Q&A Entlebuchers

Questions & Answers about Entlebuchers

Are they good family dogs?
They certainly can be. Entlebuchers enjoy the company of people. They quickly become a member of the family, enjoying as many activities as they are allowed to participate in. Frisbee, soccer, hiking, camping, snowball fights, you name it. Prefering to live in the home, the Entlebucher will find an occupied bed and sleep at the foot of it, or on it, if allowed. They are quite devoted to their family and assume the role of guardian. Their watchful eye and excellent hearing make the Entlebucher a fine watchdog. Generally speaking they have a cheerful and pleasant temperament. Socialization of the puppy is important, along with firm obedience training.
How much excersise do they need?
Not recommended for couch potatoes. Entlebuchers can work at herd of cattle all day long and not show signs of being worn out. They love to run and what a beautiful sight it is. An Entlebucher is always up for a game of frisbee. They take great pleasure in walking with their owner. They should receive at least an hour a day that is devoted exclusively to them.
Do they shed?
Yes as do all dogs, besides maybe the Mexican Hairless. Entlebuchers are short haired and have a stiff tight fitting coat. Brushing once a week, will eliminate any loose hairs. In climates with diverse seasonal change, they will "blow their coat", meaning there will be a period of shedding to adjust to the new temperatures. A premium dry Lamb & Rice diet will keep their skin and coat in top shape along with providing balanced nutrition.
Are they Barkers?
If an Entlebucher barks, there is a reason. You will be alerted to any animal or person tresspassing your property. With a deep resounding bark of a large dog, it's voice immediately gives it deserved respect. An excellent watchdog. They will often bark to greet you. They have many voices which they use to communicate with you. They are not indiscriminate barkers and will not sit in the yard and howl like Beagles. Something is going on when you hear an Entlebucher bark.
Do they drool?
Only if you are eating a nice slab of prime rib right in front of them. The have dry mouth glands. No Turner and Hooch here.
What about obedience training?
Entlebuchers enjoy obedience training and are quick learners. They aim to please their master and their comprehension make the experience enjoyable for both dog and master. Classified as a working breed, the Entlebucher enjoys having a job to do. They are excellent herding dogs and are used for pulling carts and sleds. They also perform outstanding in agility training.
Are they hyper-active?
As much as an Entlebucher loves to play, they also know how to behave indoors. This of course is based upon the pup receiving proper guidance and discipline, with regard to the rules of the home, and regular periods of excerise.
What health concerns should I be aware of?
The Entlebucher is an inherently healthy breed, resistant to disease and illness. As with all working dogs, the breeding parents should be x-rayed to detect any potential inherent faults, such a hip dyplasia. There have been cases of eye problems within the breed; PRA and cataracts have been documented. Again precautionary screening of the breeding parents for any eye abnormalities is the best precaution. Health concern links.
Where do I find a breeder?
Back only a few years ago, just a handful of breeders were operating in North America. Currently it is much easier to find a breeder, however every Entlebucher is not created equal. Only those within standards and of excellent health history should be breeding. This is especially important since the gene pool is small on an international level. With the increasing popularity of the breed, sometimes the goal of the buyer is simply to get an Entlebucher and little attention is paid to where they find one. Do your home work when considering where to get your pup.
There are no breeders near me?
Still, this is an extremely rare breed worldwide. Aquiring an Entlebucher most often requires travel, either for you or your puppy. If the breeder you select is with a 4-5 hour drive, it is best if you pick up your puppy. If distance dictates, your puppy may be flown via commerical airlines where restrictions allow for live animal transport. Only allow transport by air if the flight is non-stop. Confirm your breeder has experience in shipping live animals.Sometimes the best decision may not be the closest breeder to you.
What should I know
Foremost is the health history and temperament of the breeding parents. Have they been rated by OFA and what is the rating. "Good" ratings from both parents is desired. A "Fair" and a "Good" is less desirable. A pair rated "Fair" or any dog rated "Poor" or without a rating should not be bred. The OFA is the standard in the United States with PennHip ratings also gaining acceptance. CERF certification should have no abnormalities, including up-lineage with young breeding dogs, as this is the best precaution to hereditary eye problems. With backyard breeding increasing, some will discover in time, often after producing several litters, that their breeding stock is unworthy. Previous puppy buyers can then only hope their pup has not inherited those problems.
What should I expect to pay?
A poorly-bred, improperly raised puppy, no matter how cheap, is NO BARGAIN! Chances are that the parents were not screened appropriately for hereditary defects, that the puppies have had little veterinary care, and that the pups were not given the proper socialization and TLC that is needed to raise a healthy litter of Entle puppies. Vet bills over the life of a dog can far exceed your initial outlay if you end up purchasing a poorly bred pup. First know what you are looking for. Do you want a companion for the family or are you looking to show or breed your dog. You should expect to pay a reasonable price for a sound, healthy, properly raised pet from good lineage sold on a spay/neuter contract. Show quality and breeding prospects typically are higher in price. As of January 2000, prices range between $2000-$4000. For those intent on breeding, keep in mind with an extremely small gene pool, finding a compatible mate may require extensive effort to ensure a proper match.

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