The Swiss Mountain Dogs also known as “Sennenhunds” or the “coloured” dogs of Switzerland include four distinct breeds. In order of ascending size these are the Entlebucher, the Appenzeller, The Bernese and the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. They are all striking tricoloured dogs thought to be descended from an ancient hardworking dog breed with steadfast temperament originally introduced into Europe by the Romans.

Later the breeds developed as the loyal and hardworking companions to farmers working in remote alpine villages, hence the name “Senne” which translates to “alpine herdsman”.
 

Their uses included herding, drafting and guarding. The speed stamina of the smaller dogs made them excellent cattle drovers whilst the larger dogs were used to pull milk and cheese carts.

By the 1890’s the number of dogs began to decline significantly. With the advent of the Industrial Revolution, mechanised transport became more widely available. The use of dogs to transport loads and manage livestock became less important as the number of people gaining their living from the land began to decline.

By the early 20th century the mountain dogs were close to extinction. However through the efforts of the canine researcher and enthusiast Albert Heim the four breeds were effectively rescued. Wider recognition came along with the breed’s reputation as dependable carrier dogs in the Swiss army during the Second World War.

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