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The Breed FAQ´s Fila Photogallery (german)

FAQs: Frequently asked Questions

Bitch or Dog?

A dog is slightly larger than the bitch (44-50 cm shoulder height) and always heavier. During training it must be made clear to him who is the master (the leader of the pack) as he will otherwise develop ambitions to take over this rôle. It is said that dogs are even more affectionate than bitches. When walking with the dog, he will frequently lift his leg to mark his terrritory and to signal his presence to bitches. If there is a bitch on heat in the area, taking the dog for a walk can become a test for one’s patience.

The bitch is somewhat smaller (40-48 cm shoulder height) and lighter. She will come on heat twice a year, generally in Spring and in Autumn. To protect carpets she can wear a specially designed pair of “pants“ during these weeks. When walking the bitch on heat, meetings with dogs can be pretty adventurous. The bitch must be kept on the lead and the owner must be extremely attentive to ensure that the bitch is not mated. Some dog owners decide to have the bitch neutered and this should be carried out whilst young (before? or after the first heat). The dog’s temperament is hardly affected and the danger of developing uterine tumours is elimated. However, the operation means a considerable change for the bitch and is neither without risk nor is it cheap.

At the end of the day, the decision between a dog or a bitch depends on personal preferences and it is not possible to give a general recommendation. In any case, it can be said that both have advantages.

How lively is the Entlebucher?

An Entlebucher is certainly not an indolent dog, but he is not overactive. He loves to play and has an enormous amount of stamina. He is a bundle of energy with unsuspected vigour. He is great fun and full of wit and cannot easily be tricked. He is not a watchdog to be feared, however through his deep bark and fearless manner, he can be quite impressive. If he is used as a working dog on a farm, he will always be concentrated and carries out his tasks independently. Our bitch, for example, often helps to herd the cattle back into the stall. She knows exactly where each cow has its place and any cow who does not obey her will be encouraged to do so by a nip in the leg, whereby the Entlebucher reacts very quickly if the the cow kicks.

Can an Entlebucher be kept in a flat?

Yes, the Entlebucher does not need excessive exercise. Moreover, the breed does not moult excessively nor smell too strongly and the coat does not attract dirt. This means that it is not problematic to keep the dog in a flat.

How long can the Entlebucher be left alone?

Entlebucher are very attached to their owner or family and are not dogs who can be left alone for a long time. However, 2 or 3 hours are not a problem at all if the dog is made accustomed to this gradually.

Which Illnesses or Problems are Common to the Breed?

Only a few: a genetic break in the tail (these dogs are excluded from breeding); susceptibility to inflammation of the eyes (avoid draughts!), HD (Hip Displasia), PRA (Progressive retinal atrophy).
Some Entlebuchers develop a genetic amblyopia or PRA. This causes night blindness in older dogs and may lead to general bad eyesight and, in the worst cases, to complete blindness. Vets, who have expertise in this area, will be able to diagnose PRA in its early stages.

What is the Life Expectancy of an Entebucher?

High life expectancy – approximately 12.

How difficult is it to train an Entebucher?

It is not difficult if the general rules for training a dog are observed. The attentiveness and obedience of the breed help him to understand quickly what is expected of him.

What can I do with my dog when I go on holiday?

Of course, the best thing is to chose a holiday destination where you can take your dog. The Entlebucher is flexible in Summer and in Winter, in the mountains or at the sea, and will soon become accustomed to new surroundings. However, if circumstances do not allow, there are a number of boarding-kennels, which will look after the dog and take him for walks. We also offer this service for dogs we have bred and others. Please enquire.

Does the Entlebucher moult?

Hardly. The short coat means that the dogs hardly lose hair. There is a short moulting period in the Spring when the dog gets his Summer coat and in the Autumn.

What about the smell?

Fortunately there is little smell – even after a walk in the rain.

How do Entlebuchers get on with Children?

Wonderfully well! They love children and love playing with them. However, the responsible dog owner will never leave a baby or toddler alone with a dog. Children should also learn that dogs may snap if teased.

How do Entlebuchers get on with other Animals?

The Entlebucher is a farming animal and therefore used to living with other dogs and animals. If a young Entlebucher grows up with cats, other dogs and other animals, living together will not be a problem. The Entlebucher has no hunting instinct.

What and how much does the Entlebucher eat?

One has to watch that the Entlebucher does not become too fond of eating. Especially if a dog is kept in a flat and does not have as much exercise as on a farm, the owner should watch that the dog does become overweight. The Entlebucher is not fussy with food and digests well. It is a matter of preference, whether one chooses to feed industrially produced dog-food (dry feed or tins) or to mix meat and flakes. Dog owners should try out what suits them and their dog best.

What can one do with an Entlebucher?

Go for long and short walks, mountain climbing, (cycling and marathons are, however, not good for the dogs), Agility, general canine sports (hide and seek; fetching a ball is good; fetching sticks is not so good as there is a danger of injury), cuddling, stroking, practising commands (z.B. Sit!, Lie!, Stay!, Out! Bark! Come!) or simply having fun with the dog (You will be amazed at the ideas the dog may have!).


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