Entlebucher Sennenhund Dog Breed

The Entlebucher is a member of the Herding group in the AKC and other clubs. Originally developed in the Entlebuch region of Switzerland (hence the breed name) to drive cattle through rugged mountain terrain, the Entle is best suited as a working farm dog, but it also makes an enthusiastic pet for active families willing to give the dog the exercise it requires.

A few Entlebucher Sennenhund facts: they're medium-sized, averaging 18 inches at the shoulders in height and 55 pounds in weight; they have short, dense, double-layered coats that shed regularly; and as herding dogs, they'll need a lot of exercise.

Some advantages and drawbacks to owning an Entlebucher Mountain Dog:

Swiss Entlebucher Mountain Dog 101: this breed has incredible enthusiasm--so much so that in Switzerland, its nickname is "der Lachen Hunden," or "the Laughing Dog." These short-legged, energetic animals are in their element when they're tirelessly driving a herd of cattle up a steep mountainside, tongues hanging out and seemingly smiling from ear to ear.

Perhaps the most important piece of Entlebucher Mountain Dog information is that as a herding breed, the Entle is at its best when it has a job to do--be it fetching your slippers, or navigating an obstacle course in an agility competition. Without consistent outlets for their energy, Entlebuchers will become frustrated, disobedient, and even destructive. They also have naturally strong herding instincts, so they'll often try to nip, nudge, or otherwise try to control moving objects like kids, other animals, or even bicyclists! All this means an Entlebucher dog will need plenty of obedience training and socialization, starting during puppyhood if possible, to help curb some of these behaviors.

Despite its naturally high energy level, this breed is known for its loyalty and affection, particularly with its human family. If provided enough daily exercise, the Entlebucher Mountain Dog will be an excellent companion.

Energetic, intelligent, affectionate, protective, and sometimes stubborn, the Entlebucher Mountain Dog temperament is one of activity and loyalty. These dogs are highly task-oriented, and will need a lot of physical and mental stimulation to keep them happy. They can be a little stubborn at times too, and will need owners to play the roles of "alphas" to teach them proper respect. That said, Entle dogs are primarily happy and fun-loving; they usually get along great with kids; and they normally socialize well with other pets, though some have high prey drives that make them chase cats and other small animals.

In regards to training: the Entlebucher dog breed will take well to it, and should be able to learn tasks, tricks, and commands without too many repetitions. As with any breed, firm, consistent, reward-based training methods are best.

Another asset of the Entlebucher Mountain Dog personality is that it has good watchdog skills. From its years working with livestock, the Entle is alert and protective, and will likely sound a vocal alarm if it perceives an unknown sight or sound.

The Entlebucher is healthy overall, but may suffer issues including hip dysplasia, luxating patella, and various eye problems (the most serious of which is Progressive Retinal Atrophy, or PRA). A few dogs are also prone to a rare bladder condition called Entlebucher Urinary Syndrome (EUS). Potential owners are advised to ask breeders for health screenings for the dog and/or its parents, or they can have their own veterinarians do the screenings.

Life expectancy for these dogs is 11-13 years.