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ABOUT DOG BREEDS
 GREATER SWISS MOUNTAIN DOG
Description Temperament Height and Weight Health Problems
Ideal Living Conditions Exercise Life Expectancy Litter Size
Grooming Origin Group Color
Breed Clubs Breed Rescues

Description
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has a frame that is sturdy and well developed. It has an elongated neck that extends smoothly into its level back. It stands on straight legs that are well muscled. It has a large head with a vague stop. Its ears, average in length, are set high and hang. The coat is coarse and short.
Temperament
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a breed that finds it hard to escape its guard dog traits. It seeks to protect its family from outside harm. The breed is unique in that it does not impart aggression, but watches to make sure that unfamiliar people or animals do not enter the family home. All welcome visitors should be introduced to the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog so that it will show friendly behavior. Otherwise the breed will have suspicions about the guest and possibly bark at them. The breed is loving with everyone in its family, including children and other pets.
Height and Weight
The average height of the Greater Swiss Mountain is 23-28 inches. The breed weighs around 130-135 pounds.
Health Problems
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is susceptible to only a few health problems that are common to most dogs. These conditions include hip dysplasia and bloat. Some types may develop problems with their digestion.
Ideal Living Conditions
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog will adapt to most environments, but is most suited for outdoor living conditions. Small living spaces, such as apartments, generally offer the breed very little opportunities to be active. However, small spaces are fine if the breed is taken out regularly for exercise. In addition to outdoor environments, the breed is also most content in environments that tend to have cool temperatures.
Exercise
Regular exercise must be a part of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog's regimen. The breed requires a significant amount of exercise.
Life Expectancy
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog typically lives 10-11 years.
Litter Size
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog tends to have 4-8 puppies.
Grooming
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has a smooth coat that does not require a significant amount of attention. As with most dogs, brushing the breed's coat will help to keep it smooth and remove any excess fur in shedding season.
Origin
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog comes from a long line of mountain dogs that originated in the Swiss
Group
Mastiff
Color
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has a coat of multiple colors. The most common colors are black, white, and tan.
Breed Clubs
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club of America http://www.gsmdca.org Lake Shore Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club http://www.lsgsmdc.org Cascade Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club http://ww.cascadeswissyclub.com Lone Star Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs http://www.greaterswissmountaindogs.com
Breed Rescues
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club of America Rescue http://www.gsmdca.org/Rescue.htm Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Club of America Rescue http://www.gsmdca.org/rescue

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