Leonberger

Overall description of the breed

The Leonberger is a breed with over 150 years of history, first appearing in the mid-19th century, specifically in 1846 in the suburbs of Stuttgart, Germany. It is the result of crossbreeding between the Newfoundland and the Saint Bernard, with influences from other large breeds like the Pyrenean Mountain Dog.

Created and developed by a German entrepreneur named Heinrich Essig (1809-1889), who resided in Leonberg, the breed naturally inherited the name of his hometown. The goal of this crossbreeding was to create a dog with the appearance of a lion, the emblematic animal of the city. Powerful and intelligent, it possesses great working abilities, whether for herding or guarding farms.

After many years of selective breeding, the founder succeeded in creating a large dog that combines agility and determination. The Leonberger faced near extinction during World War II but experienced a resurgence of interest in the 1960s. It was recognized by several canine organizations, including the International Canine Federation (FCI), which granted it definitive recognition on February 17, 1955. The last revision of its breed standards took place on January 4, 1996.

The Leonberger belongs to the giant dog category and is easily recognizable with its impressive mane and substantial dimensions. It is a solidly built dog with a voluminous bone structure and developed muscular structure. Its body length is approximately equal to its height at the withers, giving it a square shape.

Its thick legs support a broad trunk with a deep chest and a well-expanded chest. The top line is straight, compact, ending with strong and sturdy loins. Extending from the hindquarters, you will find a long tail generously covered in hair. Its head is massive, slightly longer than it is wide, with a discreetly domed skull, allowing for a well-defined stop.

Its moderately large ears are heavy in consistency and attached high on the sides of the skull. The Leonberger's coat is long, lying flat over the entire body surface, with a soft texture. When touched, you can feel its coarseness and observe its dense and compact undercoat. One of its coat characteristics is the presence of a mane around the neck and chest, especially in adult males.

The main color accepted by the breed standard is fawn, in various shades such as light or dark fawn, as well as sand or dark cream, always accompanied by the breed's typical black mask.

Regarding its temperament, the Leonberger is a tender, affectionate dog closely attached to its family, needing regular human contact to feel completely fulfilled. Its temperament is calm and peaceful, making it discreet despite its giant stature. It is not very vocal, only making its presence known to those close to it without excessive barking.

The term "gentle giant" defines it perfectly. Primarily deterrent, it never appears aggressive or fearful but will never back down in the face of danger, especially if it senses a threat to its family. It is also used as a working dog, specifically for mountain rescues, tracking missing persons, and more. Widely appreciated for its intelligence and obedience, it is a remarkable partner and valuable asset for many rescue professionals.

A big teddy bear with a tender heart, its sociability is extraordinary, lacking a hunting instinct, allowing it to easily get along with other animals and most of its peers. A territorial dog, it won't let anyone venture into its territory without a specific invitation, quickly distinguishing between a friendly or dangerous intrusion.

In summary, the Leo is an ideal companion, great with children, jovial, discreet, protective, and readily accepting of cohabitation with other species. If you have a spacious home and a family that appreciates large dogs, the Leonberger will be a perfect fit!

Its weight is approximately 60 to 80 kg (132 to 176 lbs), and its height is about 71 to 80 cm (28 to 31.5 inches) for males and 65 to 75 cm (25.5 to 29.5 inches) for females.