Appenzeller Sennenhund Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Appenzeller Sennenhund?

The 1853 publication, "Tierleben der Alpenwelt" (Animal Life in the Alps), was the first time an Appenzell Cattle Dog was described as a "high-pitch barking, short-haired, medium size, multicolour cattle dog of a quite even Spitz type, which can be found in certain regions and is used partly to guard the homestead, partly to herd cattle."

The accurate lineage of the Appenzeller Sennenhund is unknown. But it's easy to see the resemblance to other Swiss mountain dogs like the Bernese Mountain Dog, Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, and Entlebucher Mountain Dog.

During the 1800s, dogs very similar to the Appenzeller Sennenhund were very popular in Switzerland amongst farmers to protect livestock and pull carts.

The breed was first recognised by the Swiss Kennel Club, a breed club, at the end of the 19th century but it wasn't until 1914 that a Swiss cynologist and geologist by the name of Albert Heim established the first breeding standard for the Appenzeller Sennunhund. However, it is still a very uncommon breed internationally.

Who are Appenzeller Sennenhund dogs best for?

Bred to be cattle dogs, the Appenzeller Sennenhund is a dairy farmer's dog which makes them an extremely high-energy dog breed with a very high requirement for mental stimulation. If not provided with enough space or an outlet for this energy, like in a dog park or playing some dog sports, an adult dog can become restless and misbehave.

If socialised from a puppy age and with enough space for them to grow into a high-energy adult dogs, these are fantastic family dogs that enjoy being around children.

How much grooming does a Appenzeller Sennenhund need?

Originating in the mountains of the Swiss Alps, these herding dogs are bred to have a thick double coat to protect them from the extreme cold.

When it comes to dog breeds that have double coats, it is very important to note that you must not shave them as it can do long-term damage as the undercoat grows back faster and often overcrowds the guard hairs, which grow slower. This interferes with how the dog regulates its body temperature.

When grooming Appenzellers, it is much more beneficial to the dog to brush its coat out thoroughly.

An Appenzeller Sennenhund needs regular brushing to avoid matting of their coat, be prepared for mountains of dog hair because seasonal shedding is part of the deal. So during these shedding periods, they will need even more regular brushing sessions to remove all the excess fur in their coat.

Do Appenzeller Sennenhund bark much?

The Appenzeller Sennenhund is a very vocal breed which is part of what makes them such a good guard dog breed. The American Kennel Club has their barking level ranked at a four out of five, with one being only barking to alert and five being very vocal. These dogs will not only bark at something to alert you but they are known to bark at passers-by and anything that moves.

Do Appenzeller Sennenhund bite?

When it comes to medium to large dog breeds that are bred to be high-energy working dogs, like the Appenzeller Sennenhund, they need to be properly socialised at a young age with other dogs, people, and children. They need to be provided with constant stimulation and disciplined training to be safe family pets.

What is the temperament & personality of a Appenzeller Sennenhund?

Appenzeller Sennenhunde develops a very strong connection with their family and loves attention. They tend to jump up a lot and love being very in your face! They like to shove their body against your leg and are generally very enthusiastic dogs. They are child friendly but tend to be a bit boisterous and can knock the little ones over.

They can be quite dominant and pushy, but these characteristics are necessary traits for a dog who must control livestock. Because of this, they have been known to chase and nip at the heels of things that move i.e., joggers and cyclists.

What is the weight & size of a Appenzeller Sennenhund?

The Appenzeller Sennenhund weighs between 20kg-30kg and stands between 45cm and 55cm tall with a square, muscular build. These athletic dogs are agile and like to throw their weight around.

How much training does a Appenzeller Sennenhund need?

It is very important to start training and socialising your Appenzeller, ideally when they are still puppies, to prevent the establishment of bad behaviour. These dogs are very intelligent and will learn commands very fast, but they do tend to be a bit stubborn at times.

As a breed in general, they do not respond well to harsh behavioural corrections which is why it is recommended to always utilise positive-reinforcement training techniques like treats and praise. Keeping the training sessions fun and dynamic is also very helpful in maintaining their attention since training is just a game for a dog.

"Respect Training" is a very important dog training method that is recommended when training Appenzellers. A dog that respects its owner will be obedient and will stop what they are doing when told "No."

What are some of the most common health issues for a Appenzeller Sennenhund?

Appenzellers are generally a very healthy breed and have few health issues associated with them. Appenzeller can experience pain caused by hip dysplasia as they get older. Cataracts are a common health problem associated with this breed as well.

Epilepsy can also be an issue for Appenzellers, this is a hereditary condition that causes seizures that can be worked out through proper breeding practice.

What is the lifespan of a Appenzeller Sennenhund?

The life expectancy of these Mountain dogs is 12 to 15 years, but often this breed is known to provide their families with even more years of love and companionship given the correct diet, comfortable life and loads of love.

How much should you feed a Appenzeller Sennenhund?

Generally 2 measured feedings a day of high-quality dog food with high protein, nutrient-dense food will make sure that your dog is getting the essential nutrition needed to support an active dog as well as additional supplementation of omega 3 to help support the brain function required in such an intelligent breed.

What is the price of a Appenzeller Sennenhund in Australia?

The general price for Appenzeller Sennenhund puppies starts at about $1000. Unfortunately, breeders for these types of dogs are not very common in Australia.

The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Western Australia focuses their efforts on all four Swiss Mountain Dog breeds, and they will be able to direct you to a breeder close to you if you are looking for a puppy. They also have a rescue program; if you are looking to adopt a rescue, they have some wonderful rescue dogs available.