Entlebucher Mountain Dog
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is the smallest of Switzerland's four Sennenhund breeds, originating in the Entlebuch valley between the cantons of Lucerne and Berne.
Traditionally used as a versatile farm dog, it herded cattle and pigs whilst guarding property and assisting with daily agricultural tasks.
26-30kg
Weight
Medium
Size
12-14yrs
Lifespan
About the Entlebucher Mountain Dog
Today, this compact working breed retains the energy and drive that made it invaluable on Alpine farms. Standing 42 to 50 centimetres tall and weighing 26 to 30 kilograms, Entlebuchers are sturdy and agile with a distinctive tricolour coat of black, tan, and white markings. Their short, dense coat requires minimal grooming, making coat care straightforward for owners. Temperamentally, Entlebuchers are lively, confident, and highly intelligent, displaying strong working instincts alongside an independent nature that can make training both rewarding and occasionally testing. They form deep bonds with their families but tend to be cautious around strangers, reflecting their heritage as property guardians. With exercise needs of up to one hour daily, combined with significant mental stimulation requirements, this breed suits active, experienced owners in rural or semi-rural settings. A lifespan of 12 to 14 years means a long-term commitment, but one that can be deeply fulfilling for the right household.
Entlebucher Mountain Dog at a Glance
- Group
- Working
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 26–30 kg
- Height
- 42–50 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Short
- Sheds
- Yes
- Exercise
- Up to 1 hour per day
- Typical price
- £800–£1500
Entlebucher Mountain Dog Lifestyle
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is well suited to a smaller house and suits a home with a large garden where they can roam freely. They are equally happy in town or country.
Dog Food for Entlebucher Mountain Dog
Top-rated foods for Medium breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Recommended Food for Entlebucher Mountain Dog
Entlebucher Mountain Dog Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Entlebucher Mountain Dog weighing around 28 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£5.02 - £5.35
Per month
£151 - £161
Per year
£1833 - £1954
Entlebucher Mountain Dog Characteristics
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog requires significant daily exercise and outdoor time and picks up commands quickly and responds well to training. They are brilliant with children, but can be left alone without too much trouble if their needs are met. The coat isn't too demanding but does need consistent brushing and leaves some hair around the home but isn't excessive. They are a highly intelligent breed that needs mental stimulation as well as physical exercise.
Entlebucher Mountain Dog Pros & Cons
Pros
- The smallest of the Swiss mountain breeds, with a striking tricolour coat
- Highly intelligent and quick to pick up new commands and tricks
- Forms strong bonds with their main caregivers and thrives on human company
- Excels in canine sports such as agility and flyball
Cons
- Puppies are hard to come by in the UK, often with long waiting lists
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods
- Needs high levels of daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay settled
- Can be vocal, and may display herding behaviours like nipping and chasing
