Swisses 101

Working group

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is one the giant Swiss breeds developed as Alpine farm and cart dogs. Today, these gentle dogs are a popular breed with families who have some room. They are intelligent, eager to please and relatively easy to train.

Nationwide Outline Icons Vibrant Blue Heart 24x24pxWhat we love about Swisses

Gentle giant makes a great companion

While Swissies may once have guarded their homes and people, today they are usually friendly to all. They are good with other family pets and adore children. Early socialization and manners training are necessary to prevent pulling on the leash as adults. They are perfect for active families, especially those who enjoy outdoor winter recreation.

Energy level
Energy LevelEnergy Level
Bark level
  • bark-very-vocalVery vocal
  • bark-talkativeTalkative
  • bark-as-neededAs needed
Size
23 to 27.5 inches tall
Group Size X large
Lifespan
8 to 11 years
020
Weight
85 to 140 lbs
0150

We want to see pictures of your Swiss!

Tag @NationwidePet on social media!

My pet’s health plannerSM

Mature adult Swiss

5 years to 7 years

Risk level for common Swiss conditions

risk-level-bar

Seizures

risk-level-bar

Skin cancer

risk-level-bar

Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

Senior Swiss

8+ years

Risk level for common Swiss conditions

risk-level-bar

Arthritis

risk-level-bar

Seizures

risk-level-bar

Intervertebral disc disease

Swiss puppy

0 to 1 year

Risk level for common Swiss conditions

risk-level-bar

Urinary tract infection

risk-level-bar

Gastroenteritis

risk-level-bar

Conjunctivitis

Young adult Swiss

1 year to 4 years

Risk level for common Swiss conditions

risk-level-bar

Foreign body ingestion

risk-level-bar

Seizures

risk-level-bar

Ear infection

Mature adult Swiss

5 years to 7 years

Risk level for common Swiss conditions

risk-level-bar

Seizures

risk-level-bar

Skin cancer

risk-level-bar

Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

Senior Swiss

8+ years

Risk level for common Swiss conditions

risk-level-bar

Arthritis

risk-level-bar

Seizures

risk-level-bar

Intervertebral disc disease

Swiss puppy

0 to 1 year

Risk level for common Swiss conditions

risk-level-bar

Urinary tract infection

risk-level-bar

Gastroenteritis

risk-level-bar

Conjunctivitis

Young adult Swiss

1 year to 4 years

Risk level for common Swiss conditions

risk-level-bar

Foreign body ingestion

risk-level-bar

Seizures

risk-level-bar

Ear infection

2-Greater Swiss mountain dog sitting up GettyImages-1283756071

Nationwide can help you save on your Greater Swiss Mountain Dog's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.

Get your Greater Swiss Mountain Dog’s health information in a free report

3-Fun fact-Greater Swiss mountain dog GettyImages-1092741178

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog was used to develop the Saint Bernard and the Rottweiler.

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog coat care and colors

As befitting a breed originating from the Swiss Alps, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has a downy undercoat and a short, weather-resistant overcoat. While the breed sheds all the time, the Swissie sheds most heavily in spring and fall, and because of their size, that means a lot of fur. Regular brushing and combing down to the skin will reduce shedding significantly. Acclimate to nail trims early to prevent struggles down the line. Some Swissies drool.

How often should I bathe my Greater Swiss Mountain Dog?

Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs can be bathed monthly, weekly or as needed (if they roll in mud, for example!). Use a pet-specific shampoo and conditioner or an all-in-one product. If your dog’s coat or skin isn’t looking healthy, check with your veterinary healthcare team to see what might be causing the problem.

What type of coat does my Greater Swiss Mountain Dog have?

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has a sleek, short coat.

How often should I brush my Greater Swiss Mountain Dog?

For a short-coated breed, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog sheds a fair amount. Weekly or even more frequent brushing will remove loose fur and keep shedding manageable.

Swiss exercise & training

Loves walks

Exercise level

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a gentle giant of modest exercise needs – a brisk daily walk will suit them well.

Class clown

Trainability

Swissies are smart and eager to please, but their adult size makes it essential to start training early – especially leash manners.

Swiss fun facts

Top girl names for Swisses

100%

of Swisses are female

0%

of Swisses are male

Top boy names for Swisses

Nationwide loves Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like Swisses

Best. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog insurance. Ever.SM

  • Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
  • Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
  • Cancel at any time, risk-free