


While we may never know their exact origins we do know that it was not until the late 19 th century, with the help of Albert Heim, a fan and promoter of the Sennenhunds, that the four breeds were recognized separately and bred to specific standards. Another theory is simply that sturdy, protective, and powerful dogs of this type had been bred in the region, long before the Romans arrived.Īnd some believe that the Sennenhund breeds are the result of interbreeding with the large dogs brought to Spain by the Phoenicians around 1100 BC which eventually made their way east. Many believe that they were developed from native Swiss dogs that were mixed with the Roman Molossus war dogs that accompanied the Roman soldiers during the time of the Roman incursions. There are several theories in regards to the origin of the Sennenhunds.

They also all have a tricolor coat that is black with white and rust-colored markings. However, that being said all four of the Swiss mountain dog breeds are heavy set, and well-known for their willingness to work, and being loving and devoted to their family. They range from medium to extra-large in size and have different traits and temperaments. In Switzerland, they are known as the Sennenhunds which means “dogs of the Alpine herdsmen.” Each of the Sennenhund breeds comes from a different region and was developed to fit the needs of the farmers in that area. The Swiss mountain dogs are all-around farm dogs and livestock guardians. So here are the four types of Swiss mountain dog breeds and what you’ll want to know about each of them. And while experts may disagree on their exact origins, one thing is for sure these canines are a special bunch. The Swiss Sennenhunds or Swiss mountain dogs are a unique group of dogs with tricolor coats from the Swiss Alps.
