Working Dog Group - Leonberger

The Leonberger is a breed that was created by crossbreeding the Great Pyrenees, Saint Bernard and Newfoundland. They were bred by a German breeder known as Heinrich Essing. These were specially bred to closely resemble a lion. The name of this dog comes from the city that it was bred in – Leonberg. According to a fable, this breed was specially bred to impersonate a lion in crest of the town of Leonberg. From then this breed has been a special part of the various royal families in the world like Napoleon II of France, Bismarck, Princess Elizabeth of Austria, Prince of Wales and the Italian king Umberto.

This breed grows up to be 29 to 31 inches tall and the bitches are smaller than the dogs, growing up to 27-29 inches. They weigh up to 100 to 170 pounds, making the look intimidating though they are known to be of a greatly gentle and sweet disposition. It is very large and muscular in shape, with a huge shaggy coat that makes it look fierce. The males are taller and the females are comparatively lighter and smaller. They come in many colors like pale yellow, cream, sand, lion yellow, reddish brown, golden red along with black. They have mane-like hair around their face that resembles a lion.

Their resemblance to a lion is only related to their looks; their nature and behavior is not at all like a lion. They are very human friendly, they love to play with children; even those who display extremely unruly behavior. They are highly intelligent and set examples with their love and loyalty towards their families. Though their size is quite intimidating to strangers, they are often referred to as gentle giants. They are not aggressive by nature; instead they show dignity and walk out of the situation. They are very calm dogs who take hostile behavior in very peacefully. Leonbergers are healthy and they are very good watchdogs.

They are compliant and adaptable in nature. They are attached to the family members instead of the surroundings; hence it becomes easy to take them with the family if there is a situation for the family to move from one place to another. These dogs are docile in nature hence they are very easy to train and are quick learners. Their size also creates different types of utilities for them. They are also useful in pulling carriages.

These dogs though are not of the agile types, their basic requirement of exercise is the same as other breeds of dogs. They need long walks daily to keep themselves active. It is strongly advised not to get carriages pulled by them in their puppyhood. Only after they complete 18 months of age, then they can be taught to pull carts and carriages. Leonberger loves to swim and take hikes. They are very amicable and hence their training should also include firm discipline to teach them not to jump on people around them as a form of greeting them.

They are not at all suitable for the apartment life considering their size. One would require a house with a huge yard. They do best when they are surrounded by large countryside. They do not live for long, with their life span being only 8 to 9 years. They are prone to bone diseases and eyelid problems. A heavy coat shedder in every season, they should be combed and brushed regularly during these days.

Leonberger is a friendly and human-loving dog and makes a great companion for the family.