Sennenhund

Sennenhund is the collective name for four related Swiss mountain dog breeds bred for farm work in the Alps. The term comes from Senn, alpine herders. The four breeds are the Bernese Mountain Dog, Entlebucher Mountain Dog, Appenzeller Sennenhund, and Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. They were developed as versatile farm dogs for herding, hauling, and guarding.

Appearance varies, but all are sturdy, large dogs with strong work instincts. The Bernese and Greater Swiss are the largest; the Entlebucher is the smallest. Coat length ranges from short to long. Typical color patterns are: Bernese—black with white chest and rust; Entlebucher—black with white and tan; Appenzeller—black, white, and tan; Greater Swiss—red or mahogany with white markings.

Temperament is usually calm, loyal, and confident. They are good family dogs and watchdogs, often wary of strangers without early socialization. They benefit from consistent training and regular mental and physical activity. Socialization and positive reinforcement help them adapt to different environments.

Care and health: They molt seasonally; grooming needs depend on coat length. They require daily exercise and space due to their size. Common health concerns include joint disorders such as hip and elbow dysplasia, gastric torsion in large breeds, and certain heart conditions. Lifespans generally range from about 7 to 12 years depending on the breed.