Pyrenean Mastiff vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison

Pyrenean Mastiff vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed ComparisonPyrenean Mastiff is originated from Spain but Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is originated from Switzerland. Pyrenean Mastiff may grow 10 cm / 4 inches higher than Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. Pyrenean Mastiff may weigh 30 kg / 67 pounds more than Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. Both Pyrenean Mastiff and Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has almost same life span. Both Pyrenean Mastiff and Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has almost same litter size. Pyrenean Mastiff requires Low maintenance. But Greater Swiss Mountain Dog requires Moderate maintenance

History

pyrenean mastiff - historyThe Pyrenean Mastiff originates from Spain, descending from ancient livestock guardian-type dogs.

They have always been used as guardians, looking out for livestock and warding off predators.

When you do research you find that there is little information on the exact origins of the dog. It was only in recent years that the dog was taken out of its native region and sent to the USA, but it isn’t recognized by the AKC.

The dog was however recognized by the FCI in 1982.

greater swiss mountain dog - historyHailing from Switzerland, and one of its oldest dog breeds, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has a dubious history in that there are a number of theories as to its origin. He is closely related to the Bernese Mountain Dog, Saint Bernard and Rottweiler.

Of all the theories, the one that says he is descended from large, mastiff-like dogs is a popular one. He used to be a herding- and guard dog, but also was used to pull carts of farm produce.

It was in the 1900s that the dog’s numbers started dwindling. In 1908, canine researcher, Albert Heim recognized the dogs as being large members of the Sennenhund type, a family of four breeds that includes the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog.

He wanted to see the dogs recognized as a separate breed and the Swiss Kennel Club listed the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog in 1909.

In 1968 they were brought to the United States and a club for them was formed. The dog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1995 with the dog being recognized as a member of the Working group.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Working dog
Origin:
Spain
Switzerland
Height Male:
75 - 82 cm
29 - 33 inches
65 - 72 cm
25 - 29 inches
Height Female:
75 - 82 cm
29 - 33 inches
60 - 70 cm
23 - 28 inches
Weight Male:
70 - 100 kg
154 - 221 pounds
60 - 70 kg
132 - 155 pounds
Weight Female:
70 - 100 kg
154 - 221 pounds
55 - 70 kg
121 - 155 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 14 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 12
5 - 10
Size:
Giant dog
Large dog
Other Names:
None
GSMD, Swissy, Sennenhund
Colors Available:
tan, White with large markings of reddish brown, grey or black.
Black, white and rust
Coat:
Longish, thick double coat
Short and straight to medium length, coarse and wavy
Shedding:
Moderate, Constant
Moderate, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Description

pyrenean mastiff puppy - descriptionThis is a beautiful big dog, strong and muscular. He stands at between 75 and 82cm in height and weighs between 70 and 100kg, males and females.

He has a thick double coat which is fairly long and which also sheds regularly. The coat is essentially white in color with large markings of reddish brown, tan, grey or black.

The Pyrenean Mastiff has a large head with a black nose, small, dark eyes, floppy, medium sized ears and a long tail with lush hair growth.

Temperament:

Large he may be, but the Pyrenean Mastiff is a docile dog that gets on well with children as well as with other pets. He is intelligent but also strong willed and independent, making him a little bit difficult to handle if he chooses to ignore your commands.

Training and socialization will be required if you want him to be obedient and well mannered. He can do well with you as a novice pet owner, so long as you are firm, consistent, kind, patient and fair in your handling of the Pyrenean Mastiff.

Even with socialization, he tends to be wary around strangers and becomes quite protective around his human family.

He is a calm dog that doesn’t require a whole lot of exercise, but he isn’t suited to life on a small property in the city as he needs a lot of space to feel content and at ease.

greater swiss mountain dog puppy - descriptionSwissies, as they are often referred to as, are large, robust dogs, standing at 65–72cm and weighing anything between 50 – 70kg, with the females being slightly smaller and weighing a little less.

He has big, rounded paws, medium length floppy ears, a broad chest and a long tail. This is a heavy-boned dog, strong while still being agile.

His dense, double coat is black, white and tan or rust, with black on top of the dog's back, ears, tail and legs. There are two rust dots above each eye. The coat can be short and straight to medium length, coarse and wavy. The dog sheds throughout the year with a major shedding a couple of times a year.

Temperament:

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a sociable canine, thriving on being part of a loving human family. While he used to be a working farm dog, today he is essentially a family pet, though he loves to still be busy.

He is generally friendly with strangers, but just like with all other dog breeds, he will need to be trained and socialized to turn him into an even-tempered, obedient dog, capable of getting on well with children and pets in the the home.

Characteristics

pyrenean mastiff dog - characteristicsThese beautiful dogs have always been extraordinary guarding dogs, but he has some other excellent characteristics that make him such a great companion.

He is a loyal, loving dog and easy to train.

You just have to think twice before you take such a large dog into your home, as he doesn’t like to be cooped up in small spaces. He will also eat a lot too.

You want to know that you can provide the Pyrenean Mastiff with all these things. If you have the means to keep such a large pet, then he will make you a splendid canine companion.

greater swiss mountain dog dog - characteristicsThe Swissy is an easy going dog and adapts easily into his human family’s lifestyle. He is big, but agile dog known for his gentle temperament.

While he loves the outdoors, he is a social dog and loves nothing more than coming indoors and being close to his human family.

He loves his family and won’t do well if left outside for days without human companionship. Treat him well and you’ll be rewarded with a loyal, loving 4-legged family member.

Health Problems

pyrenean mastiff puppies - health problemsThis is a fairly healthy dog breed, particularly when you consider what a big dog he is. There are always some health concerns to watch for so that you can take steps to get your pet well again.

Dental Disease:

There is tartar build-up on the teeth and this can lead to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Rotting teeth can cause pain, but more worrisome they can cause damage to the heart and kidneys as well as the dog's joints. The vet or professional pet groomers can keep your pet’s teeth clean. They can advise you on how to take care of your large pet’s teeth.

Bacterial and Viral Infections:

Diseases such as rabies and parvo can be prevented by means of vaccine.

Obesity:

You can’t afford for a big dog like this to become obese. It’s a serious disease and can put pressure on your dog’s joints and also cause back pain and digestive disorders.

Parasites:

Your dog can be infected with all kinds of worms and bugs such as ticks d and fleas as well as mites. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you. Your vet can talk about preventive medication.

Bloat:

Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus, commonly referred to as bloat often occurs in dogs with deep chests.

The stomach twists and fills with gas,and blood to the stomach is cut off. Left unattended to, your dog can die, sometimes within half an hour. His stomach is hard and swollen, requiring immediate veterinary attention.

greater swiss mountain dog puppies - health problemsThe GSMD or Sennenhund, as his name is shortened to, is a fairly healthy dog breed, with very few health issues.

He has an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years, and although not likely, he can suffer from minor problems such as gastric torsion as well as female urinary incontinence. If your female dog is dribbling urine in her sleep, there are a number of reasons that can be causing it - bladder infections, a medical condition or a weakened bladder with spayed female dogs.

It is certainly time to get your pet to the vet who will recommend a urinalysis.

Caring The Pet

Spay or Neuter:

pyrenean mastiff dogs - caringHave your pet spayed or neutered if you don’t want puppies. Spaying or neutering also decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers.

Diet:

Nothing but a top quality diet is good enough for your pet. Commercially manufactured dog foods are a convenient means to feed your pet, and there are some excellent brands.

Look out for the ones for extra large dogs and avoid the ones with low quality ingredients. The dry kibble you give your big pet can be made more tasty when you add some homemade food to it about twice a week.

Dogs thrive on simplicity, so boiled chicken, sweet potatoes, brown rice or pasta, carrots and spinach will be wonderful for him when you chop the food up and add it into the dry kibble. Its such a tasty, wholesome treat for your pet.

Some raw meat added in occasionally will contribute to your pet’s heath. Make sure he is never without a constant supply of fresh, cool water.

Grooming:

Brush his coat at least twice a week. Check inside his ears for redness which could indicate an ear infection.

He’s an intelligent pet with lots of energy, so you will need to keep his mind and body active by ensuring he enjoys walks every day. He isn’t a dog that requires running with you on your jogs or cycles.

Diet:

greater swiss mountain dog dogs - caringThe Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a robust dog and thrives on a diet of kibble to raw meat to some cooked home-made food such as chicken, brown rice and vegetables.

A serious issue with the GSMD is overfeeding, resulting in uncomfortable digestive problems and of course, obesity.

Exercise:

Your GSMD isn’t a dog that is going to require a lot of exercise like some of the other dog breeds there are, but still his working career of the past requires that he still be taken on daily walks, enjoys ball- and rope games and to go swimming.

Grooming:

Brush your dogs coat at least twice a week to remove loose hears. Other grooming aspects include cleaning the ears to avoid infection, clipping his nails and brushing his teeth at least twice a week.

If you’re not sure how to do all these things, there are useful accessories for dogs that allow you to do all this grooming on your own. Your vet can also show you how as these are all things that will require ongoing attention.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Bernese Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  2. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Newfoundland Dog - Breed Comparison
  3. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Anatolian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  4. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Leonberger - Breed Comparison
  5. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Alaunt - Breed Comparison
  6. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Alangu Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  7. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Bisben - Breed Comparison
  8. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Moscow Watchdog - Breed Comparison
  9. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Kars Dog - Breed Comparison
  10. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Moscow Water Dog - Breed Comparison
  11. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Ciobanesc de Bucovina - Breed Comparison
  12. Spanish Mastiff vs Pyrenean Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  13. St. Bernard vs Pyrenean Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  14. Neapolitan Mastiff vs Pyrenean Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  15. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Great Dane - Breed Comparison
  16. Pyrenean Mastiff vs English Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  17. Pyrenean Mastiff vs American Mastiff - Breed Comparison
  18. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Bully Kutta - Breed Comparison
  19. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Irish Wolfhound - Breed Comparison
  20. Samoyed vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  21. Presa Canario vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Labrador Husky vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  23. Mackenzie River Husky vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  24. Pyredoodle vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  25. Lurcher vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  26. Maremma Sheepdog vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  27. Sarplaninac vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  28. Himalayan Mastiff vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  29. Mountain View Cur vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  30. Native American Indian Dog vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  31. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  32. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  33. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  34. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  35. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  36. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Alaskan Malamute - Breed Comparison
  37. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Bullmastiff - Breed Comparison
  38. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Great Pyrenees - Breed Comparison
  39. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Boerboel - Breed Comparison
  40. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  41. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Argentine Dogo - Breed Comparison
  42. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Giant Schnauzer - Breed Comparison
  43. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  44. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Belgian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds