Leonberger

Vital Statistics:

Place of Origin: Germany

Group: Working dog

Height: males 28 1/2-31 1/2 in., females 25 1/2-29 1/2 in.

Weight: 90-170 lbs.

Life span: 9-15 yrs.

Trainability: high

Good with children: yes

Good with other pets: yes, with early socialization

What is the origins of the Leonberger?

Named for the city of Leonberg in Germany, the Leonberger is a result, in the 1840s, of a German breeder’s desire for a large, lion-like dog. The Leonberger is primarily bred from the St. Bernard, the Newfoundland and the Great Pyrenees.

What does the Leonberger look like?

The Leonberger is a huge dog, height for males 28 1/2-31 1/2 inches, females, 25 1/2-29 1/2 inches, weight can be from 90-170 lbs. The medium size eyes are almond-shaped and light brown to very dark brown. Ears are set high, pendant and hang close to the head. The full tail hangs straight down with a slight curve when the dog is active. The coat is slightly coarse and very long with a thick undercoat. The neck hair forms a mane. Colors are lion yellow, red, reddish brown, fawn and cream and all combinations, but always with a black mask and nose. The Leonberger needs daily or every other day brushing to control shedding.

What is the temperament of the Leonberger?

Another gentle giant, the Leonberger considers colts as playmates. When they are trained and socialized early, Leonbergers do well with other animals, may even feel the need for a companion animal. Although they are very fond of children, because of their size, they should be supervised with youngsters. The Leonberger is very affectionate, loyal and devoted to its humans. Keep in mind, with a dog this massive, precious items on tables may not survive its wagging tail. This active dog needs a minimum of an hour’s daily exercise.

What are the uses of the Leonberger?

The list of activities of this dog is endless. It has been used to herd livestock, in water rescue, tracking, as a watchdog. The Leonberger can do anything from pulling carts to swimming to use as a therapy dog. The Leonberger makes an excellent watch/guard dogs. It is a stable, loving family dog.

Possible Health Issues

Hip/elbow dysplasia, osteochondritis dissecans, panosteitis, cataracts, entropion, ectropion, polyneuropathy (neurological disease), Addison’s Disease, hypthyroidism, bloat/gastric torsion, cancer.