Kooikerhondje vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison

Kooikerhondje vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed ComparisonKooikerhondje is originated from Netherlands but Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is originated from Switzerland. Kooikerhondje may grow 32 cm / 12 inches shorter than Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. Kooikerhondje may weigh 59 kg / 130 pounds lesser than Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. Both Kooikerhondje and Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has almost same life span. Kooikerhondje may have less litter size than Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. Kooikerhondje requires Low maintenance. But Greater Swiss Mountain Dog requires Moderate maintenance

History

kooikerhondje - historyThe Kooikerhondje is of Dutch ancestry and is a medium-sized spaniel-type dog breed that has always been a working dog, being used to attract ducks into traps but being bred as an all-purpose dog.

They were particularly sought after in the 17th and 18th century, appearing in paintings of Rembrandt. The breed died out during World War II, but it was rescued by Baroness van Hardenbroek van Ammerstol and recognized by the Dutch Kennel Club.

In January 2018 the Nederlnadse Kooikerhondje is fully recognized by the American Kennel Club, competing in the Sporting Group.

greater swiss mountain dog - historyHailing from Switzerland, and one of its oldest dog breeds, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has a dubious history in that there are a number of theories as to its origin. He is closely related to the Bernese Mountain Dog, Saint Bernard and Rottweiler.

Of all the theories, the one that says he is descended from large, mastiff-like dogs is a popular one. He used to be a herding- and guard dog, but also was used to pull carts of farm produce.

It was in the 1900s that the dog’s numbers started dwindling. In 1908, canine researcher, Albert Heim recognized the dogs as being large members of the Sennenhund type, a family of four breeds that includes the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog.

He wanted to see the dogs recognized as a separate breed and the Swiss Kennel Club listed the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog in 1909.

In 1968 they were brought to the United States and a club for them was formed. The dog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1995 with the dog being recognized as a member of the Working group.

Description

kooikerhondje puppy - descriptionThe Kooikerhondje is a medium sized dog standing at 35 – 40cm at the withers and weighing anything between 9 – 11kg. He has a medium length coat which is a red and white color, with floppy ears.

A distinctive feature with this dog is the black tips of the long ears, and which are referred to as earrings. The coat can be wavy or straight. Typical of spaniel-like dog his plumed white tail moves jauntily, as though always happy. When you look at him he has a gentle expression, while being alert too.

Temperament:

Friendly, content, cheerful, good-natured and quiet – these are some of the words which describe the amicable Kooikerhondje.

He is also intelligent, wanting to please his owner. He is good around children too, but make sure your children are taught to respect and be kind to animals.

The Kooikerhondje is an adaptable dog and can be as as quiet or as jaunty as you want. He is adaptable to city life or life in the country, but he will need to be exercised and taken for walks.

greater swiss mountain dog puppy - descriptionSwissies, as they are often referred to as, are large, robust dogs, standing at 65–72cm and weighing anything between 50 – 70kg, with the females being slightly smaller and weighing a little less.

He has big, rounded paws, medium length floppy ears, a broad chest and a long tail. This is a heavy-boned dog, strong while still being agile.

His dense, double coat is black, white and tan or rust, with black on top of the dog's back, ears, tail and legs. There are two rust dots above each eye. The coat can be short and straight to medium length, coarse and wavy. The dog sheds throughout the year with a major shedding a couple of times a year.

Temperament:

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a sociable canine, thriving on being part of a loving human family. While he used to be a working farm dog, today he is essentially a family pet, though he loves to still be busy.

He is generally friendly with strangers, but just like with all other dog breeds, he will need to be trained and socialized to turn him into an even-tempered, obedient dog, capable of getting on well with children and pets in the the home.

Characteristics

kooikerhondje dog - characteristicsKooiker, as he’s fondly referred to for short, has a happy personality, and bringing him into your home will be like bringing in some joy and sunshine.

He is a fun, energetic companion and you can count him in for all your outdoor activities such as walk, hikes and swimming. He’ll love to fetch every ball you throw, and that’s because he is such a playful dog.

He is a loving dog too, making a great playmate for children. Treat him like one of the family, and the Kooiker will surprise you with the amount of pleasure he brings.

greater swiss mountain dog dog - characteristicsThe Swissy is an easy going dog and adapts easily into his human family’s lifestyle. He is big, but agile dog known for his gentle temperament.

While he loves the outdoors, he is a social dog and loves nothing more than coming indoors and being close to his human family.

He loves his family and won’t do well if left outside for days without human companionship. Treat him well and you’ll be rewarded with a loyal, loving 4-legged family member.

Health Problems

kooikerhondje puppies - health problemsThe lifespan of the Kooikerhondje is about 12 – 14 years, and looked after well, he can be your canine friend for many years.

He loves his food and can put on weight easily, and obesity is one of the health problems he may have to deal with. Kidney- and eye problems might also be something that you may have to deal with with this dog breed, although most unlikely.

Obesity:

Obesity in dogs is very sad because its a disease that can be avoided. Dogs that are over fed are at particular risk because they can't exercise, and this in itself can lead to serious health issues.

There are different causes of obesity, but it is mostly caused by the dog being fed- and eating more than he can expend. Just like with humans, obesity becomes more common in old age as the metabolism slows down. A dog that has been neutered or spayed also tends to put on weight more easily.

If you're unsure what to do for your obese dog, speak to your vet who can recommend a diet for your pet. Remember that with feeding your dog, prevention is better than cure.

Kidney Problems:

Kidney problems, though more common with older dogs, can strike at any age. The kidneys play a host of important functions such as regulating blood pressure. Sometimes kidney failure is slow and the symptoms may not be obvious.

With renal failure, your pet will be lethargic, they will be vomiting, be depressed and have weight loss. Other possible symptoms are increased thirst, blood in the urine and seizures. Chronic renal failure can't be cured but treatment is aimed at making your pet comfortable.

greater swiss mountain dog puppies - health problemsThe GSMD or Sennenhund, as his name is shortened to, is a fairly healthy dog breed, with very few health issues.

He has an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years, and although not likely, he can suffer from minor problems such as gastric torsion as well as female urinary incontinence. If your female dog is dribbling urine in her sleep, there are a number of reasons that can be causing it - bladder infections, a medical condition or a weakened bladder with spayed female dogs.

It is certainly time to get your pet to the vet who will recommend a urinalysis.

Caring The Pet

kooikerhondje dogs - caringYour Kooikerhondje is smart, happy-go-lucky dog and it is important to know your pet's needs so you can care properly for him. Exercise your Kooikerhondje daily as he is a high-energy dog and even short walks can be good for him.

He absolutely loves balls games too. He can live in the city or the country but will do better when he has the chance for exercise. Urban- and city environments can work if there are nearby parks to cater for his energy.

Grooming:

The Kooikehondje has long hair but he is surprisingly low maintenance and will simply require a brush once or twice a week.

If you love your pet but just can't find the time to see to his grooming needs, take him to the vet for regular checkups to check ears, teeth and eyes. They can come down with problems with the eyes or have some or other skin allergy.

Diet:

Give your Kooikerhondje the right food, and make sure its the highest quality. If you buy him commercially manufactured food, pay attention to the ingredients list and make sure that proper meat is at the top of the list.

Add cooked chicken, brown rice and vegetables to his dry kibble as a tasty treat sometimes. Learn to recognize the less nutritious ingredients such as wheat or grain. Also learn to avoid foods which are bad for your dog such as chocolate and onions.

Diet:

greater swiss mountain dog dogs - caringThe Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a robust dog and thrives on a diet of kibble to raw meat to some cooked home-made food such as chicken, brown rice and vegetables.

A serious issue with the GSMD is overfeeding, resulting in uncomfortable digestive problems and of course, obesity.

Exercise:

Your GSMD isn’t a dog that is going to require a lot of exercise like some of the other dog breeds there are, but still his working career of the past requires that he still be taken on daily walks, enjoys ball- and rope games and to go swimming.

Grooming:

Brush your dogs coat at least twice a week to remove loose hears. Other grooming aspects include cleaning the ears to avoid infection, clipping his nails and brushing his teeth at least twice a week.

If you’re not sure how to do all these things, there are useful accessories for dogs that allow you to do all this grooming on your own. Your vet can also show you how as these are all things that will require ongoing attention.

Basic Information

Group:
Sporting dog
Working dog
Origin:
Netherlands
Switzerland
Height Male:
35 - 40 cm
13 - 16 inches
65 - 72 cm
25 - 29 inches
Height Female:
35 - 40 cm
13 - 16 inches
60 - 70 cm
23 - 28 inches
Weight Male:
9 - 11 kg
19 - 25 pounds
60 - 70 kg
132 - 155 pounds
Weight Female:
9 - 11 kg
19 - 25 pounds
55 - 70 kg
121 - 155 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 14 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 7
5 - 10
Size:
Medium dog
Large dog
Other Names:
Kooiker
GSMD, Swissy, Sennenhund
Colors Available:
Red and white
Black, white and rust
Coat:
Long and silky
Short and straight to medium length, coarse and wavy
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling Retriever vs Kooikerhondje - Breed Comparison
  2. Lagotto Romagnolo vs Kooikerhondje - Breed Comparison
  3. Shikoku vs Kooikerhondje - Breed Comparison
  4. Slovakian Hound vs Kooikerhondje - Breed Comparison
  5. Small Munsterlander vs Kooikerhondje - Breed Comparison
  6. Sussex Spaniel vs Kooikerhondje - Breed Comparison
  7. Kooikerhondje vs East Siberian Laika - Breed Comparison
  8. Kooikerhondje vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  9. Kooikerhondje vs French Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  10. Kooikerhondje vs Flat-Coated Retriever - Breed Comparison
  11. Kooikerhondje vs Finnish Spitz - Breed Comparison
  12. Kooikerhondje vs Ariegeois - Breed Comparison
  13. Kooikerhondje vs Beagador - Breed Comparison
  14. Kooikerhondje vs English Water Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  15. Kooikerhondje vs Field Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  16. Kooikerhondje vs Artois Hound - Breed Comparison
  17. Kooikerhondje vs Curly Coated Retriever - Breed Comparison
  18. Kooikerhondje vs Braque Francais - Breed Comparison
  19. Kooikerhondje vs Formosan Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  20. Kooikerhondje vs Braque Francais (Pyrenean Type) - Breed Comparison
  21. Kooikerhondje vs Braque Saint-Germain - Breed Comparison
  22. Welsh Springer Spaniel vs Kooikerhondje - Breed Comparison
  23. West Siberian Laika vs Kooikerhondje - Breed Comparison
  24. Wetterhoun vs Kooikerhondje - Breed Comparison
  25. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon vs Kooikerhondje - Breed Comparison
  26. Samoyed vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  27. Presa Canario vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  28. Labrador Husky vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  29. Mackenzie River Husky vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  30. Pyredoodle vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  31. Lurcher vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  32. Maremma Sheepdog vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  33. Sarplaninac vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  34. Himalayan Mastiff vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  35. Mountain View Cur vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  36. Native American Indian Dog vs Greater Swiss Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  37. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  38. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  39. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  40. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  41. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  42. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Alaskan Malamute - Breed Comparison
  43. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Bullmastiff - Breed Comparison
  44. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Great Pyrenees - Breed Comparison
  45. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Boerboel - Breed Comparison
  46. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  47. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Argentine Dogo - Breed Comparison
  48. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Giant Schnauzer - Breed Comparison
  49. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  50. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Belgian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds