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LEONBERGER — BREED DESCRIPTION & INFORMATION
Breed Description / Health Issues / Breed Standards / Grooming / Training / Additional Information
Breed Description
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| Breed Registries: |
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Note: The breed registries indicated above are the most recognized all-breed registries. The breed may also be recognized by other registries not indicated here. For further details about dog registries, please see the document: Dog Breed Registries in North America.
* — The AKC's Miscellaneous Class is an interim stage prior to a breed becoming eligible to compete in a variety group at AKC shows. The stud book continues to be maintained by the Foundation Stock Service until the AKC Board of Directors sets a date for full recognition. Effective 1 July 2008, the Leonberger is eligible to compete in teh Miscellaneous Class. The Leonberger Club of America serves as the AKC Parent Club for the Leonberger breed. Effective 1 January 2008, the Leonberger was approved to compete in AKC Companion Events. The Leonberger has been assigned the Working Group designation and has been recorded in the AKC Foundation Stock Service since 2001.
** — The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) is the World Canine Organisation, which includes members (one member per country) that each issue their own pedigrees and train their own judges. The FCI recognizes 332 breeds, with each being the "property" of a specific country. The FCI is not a breed registry nor does it issue pedigrees. |
| Origin: |
Germany |
| Height: |
Males: 28 to 31 ½ inches (72-80 cm)
Females: 25 ½ inches to 29 ½ inches (65-75 cm) |
| Weight: |
Males: Average is over 132 lbs. (60 kg)
Females: About 105 lbs (48 kg) |
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The Leonberger was developed in Leonberg, Germany, by crossing a Newfoundland with a St. Bernard and then adding other giant breeds, including the Great Pyrenees. The goal was to develop a powerful dog to use for draft work or as a flock guardian. The breed was stabilized by the end of the 19th century and recognized in several European countries.
The Leonberger is an obedient, good-natured and fearless dog. A wonderful family companion, he is well known for his friendliness toward children. Leonbergers are seen participating in many dog sports and activities including agility, obedience, carting, water rescue and herding. Their gentle nature also make them good candidates to work as Therapy dogs.
In appearance, the Leonberger, considered a giant breed, is impressive and elegant. He has a long, medium soft to coarse double coat that may be straight or have a slight wave. Especially thick around the neck and chest, he has the appearance of having a lion-like mane. He is usually lion yellow with a black mask. He may also be red, reddish brown or sandy colours.
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Health Issues:
The Leonberger does not suffer from many of the illnesses found in many of the giant breeds due in part from the very strict breeding guidelines set out by Leonberger Clubs and because of conscientious breeders working on preserving the health of the breed. However, like all giant breeds, certain health issues may be of concern. These include:
- Hip Dysplasia — This disease is found in almost all breeds of dogs, especially larger ones and the Leonberger is no exception. This is a hereditary disorder and all breeding stock should be x-rayed.
- Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD) — OCD is found in large breed dogs that experience rapid growth. It is recommended that dogs be x-rayed for this disorder before breeding.
- Panosteitis (Pano) — Also referred to as "growing pains" and generally a problem in rapid growing giant breed males. It is believed that food too rich in protein and calcium may provoke the onset of the problem.
- Addison's Disease — This disease has been diagnosed in both European and American Leonbergers. This is a serious hormonal disorder of the adrenal glands and, if undiagnosed, can lead to death. If diagnosed correctly, however, it can be successfully managed with medication.
- Osteosarcoma — Osteosarcoma is a destructive tumor state which spreads rapidly to other organs, particularly the lungs. Bone Cancer is a frequent cause of death in giant breeds, including the Leonberger. Generally, the onset of the disease is 7 years or older.
- Bloat — As with all giant breed dogs, the occurrence of Bloat or Gastric Torsion is a real possibility in the Leonberger. If you are not familiar with this condition, it is absolutely necessary to learn about it and know the symptoms — This is a real emergency and a life threatening condition that requires immediate Veterinary attention. See Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV) — Bloat in the Health and Nutrition section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for more information and First Aid for Bloat for an article describing some of the things you can do if you are faced with this situation.
- Hypothyroidism — A condition characterized by low levels of thyroid hormone.
If you are considering the adoption of a Leonberger puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. As part of the Leonberger Club of America (LCA) breeding regulations, assignment of an Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) number and a passing elbow and hip x-ray rating (which is based upon x-rays of elbows and hips taken after the dog has reached twenty-four months of age) and proof of hip dysplasia free for three generations are requirements for Leonbergers to be eligible for breeding in North America. For Europe, the same requirements apply with a OFA number or foreign equivalent being necessary. In addition, for Europe, one-time testing after 24 months of age of a standard OFA thyroid test is required and regular thyroid testing according to OFA recommendations is highly recommended. There is also a requirement for the assignment of a CERF (Canine Eye Registration Foundation) number for Europe whereby the testing must be conducted on or after the dog is 18 months of age and annual CERF testing is highly recommended. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Additional Health Resources:
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Breed Standards:
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Grooming Information:
The Leonberger coat varies in length and thickness. Moderate shedding is seen year round and "molting" usually twice a year with season changes. Those Leonbergers with a very thick undercoat and long feathers and mane obviously require more maintenance than those with a more compact coat. The Leonberger coat is waterproof and to keep the coat shining and elegant requires some brushing on a daily basis.
- Grooming — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes tips, articles and information covering all aspects of dog grooming along with a listing of Groomers from across Canada.
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Training Resources:
Early socialization and obedience training, through positive reinforcement, is strongly recommended for the Leonberger breed.
- Training — For information on training your Leonberger, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
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Additional Information:
- Working Leos — This website is dedicated to demonstrating the versatility of the Leonberger breed and includes information on the various activities that Leonbergers participate in.
- Leonberger Dogs Database — The largest Leonberger database in the world. Includes basic data of some 63,000 Leonberger dogs worldwide.
- Clubs, Sports & Activities — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes information on several dog sports and activities as well as listings of non-breed specific clubs from across Canada. (For breed specific clubs, see the Breed Clubs section.)
- Working Dogs — Dedicated to the working dog. This section includes tributes, information on various dog jobs, and listings of organizations from across Canada.
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