This dog belongs to the scenthound group, coming from its origins in Switzerland. Because of their low legs, they could run fast and root out prey. Characterized by a melodic voice and determination to find its game, the Swiss Hound also boasted attractive coat colors. It is an excellent tracker. This breed was recognized by the Schweizer Niederlaufhund Club, which was first founded in 1905.
The Swiss Hound grows to a height of between 13 and 17 inches tall and 36 to 42 inches long. It weighs between 18 and 33 pounds. There are four varieties of this breed, distinguishable only by color: Small Bernese Hound, which is black and white with tan over the eyes, Small Jura Hound with a smooth black coat and tan markings on the eyes, Small Lucerne Hound, with a white coat and speckles of gray or black, and the Small Schwyz Hound, featuring a white coat with yellow, red or orange patches. This dog is well-built, moderately long, and has a friendly expression, low tail, slender head, long muzzle and soft undercoat.
Personality
Because it's a hunting dog at heart, the Swiss Hound loves to be set free to roam over difficult terrain, guided by his excellent sense of smell. This dog is friendly, reliable and strong, making for an ideal companion. These dogs can be very calm yet they can get quite lively depending on how much exercise they get. This breed needs to be taught early on who's boss. They can be housebroken fairly easily. They're great with kids and therefore make an ideal family pet, provided you have a large home with large backyard. It is rare to see this breed get aggressive; therefore, you can always rely on an even-keeled temperament.
Breed Characteristics
| Life Span: | 12 - 14 years |
| Nicknames: | Schweizerischer Niederlaufhund, Small Bernese Hound, Berner Niederlaufhund, Small Jura Hound, Jura Niederlaufhund, Small Lucerne Hound, Luzerner Niederlaufhund, Small Schwyz Hound, Schwyzer Niederlaufhund, Smaller Bernese Hound, Bernese Swiss Hound |
Swiss Hound Build Information
The Swiss Hound grows to a height of between 13 and 17 inches tall and 36 to 42 inches long. It weighs between 18 and 33 pounds. There are four varieties of this breed, distinguishable only by color: Small Bernese Hound, which is black and white with tan over the eyes, Small Jura Hound with a smooth black coat and tan markings on the eyes, Small Lucerne Hound, with a white coat and speckles of gray or black, and the Small Schwyz Hound, featuring a white coat with yellow, red or orange patches. This dog is well-built, moderately long, and has a friendly expression, low tail, slender head, long muzzle and soft undercoat.
| Size: | Medium |
Behaviour and Personality
Because it's a hunting dog at heart, the Swiss Hound loves to be set free to roam over difficult terrain, guided by his excellent sense of smell. This dog is friendly, reliable and strong, making for an ideal companion. These dogs can be very calm yet they can get quite lively depending on how much exercise they get. This breed needs to be taught early on who's boss. They can be housebroken fairly easily. They're great with kids and therefore make an ideal family pet, provided you have a large home with large backyard. It is rare to see this breed get aggressive; therefore, you can always rely on an even-keeled temperament.
| Activity Level: | Very active |
| Affection Level: | Affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Very friendly |
Appearance
Regular grooming is necessary to ensure your dog stays clean and well maintained. This includes daily brushing, especially in shedding season, as well as nail clipping and cleaning of the ears. Bathe when needed so as not to strip the skin of essential oils. This can lead to itchy, dry skin.
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming: | Medium maintenance |
Swiss Hound Common Health Conditions
There are no outstanding health problems documented for this breed.
Swiss Hound Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
This rural dog loves to hunt. It does best when living on a farm or large homestead with lots of grass, trees and dirt. This dog won't do well living in an apartment in the city. If you do live in a suburban area, make sure your yard is fenced in. The Swiss Hound has many nicknames, including Schweizerischer Niederlaufhund, Small Bernese Hound, Berner Niederlaufhund, Small Jura Hound, Jura Niederlaufhund, Small Lucerne Hound, Luzerner Niederlaufhund, Small Schwyz Hound, Schwyzer Niederlaufhund, Smaller Bernese and Bernese Swiss Hound. The Swiss Hound has a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years.
| Training: | Moderately easy |