Is the Swissy the “ideal family dog” as portrayed on television and in books?
While the Swissy can become an excellent family companion, no dog is just born that way! They, like other dogs, require extensive socialization and training to become a well mannered canine family member. Socialization must include early and frequent exposure to all manner of people and situations so that they learn how to properly interact with all ages of people and react to varied sights and sounds. Additionally, the Swissy is a very social breed and needs frequent interaction with their family. They will not be content confined in the backyard with the only family contact coming at feeding time and an occasional play time. Swissys must be kept as members of the family and included in the family’s ongoing activities. A Swissy which is excluded from this type of interaction can become excessively shy or possibly aggressive toward people.
