Shadetree Swiss blog

Chewing and Rock Eating

2006-08-02T19:57:00.000-07:00

I don't think that Swissy puppies are "really" bad chewers as compared to some other breeds, but some seem to have a real affinity to rocks. I used to worry about the rock eating quite a bit, but over the years it just doesn't bother me. They always seem to pass (sooner or later). As for wood chewing, that seems to be much more of an individual dog trait than a "breed" trait. You may try bitter apple or other deterents, but some are just chewers. I have a 6 year old that just did some woodworking herself. Giving an alternative is always a good idea......but dogs will be dogs.
Cathy

Housebreaking your Swissy

2006-07-13T15:40:00.000-07:00

The GSMD can be a very challenging breed to housebreak. This is not because they are lazy or stupid. It is because this breed takes a very long time to get bladder control. Swissys drink tremendous amounts of water and as puppies it goes in one end and out the other. Swissy puppies may wet their crate in their sleep. Even after a trip outside a Swissy puppy may come inside and leave a trail behind them as they play.

Many times this lack of bladder control or incontinence is diagnosed as a bladder infection. Very rarely is that the case. Putting a Swissy puppy on antibiotics to help urinary incontinence is not a wise idea. Swissys that are spayed at a young age are often incontinent for life.

show dogs

2006-07-09T13:46:00.000-07:00

Could you please tell me what qualities you look for that will make a show dog of a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog?