Appenzeller Sennenhund
Energetic Fearless Great with kids Herding livestock, pulling carts, and guarding the farm High energy dog Lively Reliable Self-assured Sheds a lot

Appenzeller Sennenhund

Height 20 - 22 in (51 - 56 cm)
Weight 48 - 55 lbs (22 - 25 kg)
Lifespan 12 – 14 years
Origin Unknown

Is a Appenzeller Sennenhund Right For You?

Answer these quick questions to find out:


Do you need a dog that’s comfortable living in an apartment?

Will the dog need to thrive in small living spaces?

Are you looking for a dog suited for urban life?

Are you okay with a dog that sheds heavily?

Are you okay with a dog that sheds heavily?

Breed Characteristics

The consensus from the sources suggests that Appenzeller Sennenhunds require a significant amount of exercise, ranging from at least an hour to a couple of hours per day, along with mental stimulation. While some sources mention a minimum of 30 minutes to 1 hour, the majority emphasize the need for vigorous exercise and engagement to meet their physical and mental needs.

How much exercise does Appenzeller Sennenhund need?

Low High
The majority of sources suggest that the Appenzeller Sennenhund requires minimal grooming, with weekly brushing being sufficient. While some sources mention occasional more frequent brushing during shedding seasons, overall the consensus is that grooming needs are low for this breed.

How much grooming does Appenzeller Sennenhund need?

Low High
Appenzeller Sennenhunds are described as quick learners, intelligent, loyal, and easily motivated. They excel in various activities and require early training and socialization. While they need space to run and play, their willingness to learn and form strong attachments with their families make them easier to train with firm, respectful, and consistent methods.

Is Appenzeller Sennenhund easy to train?

Low High
Based on the consensus from multiple sources highlighting the Appenzeller Sennenhund as highly intelligent, quick learners, responsive to training, able to learn complex tasks, and adaptable to new challenges. They are described as astute, bright, and possessing amazing perceptive faculties, making them versatile working dogs.

How intelligent is Appenzeller Sennenhund?

Low High
Based on multiple sources indicating that the Appenzeller Sennenhund is a very vocal breed that barks at everything, often loudly and as part of their nature. Owners and descriptions consistently mention their tendency to bark a lot, making it highly likely that this breed barks frequently.

Does Appenzeller Sennenhund bark a lot?

Low High
The consensus from the sources indicates that while the Appenzeller Sennenhund can be stubborn and independent, they are not the most stubborn breed and can be eager to please. They require firm but respectful and consistent training methods.

Is Appenzeller Sennenhund stubborn or independent?

Low High
The consensus from the sources indicates that the Appenzeller Sennenhund requires at least an hour of exercise daily, with some sources suggesting even more. This breed is described as active, needing mental stimulation, and benefiting from playtime and outdoor activities. Therefore, a high rating of 5 is appropriate.

How much playtime does a Appenzeller Sennenhund need daily?

Low High
The consensus from the sources indicates that while an Appenzeller Sennenhund can live in a flat or apartment, they require ample exercise and outdoor space to run and play. Regular walks and activities are essential for their well-being, making it challenging for them to stay indoors with limited walks.

Can Appenzeller Sennenhund stay indoors with limited walks?

Low High
Based on the consensus from multiple sources highlighting the breed's strong protective instincts, territorial behavior, and loyalty to their families.

Is Appenzeller Sennenhund protective or territorial?

Low High
The consensus from multiple sources indicates that the Appenzeller Sennenhund is affectionate with family members, forms strong bonds, seeks attention, and is generally a great companion for children. The breed's friendly and loyal nature towards family members was consistently highlighted, leading to a high rating of 5.

Is Appenzeller Sennenhund affectionate with family?

Low High

Health Wellness

Is Appenzeller Sennenhund prone to allergies?

The Appenzeller Sennenhund breed is generally healthy with a life expectancy of 13 to 15 years, and some individuals can live even longer. While they are not hypoallergenic and can be prone to allergies, they are known to have a predictable, non-shedding coat that produces less dander, a common allergen in pets. Common health conditions for Appenzeller Sennenhunds include allergies, flea-related issues, anemia, and arthritis. Allergies in dogs can present through various symptoms such as skin problems, gastrointestinal issues, and respiratory distress. It is important for potential owners to be aware of these health concerns and take necessary precautions.


Is Appenzeller Sennenhund a hypoallergenic breed?

The Appenzeller Sennenhund is not a hypoallergenic breed, as they do not have characteristics that make them less allergenic for people with dog allergies. They are described as lively, intelligent, and loyal Swiss mountain dogs that were originally used for cattle herding. This medium-sized working breed is known for its ability to think quickly and is considered a healthy breed with a life expectancy of 13 to 15 years. While there are no 100% hypoallergenic dogs, the Appenzeller Sennenhund is not one of the breeds that are less allergenic.


What are common health issues in Appenzeller Sennenhund?

Key points extracted from the sources include: - The Appenzeller Sennenhund is generally a healthy and long-lived breed with no known hereditary health issues. - Common health concerns for this breed may include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, certain eye diseases, and urinary tract infections. - Other potential health issues mentioned are patellar luxation, deafness, gastric torsion, disk disease, colitis, cataracts, epilepsy, anesthesia sensitivity/allergy, and internal parasites. - The breed's life expectancy is typically 13 to 15 years, but some Appenzellers can live well beyond that age. - Appenzellers are described as hardy and healthy dogs, with no known major health issues. In summary, the Appenzeller Sennenhund is a generally healthy and long-lived breed with no known hereditary health issues. Common health concerns may include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, certain eye diseases, and urinary tract infections. Other potential health issues mentioned are patellar luxation, deafness, gastric torsion, disk disease, colitis, cataracts, epilepsy, anesthesia sensitivity/allergy, and internal parasites. Despite these concerns, the breed is described as hardy and healthy, with a typical life expectancy of 13 to 15 years, though some individuals can live well beyond that age.


How often should a Appenzeller Sennenhund visit the vet?

Appenzeller Sennenhunds are a healthy breed with few hereditary health issues, but they may experience common age-related conditions like arthritis. It is recommended to visit the vet at least once a year for an annual check-up. Puppies should be seen more frequently, typically every three to four weeks until they are at least 16 weeks old. For older dogs aged 10 and above, bi-annual visits for blood work and X-rays may be beneficial. Overall, regular vet visits are essential to monitor the health and well-being of Appenzeller Sennenhunds, with annual check-ups being the minimum requirement for preventative care.


What is the average vet bill for a Appenzeller Sennenhund?

The average annual vet bill for an Appenzeller Sennenhund (Mountain Dog) typically ranges from $700 to $2,000, covering expenses such as wellness check-ups, dental care, lab tests, and vaccines. Routine veterinary expenses for this breed, including vaccinations, check-ups, and preventatives, can amount to $200 to $500 per year. Emergency vet visits for an Appenzeller Sennenhund may cost between $850 and $1,500 per visit. The cost of an initial consultation for medical conditions can fall between $195 and $250. Surgical vet visits for this breed are reported to cost dog owners around $458 annually, while routine vet exams are around $242 per year. Overall, pet owners should budget for annual veterinary expenses ranging from $700 to $2,000 for an Appenzeller Sennenhund.


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