Leonberger

Dog Breed Profile

Leonberger History

The Leonberger is a large, white, heavily-boned, short-haired, and long-lived working and pastoral dog of the Pointer type, originating in the Austro-Hungarian Empire. It is also known as the Austrian Lion Dog and the Bavarian Mountain and Cattle Dog. In the late 17th century, the Leonberger was crossed with a Newfoundland. The resulting offspring were too big and clumsy to be of any use as a working gundog. These dogs were then crossed with a St Bernard to create the modern-day Leonberger. The Leonberger is a gentle, obedient, and loyal companion. For this reason, they are well-suited to family life, and they make excellent family pets. The temperament of the Leonberger is very even-tempered, making it a great pet for families with children.

Time of Origin

1800s

Country of Origin

Germany

Ancestry

Newfoundland, Saint Bernard, Great Pyrenees

Leonberger Physical Characteristics

The Leonberger is a medium-to-large sized, heavy-coated breed that is typically 24 to 27 inches at the withers and 120 to 140 lbs in weight. They come in several shades of fawn, mahogany, gold, red, silver and brindle. The dogs have thick, soft, and bushy coats. Their colouring and facial markings may vary. They have long muzzles, a hanging tongue, and almond shaped eyes. Their ears are drop-shaped. The tail is carried low. The breed has webbed feet.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Unknown

Coat Colors

Unknown

Height Range

Male Height Range: 28 – 31 inches

Female Height Range: 26 – 30 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 120 – 170 lbs

Female Weight Range: 100 – 135 lbs

Leonberger Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

6-8 yrs

Leonberger Health Concerns

Hip Dysplasia, Eye Problems, Laryngeal Paralysis, Inherited Leonberger Polyneuropathy

Leonberger Temperament and Behaviour

The Leonberger is a gentle and sensitive breed that makes a great family pet. They are playful and get along well with children and other household pets. They are protective of their family and home, but are also calm, gentle, and dignified. They might be a little stubborn at times, so they may not be the best candidate for obedience training.

Leonberger Activity Requirements

The Leonberger is a large, strong, and majestic dog that originated in Germany. This intelligent working dog is a loving and loyal companion. A daily walk or run is the perfect way to meet your Leonberger’s exercise needs. They are athletic dogs and are happiest when they have a job to do. While some of their favorite activities include pulling carts and jogging, they also enjoy playing ball and going on hikes. While a Leonberger can live in a fairly small house or apartment, they do require regular exercise. They are big dogs, and can get restless and destructive if they don’t get enough mental and physical stimulation.