Appearance of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dane
|
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dane will appear robust, with a broad, flat skull like the Great Swiss Mountain Dog, or may have a narrower head with a deep muzzle like the Great Dane. Eye color can vary from brown to hazel, and the eyes will be medium-sized and almond-shaped. Ears can be erect or folded, depending on parental genetic influences, which affect all your hybrid's characteristics. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dane will have a muscular body. Its neck can be described as graceful in some hybrids and thick in others. His straight legs are strong and his paws are round. His coat will be medium to fine in texture, and will be short and thick. Attractive in all shades of coat, they come in a range of beautiful colors, including fawn, black, blue, brindle, merle, chocolate and tricolor in black, rust and white. |
Temperament of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dane
|
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dane will inherit its temperament from its parents, and will be alert yet gentle and affectionate. Despite its size, it can be so affectionate that it wants to be in your lap. Gentle and good-natured, he can have a stubborn streak, choosing to make his own decisions rather than follow your instructions. For this reason, he'll need an owner who can show leadership and consistency. Protective by nature, he will use his loud barking to alert you to any problems. When exposed to children as a puppy, he will get on well with them and should remain fairly calm despite the children's antics. This hybrid is known to be highly trainable, as it loves to learn. |
Needs and activities of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dane
|
As a dog bred to work, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dane will appreciate a fenced yard where it can roam freely throughout the day. He needs to be accompanied at all times, as he's not the kind of dog who will want to be left alone outside. Take him for a walk two or three times a day. This big dog needs to stretch and move around to feel better. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dane's parent likes to play in the snow, but the Great Dane's influence may dampen this desire a little. Whatever the parental influence, heatstroke can be a problem for your dog, so caution is advised when exercising in hot weather. This hybrid is not destined to live in an apartment simply because it's too big. |
Maintenance of the Greater Swiss Mountain Dane
|
There's not a lot of information out there about caring for your Greater Swiss Mountain Dane, although you can consider the care requirements of its parent breeds to get an idea of what to expect. The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog sheds very little most of the year. Twice a year, it sheds all its undercoat. On the other hand, the Great Dane will shed a lot, although regular grooming will keep this under control. Frequent brushing will also reduce the need to bathe your Great Dane. On this basis, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dane should be brushed weekly with a pincushion brush if his coat is long, while a smoother brush is suitable for shorter coats. If he sheds a lot, try the hair removal tool to remove loose fur. Regular ear cleaning with a cotton ball and ear cleaning solution is recommended for the Greater Swiss Mountain Dane, especially if his ears fold back. Clip his nails often to facilitate the procedure, as they will be thick and strong. Brush his teeth twice a week. |