THE
BY PAULA WEBBER PHOTOS PROVIDED BY PAULA WEBBER Sennenhund APPENZELLER
T he Appenzeller Sennenhund hails from the Appenzell region of Swit- zerland. “Sennenhund” refers to “Senn” herders in the Appenzell region of Switzerland. An Appenzell Cattle Dog was first described in a book as a “high-pitch, barking, short haired, med. size, multi- color of a quite even Spitz type, used partly to guard the homestead, partly to herd cattle.” The Swiss Cynological Society (SKG) formed a special commission and fixed the traits of the “Appenzell Cattle Dog,” eight of which were shown at the first international dog show in Winterthur and entered in the new, separate class of Cattle Dogs. HISTORY AND PURPOSE The Appenzeller is a medium-sized breed of dog and one of the four regional breeds of Sennenhund-type dogs, originally kept primarily as a cattle herding dog and a flock guardian. The breed was also used as a draft dog and general farm dog. Appenzellers are known for their affinity to herd and guard, and their tenacity for the task at hand. The Appenzeller Sennenhund Club was founded in 1906 by Prof. Albert Heim who also wrote the first valid breed standard: General Appearance
• Medium-Sized Herding Dog • Strong Molosser-Like Build • Well-Balanced • Agile and Deft • Distinctive Tri-Color Coat • Cheeky Expression
“‘Sennenhund’ refers to ‘Senn’ herders in the Appenzell region of Switzerland.”
A BREED APART FROM THE OTHER SWISS SENNEN BREEDS • The high tail set, the so-called post horn, curled tightly over his back when in motion is unique to the breed. • The proportion of the Appenzeller is slightly longer than tall. • Spitz influence is suspected in the heritage of the Appenzeller, with his tail set and energy level. • The Appenzeller Sennenhund has a more refined head and body than those of his Swiss cousins and is clearly defined as a breed that is quite distinct from the other Swiss Cattle Dogs. • Color variations within the breed include tri-color black or Havana Brown, with each having rust and white markings. • Appenzellers have been recognized in Europe for over 100 years. The Havana Brown as a color has been recognized internationally since 1983.
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