Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Shedding: Its Season & Habit

Dealing with greater swiss mountain dog shedding can be challenging, even for seasoned dog owners.

However, with my tips, you can manage their fur, minimize the amount of hair in your living space, and keep your home clean.

Concurrently, you can easily support your four-legged companion over the molting season.

Let’s get started!

Overall On Greater Swiss Mountain

greater swiss mountain dog shedding
SizeLarge dog, typically from 25 to 28 inches tall and from 80 to 110 pounds
Coathick, double coat that can be black, white, and red
TemperamentGentle, loyal, and protective
WeatherHate: hot weather, humid weatherLove: Cool weather
Health concernsHip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat
Exercise needs1-2 hours of exercise per day
Energy levelModerate
Lifespan10-12 years
Cost$1,200-$3,000.

The greater swiss mountain dog is a sturdy large breed. These types of dogs are reputable breeders. They are quite big and robust in size with a high energy level.

So, what is the greater swiss mountain dog temperament?

They have a friendly and gentle personality, making them great family pets. They are generally healthy and have no health problems.

Still, it can be susceptible or at risk to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, splenic torsion, urinary incontinence, and bloat (also known as gastric torsion) – a life-threatening condition. 

Historically, they have a long lineage as a working breed in the Swiss Alps, originally used for herding cattle.

Additionally, they are double coated breeds, which means they have a dense undercoat and thick outer coat that helps protect them from various weather conditions and temperature changes.

What Is The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Shedding Season? 

Spring and fall is when Greater Swiss Mountain dogs undergo a transition in their coat to adapt to changing weather conditions. Regular grooming and daily brushing are important to shed and maintain their coat’s health.

Therefore, dog parents should provide appropriate care during these seasons to keep their coats in good condition.

Understanding Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Shed Habits 

swedish mountain dog

What Causes Greater Swiss Shedding?

Seasonal Changes 

Swiss mountain dogs experience shedding during seasonal changes. It is due to their natural adaptation to different weather conditions.

As the weather shifts, their coat may shed to adjust to temperature variations and prepare for the upcoming season.

Hormonal Factors 

Changes in hormone levels, like during pregnancy or heat cycles in females, can cause more shedding in Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs.

Hormonal fluctuations affect their coat and lead to increased hair loss.

Genetics 

Genetics plays a role in the shedding patterns of Swissies. Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to shed more than others.

If their parents or ancestors had a heavy shedding tendency, it would likely be passed down to them.

Coat Type and Density 

The type and density of the coat also influence shedding. Swissies have a double coat with a protective outer layer and a dense undercoat.

The undercoat, in particular, sheds more during shedding seasons. The thickness and length of their coat can vary among individuals, affecting the amount of shedding.

Health and Nutrition

The overall health and nutrition of Alpine Swiss Dogs can impact shedding. Dogs with poor nutrition or underlying health issues may experience excessive hair loss.

A well-balanced diet, regular or daily exercise, and proper veterinary care contribute to healthy skin and coat, which in turn helps minimize shedding.

How Much Swissy Dogs Shed?

Shed moderately—twice a year.

They will shed a noticeable amount of hair.

However, it is not excessive, like some heavy-shedding popular breeds like Bernese Mountain Dog, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Siberian Husky, etc.

But it is still significant enough to require regular grooming and cleaning. During shedding seasons, you can expect to find loose hair around your home and on their coat.

Can You Stop Greater Mountain Swiss Dog Shedding?

No. You cannot completely stop the shedding of Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs. This is a natural process for dogs to maintain a healthy coat.

However, you can minimize shedding by regularly brushing their coat to remove loose hair and promote a healthier coat.

Additionally, ensuring a balanced diet, proper grooming, and maintaining a clean living environment can help manage shedding to some extent.

Tips To Manage Swedish Mountain Dog Shedding 

What is the most shedding dog

Brushing

Regular brushing is essential to manage shedding. Use a suitable brush or grooming tool to remove loose hair and prevent it from spreading around your home.

Brushing helps distribute natural oils, keeps the coat healthy, and reduces the amount of loose fur.

Food

Providing a balanced and nutritious diet can contribute to a healthier coat.

Ensure your healthy breed’s food contains essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health.

It’s important to maintain a balanced diet for your dog,  but avoid overfeeding.

Some of my friends keep feeding their pets ground beef and rice every day, yet they don’t know that without proper portions, it can cause hidden problems.

 So, I recommend diversifying their meals. You should consult your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog’s needs.

Supplement

Certain supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acid supplements or those containing biotin, can help improve coat quality and reduce excessive shedding.

Consult with your veterinarian to determine if supplements are suitable for your dog and to recommend the appropriate ones.

Upholstery

To manage shedding around your home, consider using washable or removable covers for furniture and bedding.

It makes it easier to clean and remove dog hair. Regularly wash or vacuum these covers to keep them free from accumulated fur.

Vacuum

Frequent floor, carpet, and furniture vacuuming are necessary to remove loose hair.

Use a vacuum cleaner with good suction power and a suitable attachment to capture and remove dog hair effectively. 

Bathe

Bathing your Greater Swiss Mountain Dog as needed helps clean its coat and reduces loose hair. Use a dog-specific shampoo and follow proper bathing techniques.

Firstly, use lukewarm water to wet your dog’s coat thoroughly. Apply a dog-specific shampoo, lather it gently, and massage it into your pet’s coat.

Be careful to avoid getting shampoo in your pet’s eyes, ears, and mouth.

Rinse thoroughly, ensuring no shampoo residue remains. After bathing your dog, gently dry them with a towel or use a blow dryer set on low if comfortable.

Don’t forget to give your dog praise and treats as a reward during bath time.

People often ask me if vinegar is suitable for cleaning their four-legged companions.

Well, you can use vinegar, but it’s important to follow the proper process when bathing a dog in vinegar to achieve the best result.

Remember that excessive bathing can remove natural oils from your dog’s coat.

It’s advisable to consult your veterinarian for guidance on the appropriate frequency of bathing based on your dog’s specific coat type.

FAQs 

Are Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs Hypoallergenic?

No, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs are not hypoallergenic.

Hypoallergenic breeds are less likely to cause allergies in sensitive individuals because they produce fewer allergenic proteins in their skin and saliva. 

However, these canines shed and produce dander, which can trigger allergies in some people.

Regular grooming and cleaning practices may help reduce allergens but can not eliminate them.

Do Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs Bark A Lot?

Yes, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs can bark frequently. They are considered to be a loud bark type and have an instinct to alert their owners and guard their surroundings.

Excessive barking can be minimized with proper training, socialization, and attention to their moderate exercise and mental stimulation needs.

Consistent positive reinforcement and setting clear boundaries can help manage their barking behavior effectively.

What Is The Most Shedding Dog?

Great Pyrenees. They have a dense double coat that sheds much, particularly during seasonal shifts.

Regular grooming, such as brushing, can help manage their shedding. Also, giant breeds like the Siberian Husky, Labrador Retriever, and Germepherd are known for shedding a lot.

Do Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs Smell?

No, Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs do not typically have a strong smell. With regular bathing and proper hygiene, they can maintain a pleasant scent.

That said, like any dog, if not kept clean or if there are underlying health issues, they may develop an odor.

Maintaining their grooming routine and addressing potential health concerns is important to ensure they remain fresh and odor-free.

Conclusion 

That is the Greater Swiss Mountain dog shedding. Even though the molting season can be intimidating if you’ve never had this breed before, don’t let it discourage you.

Remember, more fur means more love. Trust me. You’ll have a fantastic time with these dogs. Just invest a little time in preparation, and everything will be fine.

Author

Photo of author
Hi I am Mitchell. Dog Growth is a blog about dog caring and training where I share my experiences to my community. Hope you enjoy it!

Leave a Comment