Entlebucher Puppies Blog

They are two of the four Swiss Mountain dogs, all four are: Bernese Mountain Dog, Appenzeller, Entlebucher, Great Swiss Mountain dDg.
For first look, the two breeds can look quite similar, both are tri-colored, and have similar shape – but the first difference that we can notice is that the Great Swiss Mountain Dog (as we could guess from the name) is taller and heavier than the Entlebucher: the first breed weighs about 40-65 kgs and is 60-72 cm tall, while his colleuge is only 25-30 kgs and 48-51 cm tall as an average.
Both were bred to be working dogs – the difference is that Swissies used to be flock guardians, while the Entlebucher’s task was to work as a herding dog.

The Entlebucher Mountain dog is called by several names: because they were used by the Senn herders in the Alps, they are called Entlebucher Sennehund. Another name was given due to their function as a herding dog; the Entlebucher Cattle Dog. This breed is the smallest of four Sennenhunds: The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, The Bernese Mountain Dog, and the Appenzeller.

The Federation Cynologique Internationale recognizes the breed as a native of Switzerland and having its standard established there as well. Other clubs such as the American Kennel Club recognizes the breed and is still working on other clubs in Australia and New Zealand.  Because of the small number of them around, several health concerns are present such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), Hip dysplasia, and hemolytic anemia, and other congenital defects. Steps are being taking by the National Entlebucher Mountain Dog Association to assist in eliminating these issues.

The Entlebucher Sennenhund, also known as the Entlebucher Mountain Dog is the smallest of four Sennenhunds and comes from a municipality in Lucerne, Switzerland called Entlebuch. “Senn” are Swiss Alps herders. Bred as working dogs, it can be identified by its short, close fitting and shiny tri-color coat which is basic black with patches or markings of mahogany or tan.

It is rough to the touch, their bodies are compact, well muscled and a chest that is broad. A wedge shaped head with dark brown almond shaped eyes and ears which are triangular and pendulous. These dogs can stand between 16 to 20 inches and weigh around 20 to 30 kilograms.  This dog has a very boisterous personality and enjoys being around its human family. Apartment living is not recommended due to the tendency of the dog being noisy. Although, they are great watchdogs that will alert their owners without fail. Affectionate and loving, they are completely devoted to pleasing their masters as well as demand the same attention.

This is one sturdy little package of a dog! You want intelligence? You got it. You want personality? You got it. You want agility? You got it. You want loyalty? You got it. If you are the type of person, that loves to have a wagging tail by your side at all times, then this is the dog for you, since the Entlebucher is the happiest if he can be by your side every waking hour. Strangely enough, while being a very independent and self confident breed, the Entlebucher, seeks companionship and is very attached to the people that it loves. It must be made a part of the family. One of the greatest qualities – and something to truly respect about this breed- is the loyalty and true devotion it feels to master and family. If you intend to have this dog in the back yard, then this is not the dog for you. Unless, of course you and the family will be there as well.

Being ever-watchful and territorial, an Entlebucher is aloof with strangers. It thus excells at watch-dog duties. They will always let you know when there is an intruder! Although their confidence and social needs are undeniable, they need to be trained and socialized from an early age. Entlebuchers love children in general. An Entlebucher keenly senses and respects social hierarchy, and therefore the head of the household should be the main trainer. This is an active and playful breedthat makes an excellent play mate for children that it grows up with. It looks out for their safety under any circumstances.

The Entlebucher, which is also called the Entlebucher Sennenhund; the Entlebucher Mountain Dog and the Entlebucher Cattle Dog is the smallest member of the Swiss Mountain Dog family that also includes the Appenzeller , the Bernese Mountain Dog and the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. Although these are all cousins and belong to this family of Swiss mountain dogs, the Entlebucher mountain dog stands alone due to its smaller size. The breeds of this group all share a unique tri-colour coat, a heavy build and a kind, calm temperament. These breeds are rare and not very well known. Like all of the Swiss mountain dogs, the origins of the Entlebucher are ancient, probably dating back to Roman times. Only from 1926 has the Entlebucher breed been openly recognized as a separate purebred from the Appenzeller, since they share a lot of common features.

The Entlebucher:

The Appenzeller:

The Bernese Mountain Dog:

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: