AKA: Leo

Description: The Leonberger is a large dog with a black mask as its characteristic feature. The mask is only up to the eyebrows, but it never completes the entire face. The males have a somewhat bigger head than the females, with the skull a little domed. Its lips and nose are black. The jaws form a scissors bite. The ears are hanging and medium-sized. This breed is big and majestic but its eyes show its gentle and kind nature.

The neck is strong and firm, with no dewlap. The coat is waterproof, and there is a mane that adds to the majestic look of the breed. The mane of the Leonberger can take up to four years to form. For the females, the mane is not easily recognizable. For the legs, both are feathered. Rear dewclaws should be removed. There are also webbing between the toes of the Leonberger that helps them in swimming. The tail is bushy and is set low.

Dynamics: The Leonberger is loving and steadily affectionate. Its size and look may be a little intimidating, but it is actually very sweet and kind. Its friendly personality endears it to its family. It is also very patient, even with the most rowdy children. If ever it becomes irritated, it just walks away and settles in a quiet place. It does not get aggressive. It is a most loyal and trustworthy companion.

Likewise, it does not respond well to harsh training. Patience and gentle training is needed for this breed. The Leonberger is intelligent and brave and will do well if the training is also reasonable and patient. Socialization and training should begin early.

Breed Group: Mastiff

Weight: males 130-170 pounds (59-77 kg), females 100-130 pounds (45-59 kg)

Height: males 29-31 inches (74-80 cm), females 27-29 inches (61-74 cm)

Color: The Leonberger’s coat ranges from tawny to reddish-brown and may have black tipped hair on the outer coat. There is also a small white star on the chest and sometimes a little white on the tip of its paws.
Country of Origin: The Leonberger got its name from its place of origin — Leonberg, Germany. German breeder Heinrich Essing crossed the Newfoundland, St. Bernard, and the Great Pyrenees to create a breed that could resemble a lion for the town of Leonberg.

Activities: The Leonberger needs to be taken on a daily walk. It does not need to have lots of exercises, though. It is an agile breed and has enough energy to be a good working dog and companion. It loves to swim, hike, and pull carts and sleds. The Leonberger has also been used to guard livestock, and for obedience and tracking. It also makes a good search and rescue dog, especially as a water-rescue dog.

Grooming: Because of its long coat and mane, the leonberger will have to be brushed regularly. Weekly brushing is enough, and the ears and teeth should be cleaned when needed. Bathe only if needed. De-matting may also be necessary

Other Info: The Leonberger has a life expectancy of 8 to 9 years. The breed is also prone to common diseases like hip dysplasia and bone disease. This breed is not recommended for you if you live in an apartment. It needs at least a large yard and prefer cool climates.

Photo: Dafping