Mountain Dog Breeds: 15 Best Mountain Dog Breeds

Among all of the breeds, the mountain dog breeds stand out in stature and size and athleticism, stamina, and loyalty. All of the mountain breeds are recognized by the American Kennel Club. These canines range from medium to extra-large in size and come from worldwide. They were bred primarily as livestock guardians, working dogs, and mountain rescue dogs. Some of these gentle giants can trace their lineage back thousands of years.

If you are considering adopting a mountain breed, or are just curious, read on a list of some of the more famous mountain breeds based on size, personality, and zest.

Large Mountain Breeds

1. Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese mountain dog is a well-known representative of the Swiss mountain dog breeds. This variety is one of the four Swiss mountain breeds known for its strength and muscular build. It was first developed as an all-purpose, working farm dog used to guard and herd cattle in the Alps of western Switzerland, and they were even trained to pull carts and do light draft work on farms.

The Bernese is large, with the male measuring 25-27 inches tall and the female 23-26 inches tall. Males are generally larger, weighing in around 120 pounds, and females around 75 pounds.

The Bernese is known for its shiny tri-colored coat that consists of a background color of black, with white, red, or brown markings. Their hair coat is thicker and longer than the Great Pyrenees and does require frequent brushing and grooming.

The Bernese mountain dog can make a wonderful canine companion, loving, alert, good-natured, and willing to please and learn new things. Early obedience training is recommended due to their large size and their instincts for guarding livestock and working on the farm. They are natural watchdogs and have succeeded in field trails and cart-pulling competitions. Unlike other herding breeds, Bernese dogs prefer to live indoors with their family but they do require moderate exercise. If you love hiking or the outdoors, the Bernese Mountain dog would make a wonderful companion.

2. The Saint Bernard

In several films, Saint Bernards have been portrayed as loyal, happy-go-lucky creatures known for mountain search and rescue. These dogs are very large, powerful, and muscular dogs. This breed is thought to have been first bred as a watchdog at a monastery in the Swiss Alps in the 11th century.

Male Saint Bernards can range between 28 and 30 inches in height, and weigh between 140 and 180 pounds. Females may range between 26 and 28 inches in height and weigh between 120 and 140 pounds. Like most large breeds, Saint Bernards take longer than smaller breeds to mature and are not considered fully grown until they are 2-3 years old.

Saint Bernards can be either longhaired or shorthaired, with red and white, brown and white, or brindle and white coat colors. Their eyes are typically a bit droopy, and they are known for their big jowls which make for a bit of drooling. Saint Bernards shed twice a year (spring and fall), and regular brushing and grooming can help reduce shedding.

Saint Bernards are loving, friendly, and mellow dogs, but they will protect family members if they believe they are in danger or threatened. The loveable giants are typically gentle and tolerant, making them an ideal breed for families with older children. They are also easy to train because they are very sociable and eager to please; however, they can be stubborn occasionally. As a result, positive reinforcement training works wonders with this pooch.

3. Great Pyrenees

Another well-known breed is the Great Pyrenees mountain dog. This breed is quite ancient, and for hundreds of years, these dogs worked with sheepherders in the Pyrenees Mountains range between Spain and France. Bred as companions and guard dogs, the Great Pyrenees was designated the Royal Dog of France in 1645, and they are known for their devoted yet independent nature. Today, the Great Pyrenees is a popular livestock guard dog for sheep, alpacas, and other herd livestock.

If you are looking for the Great Pyrenees to add to your family, be aware that they do take up quite a bit of room. Male Great Pyrenees dogs average between 25-35 inches in height, averaging around 100 pounds. Females range from 25-30 inches high, and weigh a bit less than the males, about 85 pounds. Like Saint Bernard, the Great Pyrenees may not reach their full size until 2 years of age.

This fuffy canine is large, muscular, and has a thick double coat of fur that is most often white, or white with patches of gray, pale yellow, or tan. The Great Pyrenees is a calm, loving, devoted, and well-mannered dog that makes it ideal for a family. They are known to be gentle, affectionate and loyal, but will not hesitate to protect their family or home. Since the Great Pyrenees was bred to be independent and guard sheep by themselves in mountain valleys, they are by nature independent and may seem stubborn at times. Due to their strong guarding instincts, they are also known to be barkers, raising the alarm if they feel their family or territory is threatened.

4. Newfoundland

The Newfoundland is a large, heavy-coated dog known for its glossy black coat. The breed was first developed in Newfoundland as a working companion to fishermen, and they are legendary for their powerful swimming ability and history of spectacular water rescues.

The “Newfie” male is typically around 28-30 inches tall and ranges in weight from 130-150 pounds. Females are a bit smaller, standing at 26 inches tall and weighing between 100-120 pounds.

Newfoundlands are known for their glossy, thick black coats, but they can come in other colors such as black with white, or brown with white markings. Newfoundlands are loving and make great family dogs. They are intelligent, gentle, and can be protective of family members and children. Because of their size, they do need regular exercise and can make wonderful hiking and exploring companions. If you happen to live in an area near water, the Newfie would be in its element.

5. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is another Swiss mountain breed that was first developed in Switzerland as a multi-purpose farm dog. Like the Bernese, they were trained as draft dogs to pull heavy carts and to help herd dairy cattle. The “Swissy” is a rare breed but can be a wonderful family companion as well as a watchful protector.

The Greater Swiss Mountain dog is large and big-boned like the other mountain breeds. Males are typically 25-28 inches tall and weigh between 130-150 pounds, and females are 24-27 inches tall and weigh between 110-130 pounds.

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has a shorter coat than some of the other mountain breeds, and hair length is usually less than 1-2” long. Because of this, they rarely need their hair trimmed. These dogs have a double coat that insulates them during both the summer and winter months, and it is important to note that this breed is not suited to hot weather.

The Swissy is a happy breed with lots of energy and adores people. They do require regular exercise and make fantastic companions for active and outdoor pursuits. They also make for wonderful agility and draft dogs and are often entered into drafting, herding, obedience, and agility trials.

6. Kuvasz

The Kuvasz was bred as a mountain livestock guardian in Hungary and tasked with the job of protecting flocks of sheep and goats. As the Great Pyrenees, they are typically all white but might vary in shade, and they have a medium-length coat that can vary from straight to wavy or curly.

Kuvasz males can grow up to 30 inches in height and average around 115 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, averaging about 27 inches tall and weighing 80 pounds. Like other large-breed dogs, they mature slowly, fully maturing at about 2 years of age. Because of their size and temperament, these dogs do require room to exercise and play; however, they are comfortable being around their humans or just lounging on the couch.

Because the Kuvasz was bred to be a guard dog, it can be suspicious of strangers and protective of family and territory. The Kuvasz have an independent nature, but they love to please, and they can be wonderful companions with sufficient socialization.

7. Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff is another intelligent, independent mountain breed known for its protectiveness, extreme loyalty, and love for his family. Bred to be a guard dog for villages in the mountains of Tibet, this variety is independent and suspicious of strangers and may be prone to barking when alarmed.

The Tibetan has a characteristic heavy coat and a bushy tail that curves over his back, and both males and females can weigh between 80-150 pounds. Unlike some other mountain breeds, this breed does not necessarily require a lot of exercises but does enjoy walks and hikes.

Because of their fiercely protective nature, Tibetan Mastiffs are not recommended for families with young children unless they have received sufficient socialization and training. These dogs are independent thinkers, and due to their protective nature, they do not like discord or unrest within the home. Although a Tibetan Mastiff may not be for everyone, this breed is extremely loyal and protective.

8. The Leonberger

The Leonberger is a fluffy-coated, large and powerful mountain breed of German origin. They are very gentle, patient and adore human companionship. Bred to be watchdogs and working dogs, Leonbergers are known for their intelligence and loyalty.

Males can be around 31 inches tall and weigh up to 150 pounds, and females are a bit smaller in height and can weigh up to 130 pounds. This breed is known for its lush coat and lion-like mane around the neck. They come in several different colors: red, yellow, sandy, and mahogany.

The Leonberger is a lively breed, intelligent, courageous, and affectionate. They are very loving, friendly, stable, and calm and possess incredible patience, even with the most rambunctious children. The Leonberger does not need a lot of exercise; however, they do love going on walks and hikes with their humans. They love to be included in any family outing and can adaptable to almost any situation.

9. Caucasian Shepherd Dog

The Caucasian Shepherd Dog (also known as the Caucasian Ovcharka) is another large mountain breed developed as a livestock guardian dog in the Caucasus region of Armenia, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Dagestan. These dogs were originally bred as livestock guardians and watchdogs for villages and herding communities. They are known for their fearless and confident nature, a plus when acting as a protector.

Caucasian Shepherds are quite large, with males ranging in size up to 220 pounds and females around 100 pounds. They come in a variety of colors, such as black, fawn, cream, grey and white, and are known for their thick, furry coats and fluffy tails.

The Caucasian Shepherd dog is an intelligent, independent guardian breed, and when he senses a threat, he will be very protective and sound the alarm. This breed is devoted, gentle, and kind as a family dog, making it a potentially wonderful family dog. Caucasian shepherds do not require a lot of exercise, but they do enjoy daily walks and playing with family members.

10. Anatolian Shepherd

Another large mountain dog is The Anatolian Shepherd. This livestock guardian dog originated from modern-day Turkey and is known for its intelligence, patience, and protective instincts. Like the other mountain varieties, the Anatolian is athletic, strong, and does best when he does a job.

This breed ranges from 27-31 inches tall, and the males can weigh up to 150 pounds. Females tend to be slightly smaller and weigh between 88 and 120 pounds. This breed comes in several colors, such as white, brindle, fawn, liver, and red, and they have a characteristic curly tail. The Anatolian hair coat is shorter than that of the Great Pyrenees and other mountain dogs but can require regular brushing.

The Anatolian is intelligent, independent, loyal, and can be a fantastic, loving family dog with appropriate training and socialization. If you are in the market for an Anatolian Shepherd, keep in mind that this breed is a working breed, and does best with require regular exercise and mental stimulation.

11. The Karakachan

The Karakachan is another livestock guardian dog that was used for centuries by nomadic shepherds of Bulgaria, where the breed originated. Considered one of Europe’s oldest breeds, the Karakachan is known for its intelligence, loyalty, patience, and protective nature.

The Karakachan male ranges in height from 25-30 inches and can weigh up to 120 pounds. The females range from 24-27 inches in height and can weigh up to 99 pounds.

The Karakachan dog is robust and stout, and like the Newfoundland, has a thick, fluffy coat that comes in a variety of colors, from black, black and white, to brown and white. Because the Karakachan is a herding dog, it can be very territorial and protective of its flock and family. Karakachans can make great family pets if properly socialized, trained, and exercised; however, they are not ideal for apartment or city living and are not recommended for first-time owners.

12. Estrela Mountain Dog

Another large-sized mountain dog is the Estrela Mountain Dog. This breed originated in the Estrela Mountains of Portugal and was developed to guard herds and farm property.

This male Estrela ranges in height from 26-29 inches and weighs between 90-110 pounds. The females are a bit shorter at 24-27 inches tall and weigh between 66-88 pounds. This breed looks similar to the Leonberger and also sports a lush, thick coat of hair that comes in various colors from fawn to grey and brindle.

This breed is known for its intelligent and protective nature and can be an inseparable family companion. The Estrela can be distrustful of strangers, but a devoted, loyal, and loving companion to his humans. As with many of the other mountain dogs, Estrelas can be independently-minded at times but are very dedicated to family members.

READ MORE: The Best Dog Food For Large Breed, According to Veterinarian

Medium Mountain Dogs

13. Entlebucher Mountain Dog

Unlike the other breeds discussed above, the Entlebucher Mountain Dog (or the Entlebucher Sennenhund) is a medium-sized herding dog and is the smallest of the Swiss mountain dogs. Although this breed is smaller than its counterparts, it makes up for its work ethic and powerful athleticism.

Males can grow up to 21 inches in height, and females up to 20 inches. Both males and females range in weight from 45 to 65 pounds.

The Entlebucher was bred as a cattle herding dog, has a solid and compact physical appearance, with a black tricolor coat with symmetrical white markings on the face, chest, or feet. These canines have rounded triangular ears which hang down on either side of the head and alert dark-brown eyes.

This breed loves people and may do best with older children because of its size and energetic nature. As a working dog, the Entlebucher is naturally very active and happiest when hiking, running, or competing in agility trials. They also make excellent therapy dogs and are up for just about any task. These canines are innate watchdogs and will bark if their family or territory is threatened. If you are looking for a solid, energetic breed, then the Entlebucher is an excellent choice. Needs a lot of exercises.

14. Appenzeller Mountain Dog (Appenzeller Sennenhund)

Another medium-sized mountain dog is the Appenzeller mountain dog. The canines are the rarer Swiss mountain dog and look like a smaller version of the Bernese mountain dog. These strong and sturdy pups were, bred for working on farms in the Swiss Alps and keeping watch over herds of cattle.

This breed ranges in size from 18-23 inches in height and weighs between 50-70 pounds. Like the other Swiss mountain breeds, the Appenzeller Sennenhund has a heavy build and a characteristic tri-color coat.

The Appenzeller Sennenhund is very athletic, loyal, and strong. Bred as working and guard dogs, this breed can be very protective of its family. Dogs of this breed require lots of exercise, training, and, most importantly, a job. If you live in an apartment, this breed may not be the best choice as it needs plenty of space to run and play. However, they are wonderful and loyal companions for active owners and families. They also love children but may tend to herd them without proper training.

READ FULL ARTICLE: All About Appenzeller Sennenhund

15. Formosan Mountain Dog

This medium-sized mountain breed was developed as a guardian dog for farming and herding communities in the mountains of Taiwan. This breed is known to bond closely with one family member, although they can be socialized and trained to get along with children.

The male Formosans top at 20 inches in height and weigh around 40 pounds, and the females 19 inches tall and 35 pounds. This breed is short-haired, has vertically-placed ears, and comes in white, brown, and black coat colors.

The Formosan can be reserved towards strangers but a fearless family protector. They love spending time with their humans and enjoy daily interaction, exercise, and socialization. One thing to consider is that this breed is very energetic and tends to have a very high prey drive, so they may not be best for city-living.

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