The Entlebucher Mountain Dog Community

The Entlebucher Mountain Dog, known in Switzerland as the Entlebucher Sennenhund, is the smallest and most compact of the four Swiss mountain dog breeds, a tricolour cattle herding dog developed in the Entlebuch valley region of central Switzerland. Related to the Appenzeller, Greater Swiss Mountain Dog and Bernese Mountain Dog, the Entlebucher shares the distinctive black, tan and white tricolour colouring of its Swiss relatives but is considerably smaller and more compact than the Bernese, making it a more manageable size while retaining the energy and working character of a true herding dog. Registered by the Kennel Club in the Working Group, it is uncommon in the UK but has a devoted following among active owners who appreciate its combination of compact size and impressive capability. The breed's history in the Entlebuch valley dates back several centuries, where it was used as a versatile farm dog capable of driving and herding cattle, guarding property and providing general working assistance. The breed was nearly lost in the early twentieth century and was revived through the efforts of the Swiss breeder Franz Schertenleib, who in 1913 began the formal work of collecting and breeding from remaining dogs of the type. Today it is well established in Switzerland and increasingly known internationally. The appearance is distinctive and immediately appealing to Swiss mountain dog enthusiasts. The Entlebucher is a compact, muscular, short-backed dog with the characteristic tricolour coat of the group: a base of black with rich tan markings over the eyes, on the cheeks, chest and legs, and precise white markings on the muzzle, chest, feet and tail tip. The coat is short, hard and close-lying. The Entlebucher is noticeably shorter than the other Swiss breeds, typically standing 44 to 52 centimetres at the shoulder, with a characteristic naturally bobbed or docked tail. The character is working herding dog through and through: energetic, alert, confident, loyal and highly intelligent. The Entlebucher needs a purpose. It thrives when given regular dog sports, training, herding activities or other purposeful work. Without sufficient mental and physical engagement it can become frustrated and difficult. With the right level of activity it is an energetic, enthusiastic and devoted companion. The breed can be initially reserved with strangers, reflecting the watchdog heritage of the Swiss mountain dogs. Early and thorough socialisation is important to develop a confident, stable adult temperament. It is generally good with other dogs and with children in active households. Health testing is essential in this breed. Hip dysplasia and hereditary eye conditions are the two most significant inherited concerns, and both parents should be tested before breeding. The Entlebucher Mountain Dog Association operates a strict health testing and breeding protocol. Purchase prices from KC-registered, health-tested breeders range from £1,000 to £2,000. Monthly running costs average £90 to £160. The Entlebucher Mountain Dog Club UK is the primary resource for breed information, health testing, responsible breeders and rescue contact.