Greater Swiss Mountain Dog (Swissy, Grosser Schweizer Sennenhund) is the biggest of the swiss mountain dogs. In this group there are 4 breeds, which are very similar in appearance:

- Entlebuh mountain dog (the smallest, short tail) 
- Appenzell mountain dog (short, curled tail) 
- Bernese mountain dog (large, long coat) 
- Greater Swiss Mountain Dog (the largest, short coat)

GSMD's coat consists of three colors: a black base color, white and red-brown spots. The coat is short. Males rich a height of 68 - 72 cm, females 62 - 68 cm. In contrast to other large breeds this one doesn't drivel, probably because of the proportionally small upper lip. Females weigh anywhere from 45 - 55 kg, males 55 - 65 kg.

Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs - male and female                Daughter, mother and father                 

They are excelent guard dogs, suspicious towards strangers or other novelties (like a new bowl for  water). They pay atention to smallest details and like many other breeds, they pay attention to their master with pleasure and enjoy a commendation from him. But we must not forget that they are a working breed, so they can be sharp. A swissy will not run to a stranger and wag it's tail, it will near him with caution and bark at him. The uninvited fear it, because it barks loudly and also because of it's size. But the swissy will just bark, because it's not an agressive breed. Many decide for the swissy just for protection.

They are precise and sweet, they have a nice character, which is a product of many centuries of breeding. All in all they are a good companion and worker, loyal to their master and home. These are intelligent dogs of a calm and stable character. They only bark when necessary, or if they are allowed to. They jealously guard women and children in particular. They need a lot of socialization, therefore, education is highly recommended. Otherwise, they present very good companions and workers, loyal to their family and home. 

They love the whole family, not just one member. They are also fond of kids, they act tenderly, patiently and protectively towards them.

VIDEO: Greater swiss mountain dogs (click) 

Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are a fast learning breed, they never forget what they were taught. If we want to master them, they must consider us as the leader of the pack.They follow and obey a good master. They are great learners. They require an experienced owner and are not the most suitable for beginners. For beginners dog training is mandatory, for others highly recommended.

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs today are above all known as being family dogs, but are also used for the search and rescue operations, for therapeutic purposes, for hauling heavy loads, competing in pulling carts, obedience, and in addition also as excellent guard and shepherd dogs. They have no killer instinct and they instinctively take care of the herd. They are never tempted to run after rabbits or deer. They are quiet and obedient dogs. They prefer cold temperatures. Their favourite season is winter. 

In addition to excellent character and easy grooming, the large Swiss Mountain Dogs also boast in their beauty. In many books they are described as the most beautiful dogs in the world.