The Barton Family has been wonderful. Jim & Cheri are extremely helpful. They made every attempt to make sure we understood what a commitment the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog would be. On January 15, 2000 we brought home our first swissy and it wasn't long before we wanted another one. We are eagerly awaiting our second puppy from The Barton's and we have not regretted a single minute. Our puppy has a great disposition, he is intelligent and a wonderful companion to our children. We proudly tell everyone he's a BARTON SWISSY !

"Owning a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has been an exciting and fulfilling experience. Our Swissy Dalton has become a beloved member of our family, and we are delighted to see the bond beginning to form between he and our 4 month old daughter developing. She squeals in delight and her face lights up each time he comes over with his wagging tail to see her and gently kisses her hands and her head. He is always calm around her, and he has NEVER shown any aggressive tendencies towards the baby, or anyone else for that matter.

We are 110% satisfied with our decision to adopt a Swissy, as well as with our choice of Jim and Cheri Barton as breeders. The Barton's hold Open Houses usually one time every month where interested people can visit with the dogs and to learn more about the breed. We were hooked from the beginning and visited every open house that they held, not only to get our "swissy fix", but also to visit with the entire Barton Family. The Barton's are truly amazing people who we keep in close contact with even after getting our dog. We still send pictures and movies to update them on Dalton all of the time.

The Barton's breed their Swissy's in a family environment where all members of the Barton household are included in some way or another, and we believe the results speak for themselves. Dalton is a show-quality dog, but much more importantly, a wonderful, loving addition to our family."

Before choosing the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog as our family pet, we had recently lost our Golden Retriever, who had lived twelve years as a member of our family, and we wanted another large dog, but this time with short hair. We saw a program on Animal Planet featuring the Bartons and their Swissies. We felt drawn to them from the beginning, but some of the reported features of the breed were daunting. We had to see them for ourselves. We drove from New York to Maryland, and spent a delightful afternoon with Swissies of all ages. We fell in love with the breed, and we found our breeder in the Bartons.

The dogs were large, but we were impressed with the sociability of each dog we met. The breed is the most handsome, eye catching breed we have encountered. The Bartons made us comfortable and confident with them, and assured us with their competence as breeders. They love their dogs with a great devotion. The decision was easy. We placed our order.

An agonizing year later, we drove again to Maryland and picked up our beloved puppy. We named him Boomer after our late dog's champion grandfather. We chose the "spunky" pup, in favor of a more sedate choice. Our new family member is so loving and sociable, we know we made the right choice. He goes where we go whenever remotely possible. He travels well in the car. He draws attention everywhere, for his handsome appearance, his well proportioned size (130 lbs and growing), and his intelligent, social demeanor. He was easily house trained, and he knows all of our names. His intelligence is extraordinary. Mention a name, and he looks at the person. On walks off leash, Boomer never runs off, but stays with his family without constant re-call. Boomer's bark rattles the windows, but the worst he can do is kiss you. With small children, he is gentle and patient. He seems to recognize who can be played with, and who is fragile. In conclusion, the love which this dog has for our family is evident. He knows when one is absent. He waits at the door at appointed times of return of a family member. He in return is loved by all who meet him. We highly recommend the breed for all ages of children, and as a constant faithful companion and protector.