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Alpine Spaniel Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Alpine Spaniel so you can get to know the breed more.

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Alpine Spaniel dog profile picture
OriginSwitzerland flagSwitzerland Savoy flagSavoy
Other Names
What other names does the Alpine Spaniel have?
Alpenlandischer SpanielSwiss Alpine Dog
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Alpine Spaniel Size and Weight

Size
Is an Alpine Spaniel small, medium or large dog?

How big do Alpine Spaniel get?

What is the average size of an Alpine Spaniel?

Large
Weight
How much does the Alpine Spaniel weigh? How much should an Alpine Spaniel weight? What is the normal weight of an Alpine Spaniel? How much does a full-grown Alpine Spaniel weight?
88–100 pounds (40-45 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of an Alpine Spaniel?
94 pounds (42.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Alpine Spaniel? Alpine Spaniel height:
24-38 inches (60-96 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of an Alpine Spaniel?
31 inches (78 cm)

Alpine Spaniel Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Alpine Spaniel puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of an Alpine Spaniel in the United States? How much money is an Alpine Spaniel?

Where to buy an Alpine Spaniel with a good pedigree?

Unavailable
Unfortunately the Alpine Spaniel is an extinct dog breed, so there isn’t any available price range or breeder in the world for purchasing this breed.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Alpine Spaniel? How many Alpine Spaniel are there in the world?
Unavailable: This dog breed, unfortunately, is no longer available, it may even be extinct.

Alpine Spaniel Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Alpine Spaniel? Is the Alpine Spaniel breed dumb or smart?
Smart: The Alpine Spaniel dogs have great intelligence. They understand and memorize new commands in 15-25 repetitions.

The Alpine Spaniel is among the smartest dogs in the intelligence ranking.

Trainability
Are Alpine Spaniel dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train an Alpine Spaniel?
Alpine Spaniel dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Watchdog Ability
Is Alpine Spaniel good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Alpine Spaniel dogs are one of the best watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're very consistent in their effort. The best vocal cords and sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're very territorial and protective about their property, so the Alpine Spaniel dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Alpine Spaniel dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Alpine Spaniel dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Alpine Spaniel can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Alpine Spaniel will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Alpine Spaniel Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Alpine Spaniel have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
ProtectiveLoyalTerritorialBrave
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Alpine Spaniel sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Alpine Spaniel dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is an Alpine Spaniel a good family dog?
Average to High: Alpine Spaniel dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Alpenlandischer Spaniel need? Alpine Spaniel social needs:
Alpine Spaniel dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Alpine Spaniel to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Alpine Spaniel roam?
The wanderlust potential of the Alpine Spaniel is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Alpine Spaniel have high prey drive?
Alpine Spaniel dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something. Cats or any other small animals are in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Alpine Spaniel dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Alpine Spaniel Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Alpine Spaniel is a playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Alpine Spaniel dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Alpenlandischer Spaniel bark?
A lot: Alpine Spaniel is a particularly loud breed. They often enjoy barking and howling loudly. If you want a quiet dog, not the best choice.

The main triggers for barking are fear, attention, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking, and defense.

Apartment Friendly
Is Alpine Spaniel good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have an Alpine Spaniel in an apartment?
Not an apartment-friendly dog the Alpine Spaniel breed. If you don't have a garden, think carefully about your decision, keeping Alpine Spaniel indoors can cause a lot of problems.

Alpine Spaniel Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Average: Alpine Spaniel dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can an Alpine Spaniel be left alone? How long can you leave an Alpine Spaniel alone?
Alpine Spaniel dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Alpine Spaniel Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Alpine Spaniel has a hard bite? What is the bite force of an Alpine Spaniel? How much bite force does an Alpine Spaniel have? How strong is an Alpine Spaniel bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Alpine Spaniel bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Alpine Spaniel measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of an Alpine Spaniel is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Alpine Spaniel bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Alpine Spaniel bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train an Alpine Spaniel puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Alpine Spaniel, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Alpine Spaniel bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, an Alpine Spaniel can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Alpine Spaniel bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Alpenlandischer Spaniel? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Alpine Spaniel? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Alpine Spaniel has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Alpine Spaniel do?
Alpine Spaniel dogs have a low tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Alpine Spaniel dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Alpine Spaniel Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Alpine Spaniel dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
The Alpine Spaniel is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Alpine Spaniel breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Alpine Spaniel see the vet?
Average
The Alpine Spaniel should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Alpine Spaniel dogs live? How old can a Alpine Spaniel be? What is the age limit of the Alpine Spaniel? How many years can the oldest Alpine Spaniel live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of an Alpine Spaniel?

How long is the lifespan of an Alpine Spaniel?

12-14 years
The average lifespan of Alpine Spaniel: 13 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers cold weather
The Alpine Spaniel can adapt well to harsh weather conditions, and also can be a good mountain dog. Dogs can suffer from frostbite and hypothermia in extremely cold weather, so it is important to take precautions to keep your dog safe and comfortable during the winter months.

Alpine Spaniel Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Alpine Spaniel have? What is the activity level of the Alpine Spaniel?
Alpine Spaniel dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn't the perfect choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does an Alpine Spaniel need? How much exercise do Alpine Spaniel dogs require per day?

Do Alpine Spaniel dogs need a lot of exercises?

Alpine Spaniel dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Alpine Spaniel breed need?
Alpine Spaniel dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

Alpine Spaniel Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does an Alpine Spaniel need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does an Alpine Spaniel breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Alpine Spaniel? How much food should I feed my Alpine Spaniel?
4 to 5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Alpine Spaniel risk for obesity:
Average: The Alpine Spaniel has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Alpine Spaniel weight regularly.

Alpine Spaniel Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Alpine Spaniel have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
Curly
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Alpine Spaniel coats?
Tan Red Brown
Grooming
How to groom the Alpine Spaniel and how often? How often should I take my Alpine Spaniel to the groomer?
Advanced: The Alpine Spaniel requires a lot of grooming. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer can be helpful sometimes.

Regular brushed dog's coat is less likely to shed. Ears and eyes should be cleaned often to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Occasional dog nail trimming and dog baths are important.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and to give your Alpine Spaniel a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Alpine Spaniel, search for the best dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.
Shedding Level
How much do Alpine Spaniel dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Alpenlandischer Spaniel? Do Alpine Spaniel dogs shed a lot?
Alpine Spaniel dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Alpine Spaniel need a bath? How often should you give an Alpine Spaniel a bath? Can I bathe my Alpine Spaniel every day?
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.

Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Alpine Spaniel breed hypoallergenic?
No
Alpine Spaniel dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Low 🔽

The Alpine Spaniel has a low chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Alpine Spaniel drool?
The Alpine Spaniel is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Alpine Spaniel could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Alpine Spaniel.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Alpine Spaniel Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Alpine Spaniel dogs get along with other pets? Are Alpine Spaniel dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Alpine Spaniel dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Alpine Spaniel temperament with other people:
Alpine Spaniel dogs are stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are Alpine Spaniel dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Alpine Spaniel temperament with children:
Alpine Spaniel dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Alpine Spaniel dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Alpine Spaniel breed live with a cat?
Alpine Spaniel dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Alpine Spaniel good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Alpine Spaniel dogs get along with other dogs?
Alpine Spaniel dogs are very dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Alpine Spaniel can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Alpine Spaniel breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Alpine Spaniel breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Alpine Spaniel dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Alpine Spaniel dogs good office canines? Do Alpine Spaniel dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Alpine Spaniel is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Alpine Spaniel dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Alpenlandischer Spaniel temperament with senior people? Are Alpine Spaniel dogs good for elderly owners?
Alpine Spaniels are usually recommended for elderly people.

Alpine Spaniel As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Alpine Spaniel be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Alpine Spaniel is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Alpine Spaniel be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Alpine Spaniel be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Alpine Spaniel is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Alpine Spaniel be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Alpine Spaniel is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Alpine Spaniel be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Alpine Spaniel is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Alpine Spaniel be a boat dog?

Not really

Alpine Spaniel breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Alpine Spaniel be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Alpine Spaniel is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Alpine Spaniel dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Alpine Spaniel Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is an Alpine Spaniel pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Alpine Spaniel breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Alpine Spaniel: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Alpine Spaniel have in a litter? How many puppies can the Alpine Spaniel breed have for the first time? How many puppies does an Alpine Spaniel have? How many puppies can an Alpine Spaniel give birth to?
5-8 puppies

Alpine Spaniel Recognition

AKC Group
Is Alpine Spaniel recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Alpine Spaniel recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Not recognized by FCI.

Alpine Spaniel Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligent Rank: Smart: The Alpine Spaniel dogs have great intelligence.
  • Trainability: Alpine Spaniel dogs are easy to train.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Alpine Spaniel is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Stinkiness: The Alpine Spaniel has a low chance of bad smell.
  • Watchdog Ability: Alpine Spaniel dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
  • Mouthiness: Alpine Spaniel dogs have a low tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people.
  • Child Friendly: Alpine Spaniel dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Alpine Spaniel dogs are very dog-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Alpine Spaniels are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Alpine Spaniel dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: Alpine Spaniel dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Friendly: Not an apartment-friendly dog the Alpine Spaniel breed.
  • Grooming: Advanced: The Alpine Spaniel requires a lot of grooming.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the Alpine Spaniel is strong enough to escape from home.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: Alpine Spaniel dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
  • Office Friendly: Alpine Spaniel is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Alpine Spaniel History

The Alpine Spaniel finds its origins on the snowy mountains of the Swiss Alps, dating back to the early 1800s.

The dogs were performing a noble task as mountain rescue dogs by the Austin Canons to save and rescue travelers who got lost, injured, or stuck in the harsh climate and the snowy terrain of the mountains. The dogs were also used for searching purposes, because of their scenting abilities, looking for stranded or buried hikers, alerting the rescuers about the location of the injured. Moreover, when the dogs were not climbing high on the mountains, they would help out people in the villages guarding the livestock, herding sheep and cattle, and towing heavy things, if necessary. Despite their name, the Alpine Spaniel was much stronger and larger than the Spaniel breeds we know today. Their coats were also different, it needed to acclimatize to the harsh external conditions while offering the dogs protection.

A male specimen of the Alpine Spaniel, named Barry became famous and honored for his work rescuing people in the early 19th century. It was known throughout the whole regions of the Swiss Alps, that Barry rescued a total of 40 people from the snowy death. There many tales, myths, and rumors about Barry’s heroic actions, and the life he had lived. According to urban legends, either Barry retired by the age of 12 and lived happily ever after on a nice farm, surrounded by loved ones, or that Barry died on his 41st rescue attempt. There is not much documentation left from that period of time, yet based on the local tales about Barry, it is safe to say that the breed was well-esteemed. The body of Barry is thought to have been preserved and modified many times, in order for experts to be able to describe the exact specifications of the Alpine Spaniel.

As people started to notice the Alpine Spaniel’s capabilities in search and rescue, breeders began to mix the breed with others, with the intention of getting an even better rescue dog. Breeders started the breeding processes by crossing the Alpine Spaniel with the Newfoundland, because of their large thick coats. Unfortunately, this breeding mix did not turn out great, for the reason that snow and ice resulted in being frozen into the dogs’ longer and thicker fur. Consequently, these puppies were given to the local villagers. Moreover, because of poor conditions in the villages, accident and disease outbreaks were considered rife. Consequently, around the middle of the 19th century, the Alpine Spaniel is thought to be extinct because of some underlying disease that eventually wiped out all of the purebred specimens of the population. Yet, because of the cross-breeding, two separate variations emerged from the Alpine Spaniel. Today these are known as the Clumber Spaniel and Saint Bernard. Today, the National History Museum holds information on the breed and also has preserved specimens, of what is thought to be the Alpine Spaniel. Nevertheless, there is always new information revealing about the breed, as research projects unfold the DNA left in the archaeological findings.

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Alpine Spaniel Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Nicole

    Jan 21, 2021, 3:34:30 PM:

    Answer to the review on why this breed is extinct. Breed numbers dwindled in the 1830's and an unknown disease wiped them out in the 1840's Pretty cool dogs, sad to know they're extinct.

  • dog good

    Jan 19, 2021, 7:39:54 PM:

    why extinct?