The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is one of four Swiss mountain dog breeds – three of which are currently recognized by the AKC. Although the Entle is the smallest of the four, they have a ton of personality packed into their compact, medium-sized frames! Originally used for herding, guarding and possibly some carting, this is a multi-talented animal. The breed is loyal, very physical and tough, and quite capable of all manner of outdoor sports and activities. These tricolor dogs need to spend plenty of time with their families, however. Although not overly clingy or demanding, they do not do well when thrown outside without much human contact.
Entlebuchers make good watchdogs as they are suspicious of strangers and quick to sound a loud alarm when someone comes to the door (although usually quiet otherwise). Some can be fairly territorial – a trait which should never be left unchecked. As with all dogs, they need to be given plenty of ongoing socialization. This is not because they are prone to becoming fearful, but because they need to experience new people and situations to grow into their naturally confident demeanors. When it comes to their owners, they are unwaveringly loyal and devoted.
For the most part, Entles get along well with children although they may need to be taught to play gentle. They are naturally active and enthusiastic in all that they do, which can knock over or otherwise hurt a small child. In fact, they are known for flinging themselves at livestock in order to move the larger animals, so body slams are often par for the course. Additionally, they are surprisingly strong. It can be done, but the parents of a young child would be advised that extra training may be required in some cases. Be aware that Entlebuchers may try to herd the children!
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog needs rules and boundaries set down from the beginning of his life. He can tend to take over the household if he feels that there is no firm leadership in place – a trait coming from his strong sense of pack hierarchy. Although this is a very smart breed, it is also a very strong-willed one prone to “testing the waters” on a regular basis, and as such requires an owner who can be equally strong-willed! Consistent obedience training is therefore key. The breed is not recommended for those who have never owned a dog.
As tireless cattle dogs, Entlebuchers require a lot of exercise. An hour a day of is considered bare minimum – this is not a breed that will be ok just running around in the yard. These guys need a job to do in order to stay sane, so in addition to regular exercise they should be given mental/physical tasks such as agility, tracking or herding. Unlike other short-haired breeds, in colder climates they won’t need to wear a coat or other “warming gear”. This breed developed in Switzerland and does much better in cold climates vs. hot. This said, they can live in our areas of Texas but need to be monitored when the weather turns very hot. Black coats heat up much faster than other colors, exposing them to heat stroke more easily.
Entlebucher Mountain Dogs are generally a healthy and hardy breed. When something health-related does occur, it is often an eye issue such as cataracts or glaucoma, or more rarely, Ureteral Ectopia – a urinary syndrome. Overall, however, most dogs are very healthy and don’t come down with these conditions. Care in general is usually pretty easy, not only with vet care but also grooming. Their short double coat requires only minimal grooming, and shedding isn’t normally too bad as long as they are brushed once a week during shedding season. They are also easy keepers as far as eating – sometimes a little too much. They can be prone to overeating and gaining too much weight, but keeping them on a scheduled diet should take care of this problem.
The Entle tends to get along well with other dogs, and often enjoys playing and socializing. They also do well with cats. Like with children, they may need some human guidance to teach them not to be too rough with some pets. They may tend to discriminate against strange animals they haven’t met yet – another reason to socialize early. When well socialized they are confident and friendly with other pets, often even taking on a protective role.
