Great Swiss Mountain Dog
Also known as Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund · Grand Bouvier Suisse · Gran Boyero Suizo
Switzerland, Swiss Mountain- and Cattledogs
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 60–72 cm
- Weight
- 40–63 kg
- Life expectancy
- 8–11 yrs
- Gentle
- Loyal
- Strong
- Good with family
- Watchful
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Great Swiss Mountain Dog
The Great Swiss Mountain Dog is the largest of the four Swiss mountain breeds, developed in the Alps as a farm dog for droving, guarding and pulling carts. It is a powerful, sturdy dog with a short double coat, black with rich rust and white markings. It is calm and strong and was once close to disappearing before enthusiasts revived it.
Temperament
Gentle, loyal and good-natured with family, and usually friendly with children. Can be a vocal watchdog and wary with strangers. Needs early socialisation and calm training, as it can be slow to mature.
Exercise
Needs daily moderate exercise: steady walks and some activity. Avoid excessive running while it is growing. It enjoys pulling and carrying work.
Grooming
Short double coat sheds heavily, especially seasonally. Brush a couple of times weekly, more often when shedding.
Care & wellbeing
A big, heavy dog that grows slowly, so keep young dogs lean and avoid too much jumping or stairs while they mature. Give it a large, firm bed and a cool place to rest.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 51.5 kg adult- Water
- 2.1 L–3.1 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 2,150 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Great Swiss Mountain Dog
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The largest of the Swiss mountain breeds, used in the Alps as a farm dog for drafting carts, driving cattle and guarding. It is a powerful, tricolour dog that is calm at home but needs steady training and space.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Gastric torsion (bloat)
- Splenic torsion
- Epilepsy
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scores
- Eye tests
Not every Great Swiss Mountain Dog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 8–11 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Great Swiss Mountain Dog right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
Think twice if
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Great Swiss Mountain Dog get?
Adult Great Swiss Mountain Dogs typically stand about 60–72 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 40–63 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Great Swiss Mountain Dogs live?
Typically 8–11 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Great Swiss Mountain Dog need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Great Swiss Mountain Dog need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Great Swiss Mountain Dogs easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Great Swiss Mountain Dogs shed?
Quite a lot. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control — expect more around spring and autumn.
Are Great Swiss Mountain Dogs good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Great Swiss Mountain Dog live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Great Swiss Mountain Dogs have?
The breed can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, gastric torsion (bloat), splenic torsion. Not every Great Swiss Mountain Dog is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Switzerland
- Type
- Swiss Mountain- and Cattledogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1954