DOG BREED DESCRIPTION:
Leonberger
The Leonberger is a giant German dog breed, named after the town of Leonberg (Male Leonbergers have a lion-like mane on the neck and chest). It can weigh up to 170 pounds. It is believed that the Leonberger was developed during the the 1800’s by crossing a Landseer Newfoundland with a longhaired Saint Bernard, with a Pyrenean Mountain Dog . They were excellent working dogs but became nearly extinct after WW2.
These days, the Leonberger is primarily a family companion or in the case of our friend Olie, a Therapy Dog. The Leonberger is devoted to his people and wants to be with them all the time. The Leo, as he’s nicknamed, can be messy and destructive to live with. They can be sloppy when they eat and drink, plus they have a thick double coat and shed heavily.
They frequently love to play in mud and water, and they may be diggers and chasers. They are usually gentle with kids, but because of their large size, they should be supervised around toddlers so they don’t accidentally knock them over or scare them.
Like many giant breeds, the Leonberger may have a short lifespan of only seven to eight years.
The Leonberger is highly active, even as an adult. Expect to give at least an hour of exercise daily and put in plenty of effort training and socializing. If you love the outdoors, they can make good hiking companions. Ways to help get mental and physical exercise also include agility, carting, and obedience as well as water sports.
BREED TRAITS:
Sizes: extra-large
Personality: active, affectionate, alert, amiable, athletic, attentive, bright, devoted, energetic, friendly, gentle, good tempered, good-natured, kind, obedient, playful, responsive
Kid Friendly (1-5): 5
Activity Level (1-5): 5
Trainability (1-5): 4
Hair lengths: long
Shedding (1-5): 5
Jobs: dog sports, family pet, sporting, therapy dog
More about Leonberger Dog Breed:
Olie’s story HERE
Talent Hounds does not recommend, guarantee, endorse or rate forums, clubs, rescue organizations, breeders or their dogs. You should ask any organization or breeder you contact any pertinent questions, and check all matters relating to registration, health and puppy rearing before making any decision.
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