Mentioning “dogs,” the image that often pops into people’s minds is of a loyal, loving, and above all, friendly pet/companion. However, when you mention “Entlebucher Mountain Dog,” the first thing that comes to mind is often completely different. This powerful and fiercely loyal dog has developed quite the reputation! Some picture a snarling beast, others think of a brave guard dog, and the question inevitably surfaces – Is the Entlebucher Mountain Dog aggressive?
You may be shocked to find out that the reputation isn’t entirely accurate. Although historic roots of the breed do trace back to work as herding or livestock guarding dogs in Swiss Alps, which required certain protectiveness and assertiveness, the modern Entlebucher Mountain Dog isn’t as ferocious or aggressive as many make it out to be.
Before delving deeper into the considerable misconceptions about this breed’s temperament, let’s take a little detour and introduce you to the fascinating origins of the Entlebucher Mountain Dog.
Named after the Entlebuch valley in Switzerland where they originated, these dogs belonged to a group known as Sennenhund, which translated means “Swiss Mountain Dogs.” The main job of this group of dogs was herding and driving cattle, pushing them from their pasture in the mountains down to the valley and vice versa.
Accomplishing this task was no easy feat! It required a dog that is determined, energetic, intelligent, and yes – at times – assertive. The Entlebucher Mountain Dog needed to exhibit just the right amount of aggression to move stubborn cows without causing harm effectively.
Are they aggressive, though? Not really. Instead, the Entlebucher is known for its high energy, tireless working spirit, and unwavering loyalty to their families.
To understand the Entlebucher Mountain Dog’s behavior better, we need to see what the breed standard—guidelines defining the ideal characteristics, temperament, and appearance of a breed—says about it:
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is known for being outgoing and confident. It’s a fearless breed with a high sense of loyalty towards its owner and family. However, it’s also reserved with strangers without being overly shy or hostile. They have a keen and active mind, often resulting in their owner needing to stay one step ahead at all times.
Still not convinced that these dogs aren’t naturally aggressive? Well, consider this – the American Temperament Test Society, which conducts temperament testing of popular dog breeds, shows that the Entlebucher Mountain Dogs that were tested had an 85.7% pass rate. This rate is higher than the average pass rate of 83.4% for all breeds tested by the society!
However, it’s important to remember that how a dog turns out is significantly influenced by its upbringing, socialization, and training. The way we shape their experiences and expose them to different stimuli can ultimately influence how they respond in different circumstances. A poorly socialized Entlebucher Mountain Dog may very well turn out to be nervous or defensive, which people may misinterpret as aggression.
You’re curious – “How should I socialize my Entlebucher?”. It’s quite simple, really. Socializing doesn’t mean introducing them to 100 people or dogs within their first few weeks at home. Instead, try to create positive experiences with a few family members and friends, gradually exposing them to different people, environments, and experiences over time.
Training also plays a huge part. The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is an intelligent breed, quick to learn and eager to please. Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats, praises, and petting, to ensure your dog learns to respond positively to commands and instructions.
While the myth that the Entlebucher Mountain dog is a pedal-to-the-metal aggression machine has been debunked, it doesn’t mean they are for everyone. They require a dedicated and active owner who can meet their physical and mental exercise needs. Provided with a loving home, socialization, and effective training, the Entlebucher Mountain Dog can make an excellent family dog who displays none of the ‘aggressive’ reputation it is often burdened with.
In the end, it’s safe to say, negative behavioral traits such as aggression are more about the individual dog and its experiences, rather than the breed itself. The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is no exception. In the right environment and paired with a responsible owner, this breed is loyal, intelligent, and far from aggressive.
Knowing all of this, do you think you can handle an Entlebucher? If yes, consider adopting or rescuing one. They might not be a fit for everyone, but for the right person or family, they can be an unforgettable companion and a forever friend.
