Big, brave, and built for the cold, mountain dog breeds are not like other animals. These dogs come from snowy places, high up in the mountainous regions. They were made to work, protect, and love with all their heart and soul.
Mountain dog breeds are very strong, intelligent, and loyal. They are working dogs who pull carts, rescue people, and guard homes. But at the end of the day, they love cuddles just as much as they love snow. Some can weigh over 100 pounds but still want to sit in your lap like other pets!
These dogs are smart, gentle, and great with humans. If you’re thinking about getting a hard-working dog with a heart, muscles, and a fluffy coat, a mountain dog might be the perfect choice.
Let’s explore the best mountain dog breeds you can bring home today.
7 Mountain Dog Breeds Who Can Endure Tough Terrain
Below are the top 7 mountain dog breeds, from which you can choose your next hiking buddy to explore the world.
1. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese mountain dog is one of the four breeds of Swiss mountain dogs. They were originally bred as hardy dogs to work on farms, herd livestock, and pull heavy carts. The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, hard-working dog that stands over 27 inches at the shoulder. Berners have an affectionate nature, and they get along with owners but possess special love for kids.
Bernese Mountain Dogs look very attractive and charming with their large, sturdy frame and striking tricolor coat. They have rust and white markings on a black coat. Moreover, a white blaze on their face, a rust “mask,” and rust paws take their personality to the next level.
Gentle Nature
Bernese mountain dogs are of a very gentle and affectionate nature. They are called “gentle giants” just because of their large size and kind plus loving disposition.
Working Heritage
These mountain dog breeds have a strong work ethic because they were originally bred as working dogs in the Swiss Alps. They can pull carts, and as farm dogs, some of that work ethic is still present in their DNA.
2. Entlebucher Mountain Dog
When we think about mountain dogs, a big and healthy pup comes to mind. Entlebucher Mountain Dogs are a different mountain dog breed. They are one of the few mountain dog breeds with low weight and short height. Entlebucher Mountain Dogs possess a high energy, fantastic for herding and farm work.
Funny Personalities
They are intelligent dogs who just love fun, which is why they are “laughing dogs” of the Swiss Alps, as per PetMD.They are affectionate with their family, but they might need time to warm up to strangers.
Sturdy Build
Entlebuchers are well-muscled and agile then other dogs. So if you need a partner, they are suited for various physical activities and outdoor fun.
Loyalty
You can not question their loyalty as they are fiercely loyal and protective of their owners, particularly children, making them a top pick as watchdogs. They are always alert and watchful against strangers.
3. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, or Swissy, is a majestic and robust breed. It is known for its strength, loyalty, and gentle nature. This breed, which originated in the Swiss Alps, has a long history of being employed as farm dogs, mostly to protect flocks and herd cattle. Therefore, they have inherited a protective instinct.
Impressive Size
These dogs have a substantial size compared to other dogs. Males typically stand between 25.5 to 28.5 inches at the shoulder and weigh about 115 to 140 pounds. But Females are slightly smaller, but still they are robust.
Gentle and Friendly
Regardless of their size, these large dogs are well-liked by human families and children. The reason is their gentle and friendly temperament. However, early socialization is required.
Coat
These mountain dogs have a smooth, short, and dense double coat, which is ideal for living in mountainous areas. Some of them have double coats compared to other dogs.
4. Newfoundlands
The Newfoundland is a strikingly large, powerful working dog breed with heavy bones and a dignified bearing. It has a sweet temperament; therefore, a good companion. It has earned a reputation as a patient and watchful dog breed.
Energy Levels
Though their size can make them appear lumbering and low-energy, Newfies have a spring in their step when needed and love to work. However, they need regular exercise to stay active.
Thick Double Coat
Newfoundland has a dense, double coat. The double coat acts as excellent insulation against cold conditions. Therefore, these pets can easily work in frigid temperatures and snowy conditions.
Natural Swimmers
Newfoundlands are naturally excellent swimmers, so they are very valuable for water rescue missions, and can be beneficial in mountainous regions.
5. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are giant dog breeds that got early training by monks in the 1600s to find and rescue people buried by avalanches in the Swiss Alps, as per SBCA. That is the reason they are still used as search and rescue dogs. Currently, most of them are found in homes where they serve as affectionate and gentle pets. This mountain dog breed loves to be in the company of humans.
Rescue History
Saint Bernards gained fame for their work rescuing people who were lost in the mountains, particularly in avalanches in the Swiss Alps. They are all-rounders but need training to perform various roles.
Strong Body
Due to their muscular build and strong legs, these animals can navigate rocky terrain. They can help in hauling carts or with rescues in mountainous areas.
Adaptability
These breeds are physically and mentally strong, so they are highly adaptable to and thrive in a variety of environments and harsh conditions.
6. Great Pyrenees
The Pyrenean Mountain Dog, or Great Pyrenees, is a large-to-giant-sized working dog. This dog was bred to guard property and herd in the Pyrenees Mountains of France. They possess a high energy level, therefore, proper training is required to channelize their energy. The Great Pyrenees temperament is known for being laid-back, affectionate, easygoing, and independent.
Calm Temperament
With gentle nature and protective instincts, they are sometimes used as therapy dogs and search and rescue dogs.
Unique Gait
They are also famous for their “snowshoe” walk, a wide-footed gait that helps them walk easily on snow without sinking.
7. Appenzeller Sennenhund
The Appenzeller Sennenhund, also known as the Appenzeller mountain dog or Appenzell cattle dog, is one of the four Swiss Mountain dog breeds. The main purpose of building this breed was to herd cattle and guard the farms. They are super fast and smart dogs who are very close to their owners.
Reserve with Strangers
These dogs are very cautious, and usually they get reserved with strangers. They take time to warm up with unknown people.
Highly Alert
These dogs are highly alert and sensitive to new sounds, smells, and movements.
Conclusion
Mountain dogs are big, brave, and full of love. They may look tough, but their hearts are soft. These dogs were made for snow, work, and cuddles. From the playful Entlebucher to the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, each dog breed brings something special. If you have space, time, and love to give, a mountain dog might be your perfect match.
