Welsh Terrier vs Greater Swiss Mountain Comparison. Which dog is better for you: WT or Swissy?
Compare the Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a WT or a Swissy? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you
Other names
Welshie, WT
Swissy, Great Swiss Mountain Dog
Weight
What is the average weight of Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain?
19.5 pounds
( 9 kg )
122.5 pounds
( 56 kg )
Height
What is the average height of Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain
14.0 inches
( 35.6 cm )
26.5 inches
( 67.3 cm )
Weight Gain Potential
Which breed eats more: Welsh Terrier or Greater Swiss Mountain?
Welsh Terrier has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.
Greater Swiss Mountain has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.
Hypoallergenic
Are Welsh Terriers or Greater Swiss Mountains hypoallergenic, or neither?
Yes
While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Welsh Terriers are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.
No
Unfortunately, the Greater Swiss Mountain is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.
Temperament
What are the personalities of Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain dogs?
Do Welsh Terriers shed more than Greater Swiss Mountains, or which breed sheds more, Welsh Terriers or Greater Swiss Mountains?
Welsh Terrier or Greater Swiss Mountain will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.
Watchdog Ability
Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Welsh Terrier or Greater Swiss Mountain?
Welsh Terriers are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.
Choose a Greater Swiss Mountain if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.
Origin
What is the origin of Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain dog breeds?
Wales
Switzerland
Ancestry
What are the origins of Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain breeds?
old english black and tan terrier
Roman Mastiff
Date of Birth
When were Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain breeds first developed?
1700s
Ancient Times
Eye Color Possibilites
What are the eye colors of Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain dogs?
Brown
Hazel Brown Amber
Nose Color Possibilites
What are the natural nose colors of Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain?
Black
Coat Color Possibilites
What are the natural colors of the coat for Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain breeds?
Black Brown
Black Brown White
Coat Length
What is the typical coat length for Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain breeds?
Welsh Terriers have medium-length coats.
Greater Swiss Mountains have coats that can be either short or medium in length.
Coat Density
What is the density of the coat of Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain?
Coat Texture
What is the hair texture of Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain?
Wiry
Straight
Litter Size
What is the usual litter size for Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain?
10-14 puppies per pregnancy
A Welsh Terrier can have a litter of 10-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
10-12 puppies per pregnancy
A Greater Swiss Mountain can have a litter of 10-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
Adaptability
Welsh Terriers are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.
Greater Swiss Mountains have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.
Health Issues
Between Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain, which breed is more prone to health problems?
Welsh Terriers are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.
While the Greater Swiss Mountain breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.
Major Concerns
What are the major health concerns for Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain breeds?
Usually A Very Healthy Breed
Gastric Torsion Hip And Elbow Dysplasia Osteochondritis Dissecans
Minor Concerns
What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain?
What occasional tests are recommended for Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain breeds?
Eye Blood Test Heart Eye Examination Physical Examination
Eye Hip Elbow X-Rays Physical Examination
Energy
How do the energy levels of Welsh Terriers and Greater Swiss Mountains compare?
Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain breeds are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.
Social Needs
Welsh Terrier vs Greater Swiss Mountain social needs comparison
Welsh Terrier has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.
Greater Swiss Mountain has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.
Exercise Needed
Welsh Terrier vs Greater Swiss Mountain exercise need comparison.
Welsh Terriers require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.
Greater Swiss Mountains need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.
Sleeping Need
Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Welsh Terrier or Greater Swiss Mountain?
Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain are active dogs that may not require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more/less, Welsh Terrier or Greater Swiss Mountain?
The Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.
Tendency to Bark
Do Welsh Terriers or Greater Swiss Mountains bark more/less frequently?
Welsh Terrier dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.
Greater Swiss Mountain dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.
Territorial
Is the Welsh Terrier or Greater Swiss Mountain a better guard dog?
These breeds are known for being extremely protective and make excellent guard dogs. They possess a strong instinct to defend their territory and owners and have a high level of vigilance and alertness.
Mouthiness
Mouthiness Comparison: Welsh Terrier vs Greater Swiss Mountain?
Roaming urge
Welsh Terrier vs Labrador: Running away tendency?
Prey Drive
Welsh Terrier or Greater Swiss Mountain - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?
Past times
What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain entertained?
Which breed has higher energy, Welsh Terriers or Greater Swiss Mountains?
Medium
Both Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.
Tolerance of being left alone
Walks per Week
How many miles should Welsh Terrier or Greater Swiss Mountain walk each week?
7 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Welsh Terrier, it's at least 7 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
12 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Greater Swiss Mountain, it's at least 12 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
Activity per Day
Do Welsh Terriers or Greater Swiss Mountains require more exercise?
30 minutes
In general most Welsh Terriers usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.
60 minutes
In general most Greater Swiss Mountains usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.
Grooming
Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Welsh Terriers or Greater Swiss Mountains?
Welsh Terriers require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.
The Greater Swiss Mountain is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.
Brushing Frequency
What is the recommended brushing frequency for Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain dogs?
Weekly
Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain should be brushed at least once a week. Of course, you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot.
Brushing Tools
What brushing tools are used for Welsh Terriers and Greater Swiss Mountains?
Slicker Brush Comb Deshedder Nail Clipper
Pin Brush Slicker Brush Nail Clipper
Cups
How much food should be given to Welsh Terrier or Greater Swiss Mountain in cups?
1.8 cups
For an average 17-22 pound (8 - 10 kg) Welsh Terrier feed 1.8 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.
4.5 cups
For an average 115-140 pound (52 - 64 kg) Greater Swiss Mountain feed 4.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.
Daily Cost
Which breed has a higher daily cost, Welsh Terrier or Greater Swiss Mountain?
$1.70 - $2.00 / day
The average cost of a Welsh Terrier is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.
$4.20 - $4.90 / day
The average cost of a Greater Swiss Mountain is somewhere $4.20 - $4.90 per day.
Monthly Cost
Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Welsh Terrier or Greater Swiss Mountain?
$48 - $63 / month
The average per month expenses of a Welsh Terrier is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.
$126 - $147 / month
The average per month expenses of a Greater Swiss Mountain is between $126 - $147. This makes an average of $1512 - $1764 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.
Intelligence
Comparing Intelligence: Welsh Terriers vs Greater Swiss Mountains
Welsh Terriers are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.
Greater Swiss Mountain has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.
Sensitivity Level
How do Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain compare in sensitivity?
Welsh Terriers have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.
This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.
Affection Dependance
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Welsh Terrier vs Greater Swiss Mountain?
Apartment Friendly
Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Welsh Terrier or Greater Swiss Mountain?
The Welsh Terrier is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.
Greater Swiss Mountains can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.
Child Friendly
Do Welsh Terriers or Greater Swiss Mountains have a friendlier temperament towards children?
Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.
Senior-friendly
Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Welsh Terrier or Greater Swiss Mountain?
Cat Friendly
Do Welsh Terrier or Greater Swiss Mountain breeds have a better compatibility with cats?
Welsh Terriers are not cat friendly.
Greater Swiss Mountains are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.
Dog Friendly
Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Welsh Terrier or Greater Swiss Mountain?
Welsh Terriers are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.
Greater Swiss Mountains are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.
Pet friendly
How do Welsh Terrier or Greater Swiss Mountain dogs interact with other pets?
Stranger Friendly
Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Welsh Terrier or Greater Swiss Mountain?
Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish, so early socialization is key to ensure they are comfortable around new people.
Playfulness
Which breed is more playful between Welsh Terrier and Greater Swiss Mountain?
Welsh Terriers are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.
Greater Swiss Mountains have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.
Trainability
How do the trainability levels of Welsh Terriers and Greater Swiss Mountains compare?
Welsh Terriers are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.
Greater Swiss Mountains are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.
