The Entlebucher Mountain Dog

Background
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog (also called the Entlebucher Sennenhund) originates from Entlebuch, a valley in Switzerland, and is the smallest of the four Swiss Mountain Dogs: The Enlebucher, the Bernese Mountain Dog, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, and the Appenzeller. All Swiss Mountain Dogs are descended from Molossers (strong, large dogs who were brought to Switzerland by the Romans in the 1st century B.C.). The Entlebucher was used to herd cattle to and from mountain pastures and in 1889 he was referenced as a distinct breed for the first time.

The Entlebucher Mountain Dog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2011.

Sizing up

  • Weight: 45 to 65 lbs.
  • Height: 16 to 20 inches
  • Coat: Double, short and thick
  • Color: Tricolor coat of black, tan, and white
  • Life expectancy: 10 to 13 years


What’s the Entlebucher Mountain Dog like?
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is confident, protective, and territorial. He has a very deep bark, which makes him a great watch dog for his beloved family, but isn’t so trusting towards strangers and it takes a little while for him to warm up to people. The Entlebucher loves attention and affection and wants to know where you are and what you’re doing at all times. He is very rowdy and lively, so he doesn’t always mix well with small children.

The Entlebucher prefers cool temperatures and can overheat easily so it is important to make sure he always has water and shade when he’s outside. He is very active and likes to climb anything he can. He also likes to chase rabbits, squirrels, and anything he doesn’t recognize so keep an eye on him. 

Grooming your Entlebucher is easy but he sheds frequently. You’ll want to brush him weekly to remove any dead hair before it lands all over your furniture.

Health
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog can have Entlebucher urinary syndrome (EUS) which occurs when the ureter doesn’t connect with the urinary bladder in the normal location. 

Also watch for the following:

Cataracts

  • A condition that clouds the lens of the eye and in some cases can lead to blindness.


Progressive retinal atrophy

  • An eye condition that worsens over time and could lead to loss of vision


Takeaway points

  • The Entlebucher Mountain Dog does not like being alone, so if you have a job with long hours this may not be the breed for you.
  • The Entlebucher Mountain Dog would be a good fit for a family with older children.
  • The Entlebucher Mountain Dog likes a good chase, putting up a fence is not be a bad idea.
  • The Entlebucher Mountain Dog would make a great companion for someone who enjoys hiking, bike rides, or long walks.

If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian -- they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.