These are large dogs with a powerful, developed chest, muscular build and strong paws of medium length. They have a thick neck, triangular ears, bent forward, falling on the cheeks. The tail is bent upwards and curled as usual. Color tricolor - black-white-brown.
The Appenzeller Sennenhund is an ancient breed of dog native to the Swiss Alps. There are different opinions about the origin of these animals. So, researchers Ann Rogers Clark and Andrew H. Brace believe that these big, kind dogs are descended from Roman shepherd dogs. The Romans delivered them during the conquests of Julius Caesar's successor - Octavian Augustus, and then the locals really liked these useful animals.
Due to their size, they were used not only for grazing, but also for other purposes - guarding estates and even a draft dog capable of moving loads in small carts. There are now four indigenous breeds of Sennenhunds in the Swiss Alps, with the Appenzeller Sennenhund being the rarest. The first serious references in the literature can be found in the middle of the 19th century, but only in 1989 the breed was officially recognized by international organizations. Moreover, if the International Cynological Federation classified them as cattle dogs, then the American Kennel Club did not recognize them at all, like some other English-speaking clubs.
The Appenzeller Sennenhund breed is distinguished not only by its strength, but also by the kindness of character. If you have a big family, this kind man is guaranteed to be the best friend of the kids. Although, in fairness, we note that the smallest should be allowed near the dog under the supervision of adults or older children, since due to its large size and weight, it can accidentally tip over the child.
In addition, cattle dog instincts are very deep in these animals, and sometimes they can manifest themselves in the fact that your dog can lightly bite children on the heels. Perhaps, in the mind of a dog, responsibility for sheep or cows is akin to responsibility for a child. By the way, the Appenzeller Mountain Dog takes this very responsibility very seriously. So seriously that in order to protect the herd entrusted to him, and, moreover, to protect children and his family, the dog is ready to give his life.
The protective qualities of these pets make them a good choice for keeping in a private home with their own fenced area, especially since they have an innate distrust of strangers. However, the dog needs early socialization - familiarity with different people, their smells and emotions, otherwise it can become too distrustful and show increased aggression and anxiety even on minor occasions. And this means that both your neighbors and your guests will feel uncomfortable, and your peace will not increase.
The Appenleller Mountain Dog has a huge supply of internal energy and needs constant activity. They cannot be closed at home for the whole day, otherwise the dog will become destructive, her character will deteriorate, she will suffer internally and pour her suffering outwardly. Training, long walks, playing with family members and other dogs is what you need.
Dogs of this type certainly need both obedience development and command training, which will provide the necessary food for the mind and body. Team training, education and socialization should begin at an early age, at about 5-6 months. Then the training will be most effective, and success - the most pronounced.
The Appenzeller Sennenhund is a very smart and quick-witted dog, they learn quickly and learn commands well. In this process, it is important for the owner to remain patient, and start with a playful form, which is most acceptable at an early age. If you do everything with kindness and without nerves, there will be no problems in education, since this breed has an obedient and inquisitive character by default.
Gradually, formative constraints can be added to the learning process. That is, do not give what you want until the pet does it right, but demonstrate a willingness to provide it. The simplest example is a treat after the successful execution of commands, and its absence when not executed.
The Appenzeller Sennenhund does not need too much grooming, as it is not very long. Brushing once a week will suffice. Be sure to keep your dog's nails trimmed and his ears and eyes clean. You need to bathe your pet at least once a week, and preferably two.
Dogs of the Appenzeller Sennenhund breed are distinguished by excellent health and endurance. They have an excellent metabolism, high energy levels and good immunity, so you are unlikely to have to visit the veterinarian except for the necessary vaccinations.
