Leonberger Information
Origin: In the 1800's the Mayor Heinrich Essig of Leonberg, Germany wanted to create a dog that would resemble a lion which was the town's crest. He loved large breeds so the first breeding was said to be a Female Landseer Newfoundland and a Male Saint Bernard. These pups were all black and white, good temperaments, were loyal and had a guard instinct. He traded some pups for another St. Bernard from Switzerland. Heinrich wanted to see more white on his dogs so he then breed to a Great Pyrenean Mountain Dog.
The monks liked these dogs because they were stronger and worked harder than the St. Bernard's. The favored color was golden yellow with dark points.
When this breed made their debut in Munich the people were impressed with the lion like mane, the size, beauty and even temperament.
The Leo's popularity grew but during the World Wars there was a rapid decline. Very few, of this once sought after breed remained by 1945.
Appearance: Lion color, yellow-gold to red-brown with a black mask. A small white star on the chest as well as white hair at the tips of paw are allowed. The collar at the throat, the fur of the forelegs, as well as the under side of the tail may be some what brighter but should not disharmonize the over all color. The pads of the feet must be black.
The males are masculine and have a very impressive head, with a kind gentle expression. The males stand between 72 and 80 cm at the withers and weigh as much as 70 kg. The bitches stand between 65 and 75 cm and weigh up to 50 kg. The females have a feminine look.
This wonderful family dog also has webbed feet a sure sign of it's love for water. In some countries they are used as rescue dogs.
Temperament: These friendly giants are known for their love of children. They are gentle, loving and have a guard quality (size and deep bark deter most intruders). Leo's have oodles of patience and will walk away before showing any aggression. They deal well with noise and busy households.
With their size training is a must, but because they love to please this is not a difficult job. Leo's are quite agile and are very careful of their surroundings "Your Home". It is important to socialize them when they are young so they do not become shy in adulthood.
Upkeep: Leonberger's are not a high maintenance breed. Regular exercise same as any dog. Contrary to it`s size does not eat a lot. A weekly brushing and be sure to check behind ears ,feathers and tail for matting.
Leo's love to be with their family and adapt very well to most environments. They love to swim and hike. They have also been trained to pull carts and sleds but this should not be done until they are fully developed which is after they are 18 months old.
Health: In general Leonberger's are strong and healthy, however as with most breeds it is prone to a variety of health problems but with a careful breeding plan this can be minimized if not avoided. The life expectancy is between 10 and 12 years of age.
There are many breeders around that are trying to improve quality, health, longevity and temperament in this majestic breed.