Appenzeller Sennenhund

Breed Profile

The Appenzeller Sennenhund is a medium-sized mountain dog, one of the four regional breeds of Sennenhund-type dogs from the Swiss Alps. As the name suggests, the Sennenhund refers to people called Senn, herders in the Appenzell region of Switzerland. The Appenzeller Sennenhund was originally reared for cattle herding. It was also used as a draft dog and general farm dog. The breed also was known for its intense devotion to both the herd and the guard, resulting in them being ultra protective. Today the breed is primarily kept as a companion.

Temperament

As with all medium to large, very active working dogs, the Appenzeller Sennenhund should be well socialized early on in life, together with other dogs and people. Furthermore, it should be given the opportunity to exercise and train on a daily basis if it is to be safely kept as a pet. If trained properly, they bond closely with their owners and thrives on the attention it gets. They are a versatile, agile and lively breed.