Appenzeller Schilthunde Dog Breed - Facts and Information

Origin
The Appenzeller Schilthund is not officially recognized by any major kennel clubs. We know for sure, that these dogs were actively used for cattle herding in the Swiss Appenzell region since the 19th century.
Back in the days, people preffered farm dogs to be black. One of the reason was, that they were more fearsome, so they would deter any intruders and thieves easier during the day and that they will blend with the shadows in the night, which gives them advantage when protecting its farm and territory.
This was one of the reasons, why the original Appenzeller Schilthund dogs were bred with other dogs in order to achieve black colored coat, which is how the Appenzeller Sennenhund was developed. So simply put, it can be said that the Schilthund is a color type of the Appenzeller Sennenhund which is not officially recognized.

​Appearance
The predominant color of Appenzeller Schilthund is white and they most often have either black or brown spots. Those dogs with brown spots are called as Havanna Braunen and the featured dog in this video is havanna braunen Schilthund. The coat is quite dense and firm with very dense undercoat.
Just like the Sennenhund, even the Schilthund is well known for their four-eyed face. You can clearly see two colored spots above both eyes. They should also have clear markings on the cheeks.
This is strongly built dog with average height around 52 cm, which is 20 inches and weight around 26 kg, which is 57 lbs. Females tend to be slightly smaller than males.
Other than that, the Appenzeller Schilthund should have triangular head, hanging ears that are set forwards, strong tail that is set high, strong and straight limbs. Overall this is very athletically built dog breed.

Temperament
The Appenzeller Schilthund is a typical versatile farmdog. They know how to herd the cattle, but also how to protect the farm. They normally do not have high prey drive or hunting instincts. To be a good farm dog, the Schilthund must have guarding instincts, they must be kind of reserved with strangers, but absolutely loyal to its own family, to its own pack. This is still kind of rustic dog, that is quick to learn and have good sense of observation and natural good driving skills.
On the other hand, this is also very good family dog. The Schilthund is known as relatively easy to train, sensitive, cuddly, loyal, affectionate and kind of gentle dog, that is good with older kids.
The Appenzeller is just and all around dog that will make great worker, but also great friend that will protect its family no matter what. Of course, it is important to say, that this is not a coach potatoe and the Schilthund needs relatively high ammount of exercise every day to stay healthy and happy.