Leonberger

Chihuahua shorthair or longhair profileHistory of the ChihuahuaThe Chihuahua is considered a very old breed from Mexico and bears the name of the Mexican state of Chihuahua. In older descriptions, the connection to the "Techichi", a small type of dog from pre-Columbian times, is often mentioned.AppearanceBody shape: They get a very small, compact dog with an alert expression and large ears. The "apple head" (domed skull) is typical of the Chihuahua. Coat: The coat of the shorthair is smooth and close-lying. Longhairs are longer, silky and show feathering (e.g. on ears and tail), without a "flowing" coat.Nature and characterMany Chihuahuas are very affectionate, attentive and courageous in appearance. They are often closely attached to their caregiver and can be reserved towards strangers if they do not establish socialization and calmness early on.GroomingGrooming is usually straightforward: short-haired Chihuahuas often only need occasional brushing, while long-haired Chihuahuas should be brushed more regularly to prevent tangles. Consistent dental care is also worthwhile, as small breeds are more prone to dental problems.HealthYou should pay particular attention to typical breed issues such as patellar luxation, tracheal collapse, dental problems, hypoglycemia (especially in very small, young dogs) as well as hydrocephalus and an open fontanel.TrainingThe best way forward is with friendly consistency and reward training. Important early on: house-training routine, calm development of staying alone, leash training (without pulling on the neck, better well-fitting harness) and clear boundary management so that the dog does not "control everything".What special features does this breed haveThe Chihuahua is a real companion dog: very small, often very people-oriented and likes to be everywhere. At the same time, it is physically more sensitive than many larger dogs (cold, falls, overloading), which is why you should give more thought to protection, weight and a safe environment.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Often yes, if you remain consistent, take small dog issues seriously (teeth, heat/cold, safety) and work on socialization and calmness early on. If you want a dog that is "automatically inconspicuous" without training, it can be difficult despite its size.Family dog or not?This may be suitable if children are calm and considerate and you consistently avoid falls, picking up and rough play. In very turbulent households, management is important so that the small dog is not overwhelmed or injured.

The Irish Setter History The Irish Setter, or more precisely the Irish Red Setter, was bred in Ireland as a hunting dog for bird hunting. The breed originated from the Irish Red and White Setter and solid red dogs and was already clearly recognisable as a separate type in the 18th century. The Irish Red Setter Club was founded in 1882 and published a breed standard in 1886; later, field trials and working guidelines were also established. Appearance Body shape: The Irish Setter is an elegant, athletic and well-balanced dog with a lean, athletic build. It appears capable, agile and enduring, without appearing heavy or coarse. Typical features include a deep chest, good musculature and an overall harmonious, racy appearance. Coat: The coat is one of the breed’s most striking features. It is red to chestnut, smooth to slightly wavy and lies close to the body. On the ears, chest, belly, legs and tail, it displays distinct, silky feathering. Nature/character The Irish Setter is considered to be friendly, intelligent, lively and very people orientated. He is alert, spirited and full of drive, but at the same time usually affectionate and closely attached to his family. His cheerful, open nature is typical. Due to his hunting disposition, he brings a lot of energy, joy of movement and often also a clear will to track and search. Grooming Grooming is generally manageable, but should be done regularly. The silky feathering on the ears, chest, belly, legs and tail in particular must be brushed to prevent matting. In addition, ears, paws, claws and teeth should be checked, especially after walks in tall grass, woods or fields. Health The Irish Setter is generally regarded as an active and powerful breed, but certain health problems can occur. These include hip dysplasia and various eye diseases such as progressive retinal atrophy. As with other athletic, larger dogs, responsible breeding, a healthy body weight and sensibly monitored growth are also important. Education Training should be friendly, clear and consistent. The Irish Setter is smart and eager to learn, but also temperamental and easily distracted, especially when game odours or movement stimuli come into play. Early socialisation, recall training and a good balance of exercise, nose work and mental exercise are particularly important. Harsh methods do not suit this sensitive, people-orientated breed.  What are the special features of this breed? What is special about the Irish Setter is the combination of elegance, passion for hunting and a cheerful temperament. It is not a cosy companion dog, but an enduring, very active dog with a real working disposition. At the same time, he is often extremely charming, playful and friendly towards people. His bright red coat also makes him instantly recognisable. Suitable for first-time dog owners? Conditional. A committed first-time dog owner can get on well with an Irish Setter if there is enough time, willingness to exercise and willingness to learn. However, the breed is not always easy because it needs a lot of exercise, consistent training and good management of the hunting instinct. If you are looking for a calm, undemanding beginner's dog, an Irish Setter is usually not the best choice. Family dog or not? Yes, in principle the Irish Setter can be a very good family dog. He is usually friendly, affectionate and playful and often seeks to be close to his humans. They are best suited to active families who spend a lot of time outdoors and enjoy keeping a lively and active dog busy. Without sufficient exercise and activity, he often becomes unbalanced in everyday life.

French Bulldog Characteristics Body shape: Not too large a dog, strong build, compact build Short, smooth coat Broad skull with upturned nose Prick ears and a short tail are natural Coat: Very dense, shiny coat without undercoat The following colours are possible: solid, brindle, pied or fawn Character of the French BulldogThe French Bulldog is a companion with a strong character, courageous and curious. It is cheerful and playful, sometimes a little stubborn, but always very focussed on people. It  is sensitive to heat and should therefore not be exposed to the sun for long periods. It is a socialised and people-loving dog breed and does not show aggressive behaviour. Her family will protect her in case of danger. It likes a lot of exercise, but as it needs little space, it is also suitable for city dwellers. The French Bulldog is an ideal family and companion dog. The French Bulldog has an even temperament. EducationThe French Bulldog needs loving and consistent training. However, it always wants to please its owner, which is why it is not one of the most difficult dog breeds. Early socialisation is worthwhile so that the French Bulldog also accepts other dogs as play partners. Special featuresWith the French Bulldog, it is particularly important to ensure that it can breathe freely.

Profile Bolonka ZwetnaHistory of the Bolonka ZwetnaThe Bolonka Zwetna is a small companion dog from Russia. According to the VDH, the first standard was created and confirmed in the 1960s, after which the breed continued to develop as a colored lapdog type.AppearanceBody shape: You will get a small, compact dog that looks rather square and should be sturdily built despite its miniature size. Coat: The long coat falls in waves or curls and is the most striking feature of the breed.Nature and characterMany Bolonkas are cheerful, affectionate and very people-oriented. They often don't like to be left alone, but they like to be everywhere in everyday life.GroomingYou should brush and comb the coat regularly to prevent it from matting, especially on the ears, armpits, belly and "pants". A regular grooming routine is more important than infrequent "big jobs".HealthAs a small breed, the Bolonka is often considered to be quite robust, but breed-typical issues such as patellar problems (patella) and tartar in small dogs are something you should keep an eye on (preventive breeding and dental care help).TrainingThey usually do well with friendly consistency and reward training. Because Bolonkas are very people-oriented, bonding often works easily, but early training for staying alone and everyday calmness is important.What special features does this breed haveThe Bolonka is a typical companion dog: small, likes to be close to its body and is often very focused on its owner. This makes it a great everyday partner, but can lead to problems when left alone without training.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Often yes, if you allow time for closeness, grooming and consistent basic training. It is particularly important that you clearly establish topics such as staying alone, leash training and rules in the household right from the start.Family dog or not?As a family dog, it can be a good fit if children are calm and considerate with a small dog. In very wild households, management is important so that the dog is not overwhelmed.

The Dutch Shepherd Dog History of the Dutch Shepherd The Dutch Shepherd Dog is an old Dutch landrace. Originally, it was a versatile working dog for shepherds and farmers. It kept flocks away from fields, accompanied them to pastures, markets and harbors, helped on farms with herding cattle and guarded farms and property. When sheep farming in the Netherlands declined sharply around 1900, the breed was increasingly used as a police, search, tracking and guide dog. Appearance Body shape: The Dutch Shepherd Dog is of medium size, medium weight, well muscled and well proportioned. It appears strong, enduring and harmonious, yet neither cumbersome nor clumsy. Typical is an athletic, resilient build with a lively and intelligent expression. Coat: The breed comes in three coat varieties, namely shorthair, longhair and roughhair. They all have a functional, weatherproof coat. The recognized color is brindle on a golden or silver base color; the brindle should be clearly visible over the body. Temperament/character The Dutch Shepherd Dog is considered loyal, reliable, alert, watchful, active and intelligent. He likes to work together with his human, but can also solve tasks independently. Typical characteristics are his stamina, his ability to grasp things quickly and his real working dog nature. He is often close to his family, but is more controlled and alert with strangers than pushy. Grooming The amount of grooming required depends greatly on the coat variety. Short-haired dogs are comparatively easy to groom, long-haired dogs require more regular brushing and rough-haired dogs usually need hand-stripping. In addition, ears, claws, teeth and paws should be checked regularly, especially in very active dogs. Health The breed is generally considered to be quite robust, but health checks play an important role in responsible breeding. Depending on the line and variety, attention is paid to hips and elbows, among other things, as well as to certain genetic or eye-related problems. These include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy and other specific risks in individual lines or coat varieties. Training Training should start early and be clear, fair and consistent. The Dutch Shepherd is very capable of learning and eager to work, but needs a task and a leader to guide him. Underchallenge can quickly lead to undesirable behavior. Positive, structured training and good socialization are particularly important because the breed can be both sensitive and very willing to perform. What are the special features of this breed? What makes this breed special is its versatility. The Dutch Shepherd is not just a companion dog, but a real working dog with a high motivation to work. It combines endurance, intelligence, alertness and independence with a close bond to its owner. In addition, there is the brindle coat color typical of the breed and the division into three different coat varieties. Suitable for first-time dog owners? Rather only to a limited extent. A very committed and well-informed first-time dog owner can get on well with this breed with professional support. In general, however, the Dutch Shepherd is more suitable for experienced or very active people because it needs a lot of activity, consistent training and mental exercise. Its energy, alertness and independence should not be underestimated. Family dog or not? Yes, in principle the Dutch Shepherd can be a good family dog, but not in every family. They are best suited to active households that can offer them time, structure, exercise and tasks. With good exercise and appropriate training, he is often loyal, affectionate and reliable. Without activity and clear leadership, however, he is quickly underchallenged.

Small Poodle History of the Poodle The poodle is one of the old European dog breeds and was originally used as a water dog. It was strongly influenced and further developed in France in particular, which is why France is now considered the country of origin. Over time, the larger working dog developed into different size variants, including the small poodle. Later, the poodle became known primarily as an intelligent companion, show and family dog. Appearance Body shape: The Small Poodle has a harmonious, elegant and well-proportioned build. It appears neither clumsy nor fragile, but lively, proud and agile. Typical are the rather square overall impression, the fine but not weak bone structure and a springy, light movement. Coat: The coat is one of the most striking characteristics of the breed. It is dense, fine and strongly curled or formed in cords. The Small Poodle usually sheds very little, but needs regular and careful grooming. Nature/character The Small Poodle is considered to be very intelligent, attentive, playful and people-oriented. They learn quickly, enjoy working with their people and are often extremely adaptable. Many small poodles are friendly, alert and sensitive without being overly nervous. Thanks to their intelligence and keen powers of observation, they often react very clearly to the mood and everyday life of their caregivers. Grooming Grooming is more complex than many people initially think. The coat must be regularly brushed, combed and cut or clipped at sensible intervals so that it does not become matted. Ears, claws, teeth and eyes should also be checked regularly. Because the coat sheds so little, loose wool often gets caught in the coat and must be actively removed. Health The small poodle is generally considered to be a fairly robust and long-lived variety. Nevertheless, attention should be paid to responsible breeding. Depending on the line, patella problems, eye diseases, dental problems or hereditary diseases can play a role. Regular veterinary checks, good weight management and a reputable breeding base are important. Training The small poodle is generally very easy to train. It learns quickly, is attentive and often wants to work closely with its owner. It responds best to friendly, clear and consistent training. Harsh methods are unsuitable because many Poodles react sensitively. With early socialization, variety and meaningful mental activity, the small poodle usually develops into a very pleasant companion. What are the special features of this breed? What is special about this breed is the combination of intelligence, elegance and a great love of learning. The small poodle is usually much more than just a pretty companion dog. They are often very attentive, athletic and versatile, for example in everyday life, dog sports or mental tasks. They also have a special coat that sheds very little but requires a lot of grooming. Suitable for first-time dog owners? Yes, the small poodle is often very suitable for first-time dog owners. They are usually smart, cooperative and easy to train. The important thing is not to underestimate them. Even a small to medium-sized poodle needs training, activity and regular grooming. If you are prepared to do this, you will often find a very pleasant beginner's dog. Family dog or not? Yes, the small poodle is generally a very good family dog. They are usually friendly, playful and closely bonded to their humans. They generally feel very comfortable in a family with loving consistency, sufficient activity and respectful treatment. Due to its adaptability, it often suits both active families and quieter households.

The Labradoodle History of the Scottish Terrier The Labradoodle originated in Australia from the deliberate mating of Labrador Retrievers and Poodles. The aim was to create an intelligent, friendly companion dog that was as allergy-friendly as possible. This later developed into the Australian Labradoodle, for which breeding associations now work with their own pedigrees, health programmes and standards. At the same time, these associations themselves emphasise that the Australian Labradoodle is still seen as a breed in development and is not recognised by the FCI or AKC. Appearance Body type: The Labradoodle does not have a globally standardised build, as it is not an FCI-recognised breed with a binding standard. Depending on the line, it may look more like a retriever, a poodle, or a mix of both. Many Labradoodles are medium to large in size, athletic, well-proportioned and quite agile. In the case of the Australian Labradoodle, breeding focuses specifically on achieving as balanced and family-friendly an appearance as possible. Coat: The coat is one of the most striking features. It can be soft, fleece-like, wavy or curly. Breeders often advertise minimal shedding, but coat texture and hair can vary significantly depending on the mating. Particularly with non-standardised Labradoodles, the coat is less predictable than with recognised breeds. Nature/character Labradoodles are often considered to be friendly, people orientated, smart and eager to learn. Many are described as outgoing, social and approachable. However, their temperament is not quite as predictable as that of a long-established breed, as temperament and characteristics can vary depending on the parents and breeding line. In the Australian Labradoodle in particular, the aim is to produce a social, trainable dog that is suitable for everyday use. Grooming Grooming depends heavily on the coat type. Wavy and curly Labradoodles in particular need regular brushing and combing to prevent the coat from matting. Many dogs also need to be professionally cut or trimmed. Ears, claws, teeth and eyes should also be checked regularly. The often dense, soft coat in particular can require more care than many people initially expect. Health The health situation depends heavily on the quality of the breeding. Reputable associations for the Australian Labradoodle require health examinations such as hip and elbow assessments, DNA profiles and other tests for breeding animals. Nevertheless, depending on the line and parent animals, problems can occur that are also known from Labradors or Poodles, such as joint problems, eye diseases or other hereditary issues. Because the Labradoodle is not a uniformly regulated FCI breed standard, careful selection of the breed is particularly important. Education Labradoodles are often easy to train because they are smart, people-orientated and eager to learn. They benefit from friendly, clear and consistent leadership. Early socialisation, basic signals suitable for everyday use and sufficient mental and physical activity are important. Underchallenge can quickly lead to undesirable behaviour in intelligent, active dogs.  What are the special features of this breed? The most special feature is that although the Labradoodle is very well known, it is not an FCI-recognised breed with a uniform worldwide standard. This means that size, coat, temperament and health predictability can vary more than with established breeds. Although there are organised breeding associations with standards and health rules for the Australian Labradoodle, the population is still described as a breed in development. It is precisely this mixture of popularity, variability and partially controlled further development that makes the Labradoodle special. Suitable for first-time dog owners? Yes, a Labradoodle can often be suitable for first-time dog owners if it comes from responsible breeding and its needs are taken seriously. Many Labradoodles are friendly, co-operative and suitable for everyday life. However, it should not be underestimated that energy levels, coat care and character can vary significantly depending on the line. This is why it is particularly important to choose a reputable breeder. Family dog or not? Yes, the Labradoodle is very often kept as a family dog. Many representatives are friendly, social and very people orientated. They are particularly well suited to families who have time for training, activity and grooming. However, because the Labradoodle is not a standardised FCI breed, it is worth taking a particularly close look at the lineage, parents and breeding.

The Lhasa ApsoHistory of the Scottish TerrierThe Lhasa Apso originates from Tibet and was kept there for many centuries as a watchful companion and temple dog. Especially in monasteries and wealthy households, it was regarded as a valued small guard dog. The FCI lists Tibet as the country of origin and Great Britain as the breed's patron country.AppearanceBody shape: The Lhasa Apso is a small, well-balanced and robust dog. Despite its small size, it does not appear dainty, but rather compact, confident and resilient. Its expression is alert and self-assured.Coat: The coat is one of the breed’s most striking features. It is long, heavy and falls straight down. It should be neither silky nor woolly. The thick fur on the head, beard and around the eyes is part of the Lhasa Apso’s typical appearance.Nature/characterThe Lhasa Apso is considered cheerful, self-confident, attentive and quite independent. It is often reserved or somewhat aloof towards strangers, but is usually close to the people it loves. Its mixture of small size and surprisingly alert, serious character is typical.GroomingGrooming is time-consuming and requires regularity. The long coat should be brushed and combed thoroughly to prevent matting. Eyes, ears, paws, claws and teeth should also be checked regularly. Consistent grooming is very important in everyday life, especially for such a long-haired little dog. HealthThe Lhasa Apso is generally regarded as a fairly robust and long-lived small breed. Nevertheless, care should be taken to ensure responsible breeding. Depending on the line, eye problems, skin issues, dental problems or patella problems can play a role. Regular veterinary checks, good weight management and a reputable breeding base are important. EducationTraining should be friendly, clear and consistent. The Lhasa Apso is intelligent, but often also wilful and not simply eager to please. It therefore needs early socialisation, reliable rules and calm leadership. Harsh methods do not suit this self-confident, often sensitive breed. What are the special features of this breed?What is special about this breed is the combination of its small body, large presence and ancient monastery dog history. The Lhasa Apso is not a typical submissive small dog, but often a self-confident, alert and quite independent companion. In addition, its distinctive, long coat makes it unmistakable.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Conditional. A calm, consistent and well-informed first-time dog owner can get on well with a Lhasa Apso. However, the breed is not completely uncomplicated because it can be independent, vigilant and sometimes stubborn. Anyone who underestimates small dogs simply because of their size will not always get on easily with a Lhasa Apso.Family dog or not?Yes, in principle the Lhasa Apso can be a good family dog. It is particularly suited to quiet, respectful households where its independence is taken seriously. It often gets on well with older, understanding children. It is less at home in very noisy or hectic families. This classification is a technical deduction from the breed's character, size and typical behaviour.

The Miniature SchnauzerHistory of the Scottish TerrierThe Miniature Schnauzer originated around the turn of the century in the Frankfurt am Main area and was initially known as the rough-haired Miniature Pinscher. The aim was to create a small dog with the character and appearance of the Schnauzer, without dwarf-like exaggerations.AppearanceThe Miniature Schnauzer is a small, strong, stocky rather than slender, rough-coated dog. It is said to be the miniature version of the Schnauzer and appears alert, robust and compact. Body shape: Squarely built, with the height at the withers roughly corresponding to the body length; strong, compact and well proportioned.Coat: Wiry, dense and weatherproof, with a distinctive beard and bushy brows. Nature/characterThe Miniature Schnauzer is considered to be smart, lively, alert and fearless. The FCI describes it analogously with the characteristics of the Schnauzer in a small form: benign, playful, spirited and alert.GroomingThe coat needs regular brushing and, in this breed, usually also professional trimming to maintain the typical wiry structure. The beard, eyebrows and legs require additional grooming because dirt easily accumulates there. HealthThe FCI standard requires functionally and clinically healthy breeding animals. The Miniature Schnauzer is generally considered to be a fairly robust small dog, but responsible breeding is important as always. The standard itself does not give a detailed list of typical breed diseases.EducationThe Miniature Schnauzer is eager to learn and attentive, but needs clear, friendly consistency. Because of its alertness and self-confident terrier temperament, you should work on socialisation, leash training and controlled alert behaviour at an early age.What are the special features of this breed?His distinctive Schnauzer head with beard and brows, wiry coat and mixture of small size and great self-confidence are what make him special. He is not a fragile lap dog, but an alert, robust and rather present companion dog.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Yes, often well suited. The Miniature Schnauzer can be very suitable for motivated beginners because it is manageable, intelligent and suitable for everyday use. However, you should be prepared to deal with its alertness, temperament and grooming requirements.Family dog or not?Yes, in many cases a good family dog. He is affectionate, lively and robust enough for an active everyday life, as long as he is treated with respect and kept busy in a meaningful way. They usually do well in families with clear rules and regular grooming.

The Afghan HoundHistory of the Afghan SighthoundVery old sighthound breed from Afghanistan, originally used for hunting (sight hunters) in mountainous/rough regions; in Europe the Afghan Hound became particularly well known and further established in the early 20th century.AppearanceBody shape: large, elegant, tall, strong and athletic with an "aristocratic" expression; the ring-shaped curved tail is also typical.Coatvery long and fine, with a distinctive "hairstyle" (ears/legs very hairy), plus often a shorter "saddle" on the back.Temperament/characterDistant and dignified towards strangers, loyal to the family, sensitive and independent ("not always wanting to please").GroomingVery high. Regular (often daily) brushing/de-matting and frequent bathing are realistic, otherwise the fine hair will quickly become matted. Plus: ear care (long ears increase the risk of moisture/dirt).HealthFrequently mentioned topics: Hip dysplasia, cataract/eye problems, hypothyroidism. Typical for sighthounds: More sensitive to anesthesia (low body fat percentage) and increased risk of bloat/gastric torsion due to deep chest.TrainingConsistent, calm leadership and positive reinforcement are important; recall/leash walking can be challenging due to hunting instinct/independence (safety: fenced areas, drag line).Special features of the breedExtremely striking, long silky coat (grooming is the "dealbreaker" no. 1). Sprinter at heart: needs safe opportunities to race (e.g. sighthound sport/lure coursing), otherwise he quickly becomes unbalanced. Sensitive + independent: not the "always-listening" dog.Suitable for first-time dog ownersRather limited. If you have the time/desire for a lot of grooming and approach training in a patient, structured and sighthound-friendly way, it can work - but overall the breed is often recommended for more experienced owners.Family dog or not?Yes, but with restrictions: Often very good with their own family, yet rather sensitive and not "robust". Depending on the dog/family routine, it can be more difficult with (small, noisy) children; calm handling and places to retreat to are important.

Profile Bolonka ZwetnaHistory of the Bolonka ZwetnaThe Bolonka Zwetna is a small companion dog from Russia. According to the VDH, the first standard was created and confirmed in the 1960s, after which the breed continued to develop as a colored lapdog type.AppearanceBody shape: You will get a small, compact dog that looks rather square and should be sturdily built despite its miniature size. Coat: The long coat falls in waves or curls and is the most striking feature of the breed.Nature and characterMany Bolonkas are cheerful, affectionate and very people-oriented. They often don't like to be left alone, but they like to be everywhere in everyday life.GroomingYou should brush and comb the coat regularly to prevent it from matting, especially on the ears, armpits, belly and "pants". A regular grooming routine is more important than infrequent "big jobs".HealthAs a small breed, the Bolonka is often considered to be quite robust, but breed-typical issues such as patellar problems (patella) and tartar in small dogs are something you should keep an eye on (preventive breeding and dental care help).TrainingThey usually do well with friendly consistency and reward training. Because Bolonkas are very people-oriented, bonding often works easily, but early training for staying alone and everyday calmness is important.What special features does this breed haveThe Bolonka is a typical companion dog: small, likes to be close to its body and is often very focused on its owner. This makes it a great everyday partner, but can lead to problems when left alone without training.Suitable for first-time dog owners?Often yes, if you allow time for closeness, grooming and consistent basic training. It is particularly important that you clearly establish topics such as staying alone, leash training and rules in the household right from the start.Family dog or not?As a family dog, it can be a good fit if children are calm and considerate with a small dog. In very wild households, management is important so that the dog is not overwhelmed.

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Its history The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog originates from Switzerland and is one of the old farm and working dogs of the Alpine region. It was formerly used as a guard dog, draught dog and herding dog. For a long time, the breed was considered to have almost disappeared until it was specifically promoted again at the beginning of the 20th century. Today, it is mainly kept as a family, guard and companion dog. Appearance Body shape: Strong, large, muscular and harmoniously built. The body is slightly longer than high, with a broad chest, strong back and powerful limbs. Despite its mass, it does not appear clumsy, but expressive and resilient. Coat: The coat is dense, weatherproof and easy to care for. Typical is the tricolored pattern with black base color, rust-red markings on the cheeks, above the eyes, on the chest and legs as well as white markings on the head, chest, paws and tip of the tail. Temperament/character The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is considered to be self-confident, calm, attentive and people-oriented. He is very loyal to his family and usually shows a balanced, friendly nature. He is often alert and reserved towards strangers, without unnecessary aggression. He has a mind of his own, but is reliable and loyal when well bonded. Grooming Grooming is generally uncomplicated. Regular brushing is usually sufficient, but more frequent brushing is recommended during the shedding season. Ears, claws and teeth should be checked and groomed. Because of its size, care should also be taken to ensure that it has a suitable weight and is exercised in a way that is easy on the joints. Health Like many large dog breeds, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog can also be prone to joint problems such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Gastric torsion is also an important issue, which is why feeding and exercise should be well coordinated. Reputable breeding, controlled growth at a young age and a healthy body weight are particularly important. Training Training should be calm, clear and consistent. Harsh methods are unsuitable, as the breed can react sensitively to unfair treatment. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog learns well, but needs a close bond, patience and confident leadership. Early socialization is important so that it reacts calmly and confidently to environmental stimuli. What are the special features of this breed? This breed has a lot of strength, size and alertness. A Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is not a dog to be kept on the side. It needs plenty of space, a close family bond and people who can lead it reliably. Its mixture of calmness and protective instinct is also typical. Many representatives of the breed mature rather late and appear youthful for a long time. Due to their size, they can be very physically present in everyday life, which should not be underestimated. Suitable for first-time dog owners? Conditionally. For motivated and well-informed first-time dog owners, the breed may be possible, but it is not the easiest choice. Their size, strength, independence and protectiveness require good, consistent training and a great sense of responsibility. If you have little dog experience, you should prepare yourself intensively and ideally work with a dog school or trainer. Family dog or not? Yes, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is generally a good family dog. He is affectionate, loyal and usually very close to his caregivers. They can be friendly and patient with children. Because of its size and strength, however, it should always be handled under supervision. It is particularly suitable for families who have enough space, time and understanding for a large, hard-working and alert dog.