The Appenzeller Sennenhunde, also known as the Appenzeller Mountain Dog and Appenzell Cattle Dog, is one of four Swiss dog breeds — the other three being: the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Entlebucher. The Appenzeller was originally bred as a cattle herding dog as well as livestock guardian in Switzerland. It is believed that the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is the oldest of the Swiss breeds with the others descending from it. The Appenzeller is the rarest of the Swiss breeds. The first valid Breed Standard was prepared in 1914 with its original breeding territory being the Appenzell region. Today, the breed is found all over Switzerland and in many European countries. However, breeding stock is still limited and, though gaining in popularity, the breed is still rare in North America.
Today, the breed is still commonly used as a livestock guardian, herding dog, draft animal and an all-purpose farm dog. He is also seen participating in obedience and performing Shutzhund work. In addition, in his native Switzerland, the Appenzeller is seen working as a Avalanche Rescue Dog, Tracking Dog and Protection work.
The Appenzeller is a muscular but not massive, large medium-sized dog with a short, smooth coat. Unique to the Appenzeller, from the other three Swiss breeds, is the carrying of the tail curled over his back. In addition, he also has a more refined head and body. The most commonly seen Appenzeller coat colour is tri-coloured, with a black ground coat and rich rust and clear white markings. However a base colour of "Havannah brown" — similar to the brown of a Chocolate Labrador Retriever — is sometimes seen.
Known for his agility, endurance and high energy, the Appenzeller is outgoing but suspicious of strangers. The Appenzeller is a working dog and bred as such. He has very strong group and protective instincts and is very loyal and devoted to his family, home and property. This is a dog who thrives in the company of his family, is very intelligent, easily trained and aims to please. The Appenzeller has a natural mistrust toward strangers and strong guarding instincts stemming from his work as a cattle dog. As a herding dog, he is known to instinctively sense the behaviour of each animal in the herd and often reacts before a situation occurs.
Because the Appenzeller is a high energy breed, he needs plenty of exercise both physical and mental and is not the breed for everyone.
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Health Issues:
If you are considering the adoption of a Appenzeller Sennenhunde puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. This should include, among others, hip x-rays to exclude hip dysplasia and eyes should be checked to see that they are normal and PRA clear. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Additional Health Resources:
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Breed Standards:
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Grooming:
- Grooming — See the Grooming section of the Canada's Guide to Dogs for details.
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Training Resources:
- Training — For information on training your Appenzeller Sennenhunde, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
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Additional Information:
- Clubs, Sports and Activities — Information on various dog sports and activities as well as non-breed specific clubs from across Canada. (For breed specific clubs, please see the Breed Clubs section.)
- Working Dogs — Information on the working dog, including Guide Dogs, Therapy Dogs, Police Dogs, SAR Dogs, and much more. Plus lists of organizations from across Canada.
- Herding Dogs — A section of the Canada's Guide to Dogs website which includes training and general information about Herding/Stock Dogs; listing of Stock Dog Clubs and Associations; listing of upcoming shows and events; and more.
