Designer Breed Icon
  • Activity Level: moderate
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  • Shedding Level: moderate
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  • Grooming Level: moderate
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  • Trainability: high
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  • Good for Novice Owners: moderate
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  • Adaptability: moderate
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  • Kid/Pet Friendly: often
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  • Prey Drive: low
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  • Watchdog: aware
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  • Average Size: Large
  • Average Lifespan: 8-11 years

Greater Swiss Mountain Doodle Dog Breed Information

Overview

Temperament

Adaptability

Health

Owner Experience

Grooming

Activity Level

Size

Life Span

A Greater Swiss Mountain Doodle is a cross between a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog and a Poodle. They are also referred to as a Swissy Mountain Doodle. These dogs are intelligent, loyal to their families, are protective of them, and are affectionate with them.

Greater Swiss Mountain Doodles are loyal and devoted to their families. They are protective of them and enjoy nothing more than spending time with their favorite humans. Although they are hardworking and determined working dogs, they are affectionate family companions as well.

These dogs tend to have sweet natures and playful personalities when they are with their families. They also tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Because of their protective and watchdog tendencies, they are initially wary of strangers. But, as long as they are properly socialized, they warm up quickly to strangers once they are introduced.

Swissy Mountain Doodles are moderately adaptable dogs. They are large dogs with a lot of energy, so they are better suited to larger homes with room for them to run. They are sensitive to heat, but can handle some cold. Because they bond so closely with their families, they do not like to be left alone.

Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Greater Swiss Mountain Doodle include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, epilepsy, von Willebrand’s disease, skin conditions, and eye issues. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies, so don’t be afraid to ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents.

As a large dog breed with a barrel chest, the Greater Swiss Mountain Doodle is at risk for bloat. Although bloat can sometimes just be gas, it can lead to gastric torsion, which is dangerous and fatal if not treated. Because of this, it’s important to know how to reduce the risk of bloat in dogs and also what symptoms to look for so you can get help as soon as possible.

Swissy Mountain Doodles are highly intelligent, eager to please, and pick up on things quickly. They also tend to be sensitive and in tune with their owners, but they can have a stubborn and determined streak that can be a challenge for first-time dog owners.

Even if you don’t need them, puppy training classes can be a great resource and a good activity to do with your puppy. Not only do these classes offer opportunities to socialize a puppy, but they also strengthen your bond and reinforce training.

Although a Greater Swiss Mountain Doodle can sometimes inherit the non-shedding Poodle coat, they could also end up with a coat closer to their Swissy parent. If they have a Swissy coat, they’ll shed year-round and heavier when seasons change. You’ll need to brush them regularly and give them the occasional bath.

If your Swissy Mountain Doodle has a Poodle coat, they may not shed, but you will need to do a lot of maintenance. Daily brushing is required to remove tangles and prevent mats. Professional grooming will be needed every 4-6-ish weeks.

In addition to coat care, you will also need to take care of your Swissy Mountain Doodle’s nails, ears, and teeth. If you’re visiting the groomer regularly, they will be able to take care of some it, but you will still need to do some maintenance at home between visits.

Trimming nails once or twice monthly keeps them from growing too long. Ear checks on a weekly basis and carefully cleaning ears as needed helps prevent ear infections. As for dental care, daily brushing or use of an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life.

Greater Swiss Mountain Doodles are high-energy dogs that need a lot of activity and a job to do to be happy and healthy. They will sometimes match their energy level to yours, but will not maintain a lower activity level for long.

Daily walks plus playtime and other activities are usually enough for this dog. But, they will likely be up for more activity if you are. Just make sure you are keeping things low-impact until puppies finish growing to avoid damage to developing bones and joints.

A fully-grown Greater Swiss Mountain Doodle usually stands 22-28 inches tall and can weigh 40-100+ pounds depending on which parent they take after more.

A Greater Swiss Mountain Doodle generally lives for 8-11 years.