Entlebucher Mountain Dog
Updated November 30, 2025
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is an intelligent, high-energy breed originally used for herding cattle in the Swiss Alps. They are loyal and dedicated family companions for active owners who can provide them with the exercise and mental stimulation they require.
Intelligent, Loyal, Agile, Energetic, Protective
40-65 pounds
16-21 inches
11-13 years
Black, Tan, and White (Tricolor)
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About Entlebucher Mountain Dog
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is an intelligent, high-energy breed originally used for herding cattle in the Swiss Alps. They are loyal and dedicated family companions for active owners who can provide them with the exercise and mental stimulation they require.
What Makes Entlebucher Mountain Dogs Special
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog, or 'Entle', is a compact, muscular, and strikingly tricolored dog from Switzerland. As the smallest of the Swiss Mountain breeds, they are celebrated for their boundless energy, sharp intelligence, and unwavering loyalty to their families.
With a history as a cattle herder, the Entle is a hardworking and agile dog that thrives on activity and having a purpose. They are confident and fearless, but also affectionate companions who want to be involved in all aspects of family life.
Entlebucher Mountain Dog History & Origin
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is the smallest of the four breeds of Swiss Mountain Dog and originates from the Entlebuch valley in the canton of Lucerne, Switzerland. The name Sennenhund refers to the 'Senn' or Alpine herdsmen who bred these dogs for their cattle-herding abilities.
The breed was first described in an 1889 article, but for a time, it was not distinguished from the Appenzeller Sennenhund.
In 1913, four bobtail Entlebuchers were shown to Albert Heim, a promoter of the native Swiss breeds, which began the effort to preserve them as a separate breed.
The first breed club was formed in 1926, and a breed standard was completed in 1927.
The breed remains relatively rare, especially outside of Europe.
The cost for an Entlebucher Mountain Dog puppy from a reputable breeder can range from $2,000 to $3,500.
Entlebucher Mountain Dog Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Entlebucher Mountain Dog Appearance
The Entlebucher is a medium-sized, sturdy dog with a bright, alert, and friendly expression. Their body is slightly elongated, giving them a rectangular appearance.
Their most distinctive feature is the classic tricolor coat: a black base with rich tan or rust markings on the cheeks, over the eyes, and on the legs, and symmetrical white markings on the blaze, muzzle, chest, and feet.
Physical Features
Ears
The ears are set high, are triangular in shape, and hang down close to the cheeks, framing the face.
Eyes
Their eyes are relatively small, brown, and have a lively, intelligent, and confident gaze.
Nose
The nose is always black.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
The Entlebucher has a short, close-fitting double coat. The topcoat is harsh and shiny, while the undercoat is dense.
Coat Color
The breed is characterized by its tricolor pattern. The base color is black with symmetrical tan (fawn to mahogany) and white markings.
Tail
The tail can be a natural bobtail from birth or a full-length tail. A white tip on a full tail is desirable.
Entlebucher Mountain Dog Temperament
Entlebucher Mountain Dogs are known for their lively and self-assured temperament. They form a strong bond with their family and are exceptionally loyal and devoted.
Bred as herding dogs, they are intelligent and quick to learn, but their intelligence can also translate into a stubborn or independent streak. Consistent, positive training from an early age is essential.
They are naturally wary of strangers, making them excellent watchdogs. Early and thorough socialization is crucial to ensure they are welcoming to invited guests.
This breed is highly energetic and requires a significant amount of daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. They thrive on having a 'job' to do.
While generally good-natured, their herding instincts can manifest as nipping or bumping, especially with small children, so supervision is recommended. They are not the best choice for first-time dog owners due to their intelligence and energy levels.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Entlebuchers are a generally healthy breed with a lifespan of 11-13 years. However, like all breeds, they are prone to certain genetic health conditions. Responsible breeders will screen their stock for these issues.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular veterinary check-ups, genetic screening of parents, proper diet, and maintaining a healthy weight are crucial.
How to Care for a Entlebucher Mountain Dog
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is an energetic and intelligent breed that requires commitment to exercise, training, and socialization. While their grooming needs are minimal, their need for activity is very high.
Grooming
The Entlebucher's short, dense double coat requires minimal grooming.
Weekly brushing with a firm bristle brush or a rubber grooming mitt will help to remove loose hair and keep the coat shiny.
They do shed seasonally, and more frequent brushing may be required during these periods.
Bathing should only be done as needed to preserve the natural oils in their coat.
Regular nail trims, ear cleaning, and dental care are essential for their overall health.
Training
Entlebuchers are highly intelligent and trainable but can be independent thinkers. They respond best to positive reinforcement techniques with a firm, consistent, and confident leader.
Early socialization and puppy training classes are critical to help them become well-adjusted adults and to manage their natural wariness of strangers.
Due to their herding background, they excel in dog sports such as agility, obedience, and herding trials, which provide both physical and mental stimulation.
Training sessions should be kept engaging and fun to maintain their attention.
Diet
A high-quality dog food appropriate for their age (puppy, adult, senior) and high energy level is recommended.
The amount of food will depend on factors like age, size, activity level, and metabolism.
This breed can be prone to weight gain, so it's important to monitor their food intake and body condition. Avoid overfeeding and limit treats.
Ensure fresh, clean water is always available.
Exercise
This is a high-energy breed that requires at least an hour of vigorous exercise daily.
They are not suited for a sedentary lifestyle and need more than just a short walk around the block.
Activities like hiking, running, swimming, and vigorous play sessions are ideal for this breed.
Mental exercise is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle toys, obedience training, and interactive games can help keep their sharp minds occupied.
A bored Entlebucher can become destructive and vocal.
Environment
Entlebucher Mountain Dogs are best suited for a home with a securely fenced yard where they have room to run and play.
They are generally not recommended for apartment living due to their high energy and exercise needs.
They thrive in active families who can include them in various outdoor activities.
They prefer cooler climates and care should be taken in hot weather to prevent overheating.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
A house with a large, securely fenced yard is essential.
Climate Adaptability
Does well in cooler climates; can be sensitive to high heat.
Apartment Living
Not suitable for apartment living.
Best Suited For
Best suited for active, experienced owners who can provide ample exercise and mental stimulation.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Entlebucher Mountain Dogs good family dogs?
They can be excellent family dogs for active families with older children. Their herding instincts may make them unsuitable for homes with very young children unless properly managed. They are very loyal and protective.
Do Entlebucher Mountain Dogs bark a lot?
Yes, they can be prone to barking. They are alert watchdogs and will bark to announce strangers or anything unusual they perceive.
How much exercise does an Entlebucher need?
They are a high-energy breed needing at least 60 minutes of vigorous exercise every day, in addition to mental stimulation.
Are Entlebuchers easy to train?
They are very intelligent and learn quickly, but their independent streak can be a challenge. They require a confident, consistent trainer and are not ideal for novices.
Are Entlebucher Mountain Dogs aggressive?
They are not typically aggressive but are naturally suspicious of strangers and can be very protective of their family. Proper socialization is crucial to prevent guarding behaviors from becoming problematic.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Requires intensive early socialization with various people, sounds, and environments. Crate training is recommended.
Senior Care
Adjust exercise to their ability, monitor for joint issues, and maintain a healthy weight. Regular vet check-ups are important.
First-Time Owner Tips
Not recommended for first-time dog owners due to their high energy, intelligence, and training needs.
Looking for a Entlebucher Mountain Dog?
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