Swiss Hound
The Swiss Hound is a dog that combines elegance, nobility, and a deeply rooted passion for hunting. Although it is a traditional working breed, known for its excellent endurance, keen sense of smell, and characteristic melodious voice, it is also a highly social and family-oriented dog — a true companion in every sense of the word. In everyday life, Swiss Hounds are incredibly devoted, friendly, and affectionate companions who quickly win the hearts of the whole family.
The Swiss Hound is a medium-sized dog with an elegant build, long drooping ears, and a noble expression. Historically, the breed was developed for hunting in demanding mountainous terrain, which makes it remarkably hardy and resilient.
Temperament and behaviour: Swiss Hounds are kind, well-balanced, and highly sociable dogs. They are usually exceptionally friendly towards people and children and are not naturally aggressive.
Working Ability: They have an excellent sense of smell and are very vocal when working a trail — they quite literally "sing".
Care and exercise needs: Various sources may suggest that Swiss Hounds require a great deal of exercise, but this is not entirely the case. They are certainly not comparable, for example, to some highly active hunting breeds that genuinely need intensive daily exercise. A Swiss Hound will enjoy any walk just as much as a quiet day relaxing in an armchair. Generally speaking, they do not require any special care and are a very undemanding breed. Their short coat needs almost no maintenance.
The Swiss Hound comes in four colour varieties. Although they share the same breed standard in terms of conformation and temperament, they differ in coat colour and historical background.
Lucerne Hound (Lucernois)
The Lucerne Hound immediately stands out with its attractive and unmistakable appearance. Its characteristic bluish colouring is created by a mixture of black and white hairs, complemented by black patches and tan markings above the eyes, on the cheeks, and on the legs.
It is generally considered a very lively and sensitive dog, with a strong attachment to its owner.
Pros and Cons:
+ Unique and elegant appearance
+ Exceptional loyalty and a gentle nature towards the entire family
+ Excellent compatibility with other dogs and even cats :-)
– Strong hunting instinct, requiring consistent recall training
Jura Hound (Jurassien)
The Jura Hound has the most robust and natural appearance of all the Swiss Hound varieties. Its typical colouring is black and tan, with tan markings above the eyes, on the cheeks, and on the legs.
It is generally described as a highly hardworking, resilient, and somewhat more serious dog with an excellent sense of smell.
Pros and Cons:
+ Exceptional working endurance and resilience
+ Calm and stable temperament
+ Loyal and protective companion
– Can be more independent when working
– Needs clear boundaries and regular, purposeful activity
Bernese Hound (Bernois)
The Bernese Hound is probably the best-known and most widespread variety.
Its typical colouring consists of a white base with black patches or a black saddle, complemented by light to dark tan markings above the eyes and on the cheeks, creating its characteristic tricolour appearance.
It is a friendly, attentive, and highly adaptable dog with a gentle expression.
Pros and Cons:
+ Attractive tricolour coat
+ Even-tempered and calm nature in the home
+ Excellent with children
– May be inclined to follow a scent when off lead in the countryside
– Can be more vocal when bored
Schwyz Hound (Schwyzois)
The Schwyz Hound has a particularly gentle and elegant appearance thanks to its light colouring, with a white base and orange to reddish-brown patches or a saddle.
It is considered a very gentle, friendly, and biddable dog that does not respond well to harsh handling.
Pros and Cons:
+ Very gentle and biddable temperament
+ An excellent companion for active individuals and families
– Sensitive to its environment and to the owner's approach, so it needs kind and patient guidance
– Requires a higher level of physical activity