Leonberger

Leonbergers are calm, good natured, gentle giants who make the perfect family companion.

The Leonberger, or “Leo,” originated in the 1800s in Leonberg, Germany. They make excellent water rescue dogs and can be trained in dog therapy.

Personality

Large, muscular but gentle
Reliant, vigilant and obedient
Loves children
Friendly and playful
Graceful and well mannered

Size

130-170 Pounds
29-31 inches at the shoulders

Lifestyle

Their gentle temperament makes them a perfect family companion
Loving dogs who are always friendly, especially toward children
Can live indoors or outdoors, and particularly love stretching their legs in a yard
May be too big for apartment life, but mostly prefer to be wherever their pet parents are

Training

Can be lively and affectionate dogs when they’re trained and socialized as puppies
Patient, early training can help puppies grow into gentle-mannered adults

Exercise

Walking, swimming, and hiking are some of a Leonberger’s favorite exercises
Leos are content with a short daily walk and love being included in family outings
Due to their large size, extensive exercise is not recommended

Coat

Generally lion colored: yellow, golden to red and red-brown, sand-colored, with a dark mask
Heavy shedders, they need at least a weekly brushing

Care

Leonbergers are adaptable to almost any environment and even love to pull sleds in the snow
These large dogs love treats and rides in the car

Health

Because or their large stature, Leonbergers are prone to hip dysplasia and bone disease
May have eyelid defects

Lifespan

8-9 years

Rescue

If you’re interested in bringing a Leonberger into your home, visit the Leonberger Rescue website

PHOTO: irmavgog

i Love Dogs, Inc.’s three websites – ilovedogs.com, ilovedogfriendly.com and findavet.us – provide information and up-to-the-minute news to keep pet parents aware of all things dog. A premium canine vitamins and lifestyle company, i Love Dogs is famous for its line of diamond dog collars. The name says it all — at i Love Dogs, we are committed to the health and happiness of our canine companions.