up to 50-52 cm in height.

The average weight of an Entlebucher Mountain Dog is between 20-30 kg.