The Appenzeller is initially an all-around farm dog breed. They used to stay busy by guarding the farm, herding the livestock, as well as pulling carts in his native Switzerland. The Appenzeller that we know today still got the energy, self-confidence, and intelligence that makes them perfect to be valuable working dogs. However, they’re anything but low-maintenance. This dog breed needs lots of exercise, training, and attention. In this article, we are going to learn more about Appenzeller Sennenhunds.
History
In 1853, the Appenzell Cattle Dog was described as a Spitz type, short-haired, high-pitch barking, multi-colored cattle dog. Back then, they were used to guard the homestead and herd cattle in his inherent region of Appenzell, Switzerland. Later in 1898, with the help of a breeder named Max Siber, the Appenzeller was finally designated as a breed of its own by the Swiss Cynological Society. After that, a Professor named Dr. Albert Heim, who a committed swankier of Swiss Cattle Dogs, Initiated the Appenzeller Sennenhund Club and established it in 1906 to promote and preserve the said breed.
Today, Appenzeller Sennenhunds are seen all over Switzerland as well as in other parts of Europe. Even if they are still considered rare, several Appenzeller breeds are slowly increasing in places such as North America as well.
Characteristics of the Appenzeller Sennenhund
Height: 19-22 inches
Weight: 48-70 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Hypoallergenic: No
Appenzeller Sennenhunds are medium-sized dog breeds. Male Appenzeller dogs can stand up to 52-56cm at the withers, while female Appenzellers stands a little shorter at 50-54cm. Sennenhunds are dramatically beautiful, medium-sized dog, that adapts well for the tasks that they are intended to perform. Appenzeller Sennenhunds sports a double coat, which helps them keep up well during cold winters. This dog breed has three colored fur, and they consist of the colors black, brown, and white. Appenzeller Sennenhunds has a wedge-shaped head along with ears that hang close to their face. They have a broad and deep chest and their straight and well-muscled limbs. Dogs that belong to this breed are extremely intelligent, and they succeed well when learning and performing new tasks. They make the perfect guard dog because they are always alert and cautious of strangers. They tend to bark and warn them away to make sure that their owner knows of their presence. They can sometimes be extremely territorial, and you have to remember that great caution is advised to any unwanted guest because this dog breed can become aggressive towards intruders. In fact, they are often described as a one-person dog, because they form a secure attachment with only one owner in particular.
Caring for Appenzeller Sennehunds
The Appenzeller Sennenhund should be healthy, eating high-quality dog food, it doesn’t matter if they are commercially manufactured or if you prepare it yourself with your veterinarian’s approval. Any diet is appropriate to the dog’s age, whether they are still puppies, adult, or a senior. Some Appenzeller Sennenhunds are prone to getting overweight, so it would be best if you watch your dog’s calorie intake as well as their weight level. While giving treats is important when you’re training them, you should be mindful if you’re giving too many because it can cause obesity. It would help if you always gave you Appenzeller Sennenhund clean and freshwater, and it should be available all the time. Dogs that belong to this breed are hardworking, and they have boundless energy. Keep in mind that early socialization is required, and training while they are in old age is crucial. Also, remember that they are not the dog breed that thrives in the suburbs or in a busy urban environment unless you give them a lot of activity. Appenzeller Sennenhunds likes to be outside where their strong herding and guarding instincts are practiced.