LEONBERGER

Temperament: Courageous, Dignified, Calm

AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 76 of 197

Height: 32 inches minimum (male), 30 inches minimum (female)

Weight: 120 pounds (male), 105 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 6-8 years

Group: Hound Group

ABOUT THE LEONBERGER

Originally from Germany, where he was created through crosses between Newfoundlands, longhaired Saint Bernards, plus some Great Pyrenees, this giant breed requires a commitment to training and a high tolerance for mischief and mess.

He looks beautiful in the show ring, but his natural state is more along the lines of damp and muddy than leonine elegance. That, along with long fur and copious shedding, makes this a poor choice for neatniks.

On the plus side, his deep bark and huge size are more than enough to put off any halfway intelligent intruder.

PERSONALITY

The Leo’s high energy levels and intelligence make him a super competitor in agility and obedience trials, and he’s also found doing therapy visits and water rescue work. Leos like living in a pride of their own kind, but they get along well with other animals, too, including cats and horses.

Because of their great size, they should never be left alone with young children. This is a sensitive dog who dislikes family arguments. Keep your disagreements private or he may try to intervene.

NUTRITION

The Leonberger should do well on a high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian’s supervision and approval.

HEALTH

As with all canines, proper exercise and nutrition, routine vet exams, and parasite prevention are keys to a happy and healthy life. Large dogs such as Leos can experience bloat, where the stomach twists and gas is trapped inside.

CARE

If you live in a city apartment or a house on a small, suburban lot, this may not be the breed for you. Adult Leonbergers are generally calm and subdued, but they still need to have some vigorous exercise once a day.

Adult dogs can benefit from jogging or hiking with their owner or keeping pace alongside a bicycle. A large yard with a tall, strong fence is the ideal place for a Leo to run around.

GROOMING

Leonbergers shed a lot—and twice a year, they shed even more. A Leo should be brushed every day, especially in the areas of his body that tend to mat: the long hair behind the ears and on the backs of the legs.

Source: dogtime, akc.