Laravel

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, also referred to as a GSMD or a Swissy, originated in the Swiss Alps. There are several theories surrounding the origin of this breed. The most popular theory posits that they are descendants of the Molosser, which is a large, ancient mastiff-type of dog. The Molosser was a popular war dog for ancient armies and it’s theorized that they were brought into the Alps more than 2,000 years ago when the Roman Legions invaded. These ancient dogs mated with indigenous dogs to make several dog breeds, including the one we now refer to as the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. They are also closely related to the Bernese Mountain Dog.

GSMDs were used primarily as farm and pasture dogs and guard dogs. Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs, or Swissies, functioned as all-purpose farmhands for Swiss dairymen and herders. They were also commonly used to pull carts full of meat and dairy to the market. The breed fell out of popularity as its work was taken on by machines and other breeds, but it experienced a surge in popularity in the early 1900s when it was rediscovered. The breed was first recognized internationally in 1939 and was brought to the United States for the first time in 1968. The American Kennel Club fully recognized the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog in 1995 as part of the Working Group.