Leonberger
A gentle giant with a lion-like mane, the Leonberger is a calm, patient and very sociable family dog, but poorly suited to heat.
History and origins
The Leonberger was created in the 19th century in the town of Leonberg, Germany, from crosses between the Saint Bernard, the Newfoundland and the Pyrenean Mountain Dog. The goal was a dog resembling the lion on the town's coat of arms.
It was prized by several European royal families.
Temperament
Calm, gentle and very sociable, the Leonberger is patient with children and welcoming to visitors while staying watchful.
It learns well with positive training, but its size makes good lead manners essential from puppyhood.
Health
The breed is prone to inherited neurological diseases (polyneuropathy), dysplasia, bloat and some cancers. Genetic tests are available.
Choose a breeder who tests their breeding dogs.
This is general information. For any question about your dog's health, consult a veterinarian.
Feeding
Puppies should grow slowly on large-breed food. Adults: two meals a day and rest after eating.
Avoid excess weight.
Exercise
It needs daily walks of about an hour, with no strenuous exercise during growth. It loves water.
Avoid any activity in hot weather.
It needs a house with a shady garden and ideally access to water to cool off.
Grooming
Its thick double coat sheds enormously: brush several times a week, daily during the moult.
Do not shave it.
