Appenzell Cattle Dog

Appenzellský salašnický pes

Appenzell Cattle Dog – front view — Photo: Rosa-Maria Rinkl, CC BY-SA 4.0, source

Appenzell Cattle Dog – head — Photo: Pleple2000, CC BY-SA 3.0, source

Key facts

FCI group	2. Pinscher and Schnauzer, Molossoid breeds, Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs
Country of origin	Switzerland
Category	Medium

Recognition features

Medium-sized, nearly square tricolour dog with a cheeky expression
Firm, shiny coat; black or havana base with rust-brown and white markings
Tail curled over the back; very agile and alert

Purpose

A Swiss cattle dog used for driving cattle and guarding farms; today a versatile working and family dog.

History

The Appenzell Cattle Dog was first described in 1853 in "Tierleben der Alpenwelt" as a high-pitch barking, short-haired, medium-sized multicolour cattle dog of fairly spitz type. In 1895 head-forester Max Siber asked the Swiss Cynological Society to recognise the breed.

Coat

Firm double coat (Stockhaar), close fitting; thick shiny topcoat, thick undercoat; black or havana-brown base with reddish-brown and white markings.

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The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard. Report a photo or rights.