The Appenzeller Sennenhund is one of the four Swiss mountain dog breeds, originally used as a multi-purpose worker. This energetic and sprightly dog can accomplish a wide variety of tasks with ease and enthusiasm! Medium-sized and always tri-colored (either black tri or havana brown tri), he shows a striking similarity to his Swiss cousins. Along with a sturdy body built for work, he has a self-assured mind and courageous temperament. When raised correctly, he is a loyal and reliable companion in the home as well as in his work (whatever it may be).
The Appenzeller is quite capable of learning a wide variety of tasks in obedience. He is very intelligent and as such, actually requires a job to do in order to be happy. While originally he was a watchdog/farm dog/drover/guard, nowadays he also enjoys more modern jobs such as competitive obedience, search and rescue, agility, herding, Frisbee competitions, carting, sledding, weight pulling and tracking. This said, he does have the propensity for stubbornness and often will not work for a wishy-washy owner. A good match would include an owner who is experienced in dealing with dominant dogs, and who is willing to put in the time with early/frequent socialization and consistent training.
Sennenhunds make great watch and guard dogs, and they cannot be bribed. This also means that they take a long time to warm up to strangers. Apartment living isn’t the best environment for them due to their suspicious temperaments and preoccupation for barking at “threats” (whether or not those threats are real), as well as their high need for exercise. The guarding instincts are inborn and don’t need to be trained – but with this comes extra responsibility on the owner’s part (any territorial dog should only be owned by those who know what they are doing). Similarly, the breed also has herding instincts which may be either helpful or annoying, depending upon the owner’s needs and lifestyle.
The Appenzeller Sennenhund, despite having a smooth coat, does tend to shed somewhat excessively. This is due to their double coat. Make sure to brush at least weekly in order to remove any dead hair, and this should lessen the shedding to a degree. In addition to brushing, they should have their ears cleaned weekly and nails trimmed weekly or every other week. Don’t forget brushing or other dental care! When well-taken care of, they tend to live 13-15 years. 
Like many of the multi-purpose working breeds, Appenzellers require a ton of exercise! This athletic and strong breed is quick and agile – they must be owned by people who can keep up with their energy and strength. Furthermore they need lots of room to stretch their legs on a regular basis – they would be a terrible choice for someone without access to a yard as they love the great outdoors! When trained, they are dependable both on and off-leash. The breed enjoys activities where they can roughhouse, jump and play – and do so vigorously for long periods of time. Once finally tired out, they will be calm in the home… until the next day when they will want to start again! Dogs which aren’t exercised enough or given enough to occupy their minds, will likely become destructive and/or neurotic.
The Sennenhund can become very emotionally attached to his family, and will act very lovingly and affectionately toward them. Some of them will seek attention more so than might otherwise be desired. Sensitive to emotions, many know when a family member is upset and will act accordingly. They also get along well with other animals, in general. They can do well in families with children, although are best with kids that are slightly older. After all, they are very physical and active, and likely to injure small toddler-age kids.
Appenzeller Sennenhunds are still considered rare in the United States and as such it can take a while to get a puppy. As of this moment, they are recognized by AKC’s FSS program but are not a fully recognized AKC breed. For those that love them, however, the wait is worth it! Although they require a very particular type of home, with the right match they are a healthy and cheerful working companion who will bring joy and excitement into life!
