White Swiss Shepherd Dog
Also known as Berger Blanc Suisse · Weisser Schweizer Schäferhund · Pastor Blanco Suizo
Switzerland, Sheepdogs
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 53–66 cm
- Weight
- 25–40 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Intelligent
- Loyal
- Sensitive
- Active
- Reserved
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the White Swiss Shepherd Dog
The White Swiss Shepherd Dog is a medium-to-large herding dog with a white coat, descended from white German Shepherd lines and recognised as a breed in its own right through Switzerland. It is strong, well-balanced and elegant, with upright ears, a medium or long double coat and a dark nose.
Temperament
Intelligent, loyal and sensitive, usually good with family. It can be reserved with strangers and sensitive to harsh handling. It responds well to positive training.
Exercise
Needs daily vigorous exercise and mental work, such as long walks, training and games. It enjoys having tasks.
Grooming
Dense double coat that sheds heavily, especially seasonally. Brush a few times a week, daily in the moult.
Care & wellbeing
Avoid overexercising puppies. Deep-chested dogs can be at risk of bloat, so avoid exercise around meals. Check ears and teeth.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 32.5 kg adult- Water
- 1.3 L–2 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,530 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 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 White Swiss Shepherd Dog
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A white herding dog descended from white-coated German Shepherd Dog lines, developed in Switzerland and North America and recognised as a separate breed. It is attentive, trainable and loyal, with a thick double coat.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Degenerative myelopathy
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scores
- DNA test for MDR1
Not every White Swiss Shepherd 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 12–14 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 White Swiss Shepherd Dog right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- 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 White Swiss Shepherd Dog get?
Adult White Swiss Shepherd Dogs typically stand about 53–66 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 25–40 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do White Swiss Shepherd Dogs live?
Typically 12–14 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 White Swiss Shepherd Dog need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a White Swiss Shepherd Dog need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are White Swiss Shepherd Dogs easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do White Swiss Shepherd Dogs shed?
Quite a lot. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control — expect more around spring and autumn.
Are White Swiss Shepherd 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 White Swiss Shepherd 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 White Swiss Shepherd Dogs have?
The breed can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy. Not every White Swiss Shepherd 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
- Sheepdogs
- Internationally recognised
- 2011