Unique Traits of the Entlebuch Cattle Dog Breed
The origin of the Entlebuch cattle dog breed is in Switzerland, specifically from Entlebuch, from which it takes its name, a valley in the region of the cantons Lucerne and Bern. This is the smallest of the Swiss mountain dogs and until not long ago was lumped together with the Appenzell Shepherd, until in 1913 four specimens of a cross of this dog with the bobtail were presented at the Langenthal dog show, but it was not until 1926 that this breed was recognized.
It has been used as a livestock guide, also used as a herding, guarding, and stationary dog. It is capable of driving to pasture not only flocks of sheep, but also herds of much larger animals such as cows and horses. Currently because of its adaptability in any environment it is also considered an excellent companion dog.
Even today, it is not a very popular dog, but it has no shortage of admirers (and they are always growing), especially among families with children. It is a breed that is very little known outside its own country. In Italy there are few specimens.
Character of the Entlebuch cattle dog breed
Like all cattle dogs that have a magnificent temperament, the Entlebuch is also very loyal to its owner for life and makes him its reference point. However, he is also affectionate with others in his family circle, both human and animal.
In fact, if socialized from an early age he gets along well with all the pets living in his home, of which he also becomes a kind of protector. Even with children he gets along well, in fact he likes to play a lot, with the precaution of size that he must be able to handle.
In fact, the Entlebuch cattle dog needs a lot of movement; he is an energetic and tireless dog. He is a strong and fearless spirit, spirited and alert but above all good, who does well anywhere, even in an apartment because he adapts well to the rhythms of the family; but he must not be very sedentary, his peace of mind in the house depends very much on his daily activities.
The Entlebuch cattle dog is a very intelligent dog and therefore very easy to train, but he is slightly suspicious of strangers so he is not very suitable as a guard dog. Its intelligence and learning ability make it an excellent avalanche dog and for searching for missing persons.
He bears loneliness badly, so he is not suitable for families who would leave him alone most of the day. He needs to be especially with his owner for whom he has a really strong attachment. Despite its excellent temperament, it is best suited for sporty, non-elderly owners.
Appearance of the Entlebuch cattle dog breed
It is the smallest of the cattle dogs, but still retains considerable tonnage. In fact, the height at withers can reach 52 centimeters in the male with a weight of up to 30 kilograms. It is therefore medium-sized, rather short, with a slightly elongated shape and less massive than other cattle dogs.
Its build is sturdy with a broad chest and a marked chest, its legs are rather short, vigorous, straight and parallel, and its tail, which follows the extension of the spine, is slightly inclined. Some dogs of this breed are born with very short tails. Overall, it is a harmonious dog of balanced proportions.
The head is well proportioned to the body, with a flat, relatively broad skull and a thick, black truffle. The muzzle is marked, narrowing gradually but not pointed. The ears are not too large, with a high hairline, are relatively wide and drooping. The eyes are rounded in shape, hazel in color, sweet, very expressive and intelligent.
Finally, the coat has a double coat, with a short, very close-fitting, strong and shiny cover coat and a thick undercoat. There are 3 colors, black, fiery red and white. The undercoat is black, the blotches go from yellow to brownish red, almost rust-colored, and finally white spots around the truffle, where it extends in a narrow line between the eyes. on the chest and feet.
Care and health of the Entlebuch cattle dog breed
The Entlebuch cattle dog is a very robust dog that is not prone to frequent disease. Like all cattle dogs it is prone to hip dysplasia, and the most common diseases involve the eyes, which must therefore be kept monitored. It has a life expectancy of about 13 years.
As for coat retention, just brushing him two or three times a month is enough, he does not need special care, and fur loss is modest. High temperatures do not frighten this sturdy dog, and his double coat protects him well from cold and damp.
He is an outdoor-loving dog like all cattle dogs. Not very suitable for apartment life, but it can adapt to it, yes, it can live in the city but with numerous walks during the day.
As for nutrition, being robust and energetic, it needs a balanced diet and if it does not get enough exercise it tends to gain weight because it has a good appetite.
