Appenzeller Livestock Breeds

The Appenzeller Mountain Dog, nowadays an endangered breed, is descended from the farm dogs that were used in ancient times as guard and cattle dogs. It was not until the start of the 20th century that people began to develop a pure breed medium-sized dog with a tricolour coat. According to its critics, the so-called «Bläss» is even fiercer than the sharp-tongued natives of Innerrhoden.

Its character has been shaped by centuries of working in alpine regions. It is high-spirited and possesses plenty of stamina. The «Bläss» is a keen observer and an uncomplicated, weather-resistant, faithful and generally healthy companion. However, it does tend to be mistrustful of strangers. It is a born guardian and protector of its home and family. Increasingly popular as a companion dog, it is also very suitable as a guide dog for the blind and a mountain rescue dog.

The Appenzeller Goat is a particularly endearing – and stubborn – local breed that is also threatened by extinction. It is primarily a source of milk and meat but many farmers today keep Appenzeller goats as a labour of love. The goat is bred hornless, has long white hair and is an extremely agile mountain climber. Typical for the breed is the beard on the chin. It can produce up to 700 kg of low-fat, easily digestible milk each year.