The Appenzell Cattle Dog is a breed originating from Appenzell (Switzerland), first described in 1853. Originally the dogs were bred to guard and drive cattle. It is one of the four breeds of Swiss Mountain Dogs. The breed is characterized by its tricolor coat and its agility and energy.
General details
The breed has a medium size and a strong constitution. The weight ranges between 22 and 32 kilograms, while the height varies between 51 and 56 centimeters. Their life expectancy is 13 to 15 years. The Appenzell Cattle Dog belongs to Group 2 of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which includes Pinscher and Schnauzer type dogs, Molossers, mountain type dogs and Swiss Cattle Dogs.
Breed history in brief
The Appenzell Cattle Dog originated in Switzerland (Appenzell) in the 19th century. The breed was bred for herding, driving cattle and even guarding. It is considered to be descended from the crossing of Molossian dogs, brought to Switzerland by the Romans, with Swiss herding dogs.
The breed was recognized by the Swiss Kennel Club in 1898 where it received the name Appenzeller Sennenhund. Today, the breed is common in Switzerland, although it is gaining popularity in other European countries and North America. The Appenzeller Sennenhund continues to perform tasks such as herding or search and rescue, however, it has also acquired a reputation as a companion animal.
Breed characteristics
The Appenzell Cattle Dog is a dog with a very balanced, almost square build. The body is compact with a long straight back. The head is slightly wedge-shaped with small, almond-shaped eyes, not prominent. The color of the eyes varies between lighter or darker shades of brown. The ears are set fairly high, triangular, pendant and with rounded tips.
The coat is double, with a thick undercoat and a top coat also thick but shiny and smooth. It shows a tricolor coat, the main color being black or dark brown, with white patches on chest, face and feet, and reddish-brown areas.
Dogs of the breed are characterized by their energetic and protective nature, and they adapt and cope easily with change. Their high level of activity requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to avoid destructive behavior. They are distrustful of strangers, but friendly with other dogs.
Common health problems
As with other dog breeds, the Appenzell Cattle Dog can be prone to health problems. Some of the most common disorders and diseases are hip dysplasia, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy and gastric volvulus dilatation.
In addition to the aforementioned conditions, the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) recommends a cardiac and ocular screening examination, as well as a series of tests to assess the following diseases: elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, degenerative myelopathy and autoimmune thyroiditis.
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