Leonberger

Dog Breed

Today we take a look at a lesser known dog breed which is gaining in popularity due to the outstanding temperament of these gentle giants. The Leonberger  needs committed owners who can accomodate and care for these huge dogs. For active families, with plenty of space, they are a great addition and make loyal companions.

Lets find out more ;

The Leonberger dog breed originated in Leonberg, Germany. The original purpose of the Leonberger was as a working dog and companion for the nobility and wealthy elite. The breed’s large size, strength, and gentle temperament made them ideal for pulling carts and carriages, guarding estates, and providing companionship to their owners.

The breed faced some challenges during its early years, particularly due to the two World Wars. The numbers dwindled, and the Leonberger nearly went extinct. Fortunately, dedicated breed enthusiasts, especially in Germany and Switzerland, worked hard to revive and re establish the breed.

Here are some key facts about the Leonberger Dog Breed

Size and Appearance

• Leonbergers are large dogs with a strong and muscular build.
• Adult males typically stand between 28 to 31.5 inches (71 to 80 cm) at the shoulder and weigh around 110 to 170 pounds (50 to 77 kg).
• Females are slightly smaller, standing between 25.5 to 29.5 inches (65 to 75 cm) and weighing around 90 to 140 pounds (41 to 64 kg).
• They have a distinctive lion-like appearance, with a thick double coat, a broad head, and a gentle expression.

Coat and Colours

• The Leonberger has a water-resistant, dense, and medium- to long-length double coat. The outer coat is straight or wavy, while the undercoat is thick and soft. The accepted coat colors for Leonbergers include lion-yellow, red, reddish-brown, and sandy. They often have a black mask on their face.

Temperament

• Leonbergers are known for their gentle, calm, and friendly nature. They are excellent family dogs and are particularly good with children. They are loyal, intelligent, and eager to please their owners. Leonbergers generally have a stable temperament and are typically good with other animals, including other dogs and household pets.

Exercise

• While Leonbergers are not hyperactive dogs, they still require regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy. Daily walks, playtime, and opportunities for mental stimulation are important for their well-being. They are intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. Early socialization and obedience training are essential to ensure they grow up to be well-behaved adults.

Lifespan and Health

• The average lifespan of a Leonberger is around 8 to 10 years. Like many large breeds, they are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, osteosarcoma (bone cancer), and bloat. Responsible breeders perform health screenings on their breeding stock to minimize the risk of passing on these genetic conditions.

Grooming

• Leonbergers have a moderately high maintenance coat. They shed moderately throughout the year and undergo heavier shedding twice a year, known as “blowing coat.” Regular brushing is necessary to keep their coat free from tangles and mats. They may also require regular trimming of the hair on their paws and around their ears.

Working and Activities

• Historically, Leonbergers were used as working dogs for various tasks, including water rescue and pulling carts. Today, they excel in activities such as obedience, therapy work, tracking, and even agility. Their calm and gentle nature makes them well-suited for therapy dog roles.

Disadvantages of the Leonberger Dog Breed

•  Leonbergers are large dogs, and their size means they require a significant amount of space to move around comfortably. They may not be well-suited for small apartments or homes with limited space.
• Like many large breeds, Leonbergers are prone to drooling, which can be messy. This can be a turn-off for some potential owners.
• Exercising and grooming such a large dog is time consuming. Owners should be active and willing to spare the time to keep the Leonberger’s coat in tip top condition.
• Allergy sufferers may not be suitable owners for this breed due to medium to high shedding.
• New owners should be aware that this breed has a relatively short life span.

 

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Have you ever owned one of these giant dog breeds? I would love to hear your stories in the comments below.

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