The Leonberger is a large, powerful, and elegant dog with a distinctive lion-like mane and a black mask.

Males

Males

Double coat; medium-long, water-resistant outer coat with a thick undercoat

Lion-yellow, golden to red-brown, sand, with a black mask

Deep, rectangular, with a pronounced stop

Long, well-furnished, hanging straight down when relaxed, slightly curved when alert

Leonbergers are known for their calm, gentle, and friendly temperament, making them excellent family companions.

Deeply devoted to their families and enjoy close contact.

Known for their patience and tolerance, especially with children.

Form strong bonds and are protective of their loved ones.

Quick learners, but can be independent thinkers.

Self-assured and stable, not easily provoked.

While generally calm, they have a playful side, especially as puppies.

Leonbergers are best suited for experienced dog owners with ample space and time to dedicate to training and exercise.

Relatively calm indoors.

Shedding can be heavy.

The ideal Leonberger owner is an experienced, patient individual or family who can provide a loving home with plenty of space, consistent training, and regular exercise. They thrive in environments where they are an integral part of the family.

Leonbergers require regular grooming due to their thick double coat, a balanced diet, and a spacious living environment.

Brush several times a week, daily during shedding season (spring and fall), to prevent mats and tangles.

Bathe only as needed, usually every few months, to avoid stripping their coat of natural oils.

Feed a high-quality dog food formulated for large breeds, portioned appropriately to prevent overfeeding and obesity.

Ideally suited to homes with yards, but can adapt to apartment living if provided with sufficient exercise.

Trim nails regularly, usually every few weeks, to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.

Check and clean ears weekly to prevent infections.

Leonbergers are intelligent but can be independent, requiring consistent, positive training. They need moderate daily exercise to stay healthy and happy.

Leonbergers respond best to positive reinforcement methods, such as praise, treats, and play. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial to manage their size and independent nature. Consistency and patience are key, as they can be sensitive to harsh training methods. Short, engaging training sessions are more effective than long, repetitive ones.

Leonbergers require moderate daily exercise, about 60 to 90 minutes, to maintain their physical and mental well-being. This can include long walks, jogging, hiking, or swimming. They also enjoy activities that challenge their minds, such as puzzle toys or obedience training. Due to their size, providing adequate space for them to move around is important.

Expose your Leonberger puppy to various sights, sounds, people, and dogs from a young age.

Use treats, praise, and play to motivate and reward good behavior.

Establish clear rules and boundaries, and consistently enforce them.

Provide puzzle toys and interactive games to keep their minds engaged.

Protect their developing joints by avoiding strenuous exercise until they are fully grown.

Leonbergers are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions.

A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis and pain.

Similar to hip dysplasia, but affecting the elbow joint.

A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists, trapping gas and cutting off blood supply.

A type of bone cancer that is more common in large and giant breeds.

A group of inherited neurological disorders that affect the nerves.

The Leonberger breed was created in the 1840s in Leonberg, Germany, by Heinrich Essig. He aimed to create a dog that resembled the lion on the town crest. Essig reportedly crossed a Landseer Newfoundland with a St. Bernard, later introducing a Pyrenean Mountain Dog. The breed quickly gained popularity among European royalty. World Wars I and II decimated the breed's numbers, but dedicated breeders worked to re-establish the Leonberger. The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the breed in 2010.

With proper socialization from a young age, Leonbergers can get along well with cats. However, their size and potential prey drive should be considered, and introductions should always be supervised.

Leonbergers are not excessive droolers compared to some other giant breeds, but they can drool, especially after drinking or eating.

Leonbergers are not typically excessive barkers. They may bark to alert their owners to something unusual, but they are generally not nuisance barkers.

Leonbergers, with their thick double coats, are better suited to cooler climates. In hot weather, provide them with plenty of shade, water, and air conditioning, and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest parts of the day.

The average lifespan of a Leonberger is 7-9 years, although some may live longer with proper care.

Leonbergers are not as common as some other breeds, so finding a reputable breeder may require some research and patience. Be prepared to be placed on a waiting list.

Many Leonbergers enjoy swimming, and their water-resistant coat makes them well-suited for it. However, always supervise them around water, especially when they are young or inexperienced.

Males tend to be larger and more imposing, while females are often slightly smaller and may be more independent. Both sexes are generally gentle and affectionate.

While generally gentle, the Leonberger's size and deep bark can be a deterrent. They are naturally protective of their family, but are not typically aggressive. Socialization is key.

Due to their size, training needs, and potential health issues, Leonbergers are generally not recommended for first-time dog owners. Experienced owners who understand large breed dogs are better suited.