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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Entlebucher Mountain Dog
The Entlebucher (pronounced Ent-lay-boo-cur) is the smallest of the Swiss Mountain
cattle dogs including the Appenzell Mountain Dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog and the
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. They are short, medium-sized and have a muscular appearance.
The muzzle is straight, the skull is flat and the jaw is well-formed and powerful.
The eyes are rather small and are dark brown. The nose is always black. The triangle-shaped
ears are rounded at the tips, set high and hang down against the cheeks. The neck
is short and is set well into the shoulders. The backline is level with a slight
slope over the croup. The chest is broad and deep. The Entlebucher is usually born
with a natural bobtail. Some breeders elect to dock the tails while others enjoy
the long black tail with a wisp of white on the tip. The shiny coat is short and
hard. This breed is tri-colored, with a jet black ground color and rich rust and
clear white markings.
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Temperament
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The Entlebucher is easy going, intelligent and very trainable. They get along well
with children and other animals. This clean breed barks only out of concern and
makes a great family pet. Keep in mind that this muscular breed is solid and can
unknowingly knock kids down. They are not a pet for people who leave home for long
periods of time. They do not do well left alone in the backyard as they love to
be close to their human companions. They are eager to serve and to help out. They
enjoy pulling carts and excel at herding. The Entlebucher loves to swim but hates
bath tubs. They need to be trained and socialized from puppyhood. They are protective
but not aggressive. The Entlebucher is not recommended for a first-time dog owner.
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Height, Weight
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Height: 16-20" ; Weight: 55-65 lbs.
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Health Problems
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Health concerns for the Entlebucher include PRA and hip dysplasia.
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Living Conditions
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The Entlebucher is not suitable for apartment living. They also do not do well in
hot and humid climates.
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Exercise
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This healthy breed requires lots of daily exercise. A regular regimen of physical
exercise will keep the breed content as well as healthy.
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Life Expectancy
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About 11-15 years
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Grooming
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The Entlebucher is exceptionally clean and requires little grooming.
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Origin
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The Entlebucher is named after a town and region in the Swiss canton of Lucerne
named Entlebuch. It is thought to be descended from fighting and guarding mastiffs
of the Roman legions. This breed is very popular in Switzerland and is rarely seen
outside of its native country. They were saved from extinction by Franz Schertenleib
in the 1800s. With the help of a Zurich show judge, Profession Albert Heim, the
two scoured the Swiss countryside searching for mountain dogs so that they could
be bred and continue to thrive. The Entlebucher was recognized by the United Kennel
club on January 1, 1993. They are also recognized by the FCI, CKC and have been recently accepted by the AKC.
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Group
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AKC Herding, UKC Guardian Dog
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