Leonberger
Also Called: Leonberger
| Affection Level | Cuddly |
|---|---|
| Friendliness | High |
| Kid Friendly | High |
| Pet Friendly | High |
| Exercise Needs | Significant |
| Playfulness | High |
| Energy Level | High |
| Trainability | Average |
| Intelligence | High |
| Tendency To Bark | Low |
| Amount Of Shedding | High |
The Leonberger is a giant, strong, muscular, and elegant working dog. Bred to be the ideal family dog, they are friendly and loving with their owners and exuberant and playful around children. They are powerful, loyal, and intelligent.
Breed Overview
- Group: Working
- Life Span: 7-10 years
- Height: Giant
- Weight: Heavy
- Coat: Long
- Coat Colors: Brown,Red,Black,Yellow,White
- Litter Size: 10
- Family: Working Dog /Guardians or Gun Dog
- Hypoallergenic: false
- Recognition: AKC
- Size: Giant
Training and Care
The Leonberger should be given plenty of exercise and companionship. Owners should always remain firm and encouraging when training the Leonberger, as they can become stubborn and independent if allowed. Daily walks and regular playtime are important, and the Leonberger should also be kept active with mental exercises and playing fetch.
Diet and Nutrition
Leonbergers should be fed twice a day with an appropriate food for giant breeds. A typical adult Leonberger should receive three to four cups of dry food. Premium, all-natural foods are the best for these gentle giants, as they are more easily digestible than lower-end brands. Treats should also be given in moderation.
Health Problems
Leonbergers are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, heart defects, and thyroid problems. They are also susceptible to bloat, an often life-threatening condition that can be prevented with proper feeding and exercise. Regular veterinary checkups are recommended to help maintain the overall health of the Leonberger.
Breed History
The Leonberger was first bred in the late 1840s in Germany, and was meant to be a combination of attributes from three breeds—the Saint Bernard, the Great Pyrenees, and the Newfoundland. Originally bred to be an ideal family dog, they were popular in cities, and they even gained fame when one of them appeared in the 1928 film Noah's Ark.
