A Rookie’s Look at the Leonberger
Megan Currier shares her journey with Leonbergers, highlighting their versatility, temperament, and her experiences in breeding.
February 26, 2025
The Leonberger is a giant working breed known for its strength, intelligence, and gentle temperament. Originally developed in Germany, this breed was created as a multi-purpose farm and draft dog with the appearance of a lion and the temperament of a devoted companion. Leonbergers are versatile, excelling in draft work, water rescue, and participation in family activities.
Working
25.5 – 31.5 inches
90 – 170 pounds
7 years
| Country of Origin | Germany |
|---|---|
| Bred For | Lion-like Appearance |
| Known For | Black Mask, Friendliness, Lion-Like Mane |
| Popularity | Low |
| Temperament | Gentle, Friendly, Playful |
| Activities | Drafting, Swimming, Conformation Shows, Dog Sports |
The Leonberger was developed in the mid-19th century in the town of Leonberg, Germany, by Heinrich Essig, a politician and dog breeder. Essig aimed to create a large, majestic breed that resembled a lion, the symbol of the city. To achieve this, he reportedly crossed the Newfoundland, Saint Bernard, and Great Pyrenees, blending the traits of strength, endurance, and a gentle disposition. While Essig’s exact breeding records are unclear, historical accounts suggest that the breed quickly gained popularity among European nobility and working-class families alike.
By the late 19th century, the Leonberger had established itself as a versatile working dog. It was used for draft work and companionship, with some individuals excelling in water rescue roles due to a strong swimming ability. The breed’s popularity eventually spread throughout Europe, and it became a favored companion of royals, including Napoleon III, Empress Elisabeth of Austria, and Tsar Alexander II of Russia.
The Leonberger’s population suffered greatly during World War I, with many dogs lost due to food shortages and the destruction of breeding programs. By the end of the war, only a handful of Leonbergers remained, and dedicated breeders worked to restore the population. A similar decline occurred during World War II, once again bringing the breed close to extinction. After the war, a small group of European breeders focused on rebuilding the breed, selecting for both health and temperament to ensure its survival.
The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) officially recognized the Leonberger in 1948, solidifying its status as an established breed in Europe. In the United States, the Leonberger was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2010, entering the Working Group.
Adult Leonberger males stand between 28 and 31.5 inches tall at the shoulder, while mature females range from 25.5 to 29.5 inches tall. Their substantial build is reflected in their weight, with males weighing from 110 to 170 pounds and females coming in at 90 to 140 pounds.
The Leonberger is slightly longer than tall, with a deep chest and a strong, well-proportioned body. Solid bone structure and a muscular build provide endurance and strength, essential for the breed’s historical roles. While imposing in stature, the breed should not appear overly bulky or heavy. Instead, it should maintain a balanced and athletic form.
Texture: The Leonberger has a thick, water-resistant double coat that provides protection in various weather conditions. The outer coat is straight, medium-soft to coarse in texture, and lies flat, while the undercoat is soft and dense, helping to regulate body temperature. Despite the double coat, the outline of the body is always visible. The coat of the males is typically longer than that of the females, and males typically have a more pronounced mane around the neck and chest, giving them a more lion-like appearance.The ears have some feathering and the forelegs and hind legs have ample feathering. The tail is very well furnished with hair.
| Standard Color | |
|---|---|
| Yellow | y |
| Red | y |
| Reddish Brown | y |
| Sandy | y |
| Standard Marking | |
|---|---|
| Black Mask | y |
A Note About Color: The coat colors are lion-yellow, golden to red and red-brown, sand-colored (cream, pale yellow), and all combinations thereof, always with a black mask. All colors may have black tips (some with long black tips) on the outer coat, but black must not be the basic color. Dark coat colors are accompanied by a lighter-colored undercoat and feathering of the front and hind legs. A small, unobtrusive stripe or white patch on the chest, and some white hairs on the toes, is tolerated. Any color other than those listed, and white hair on the chest that exceeds five inches in width, and white extending beyond the toes, is a disqualification in the show ring.
The Leonberger has a long, well-furnished tail that reaches at least to the hock. When at rest, the tail hangs straight down with a slight curve at the tip, and when in motion or alert, it is carried slightly above the topline but never curled over the back. The tail is covered with dense furnishings, complementing the breed’s natural appearance.
Sharing life with a Leonberger requires dedication and a commitment to the breed’s size, exercise needs, and grooming requirements. These dogs are intelligent, affectionate, and highly social, thriving in homes where they receive plenty of attention and interaction.
The Leonberger is generally a healthy breed, but like dogs, individuals can be prone to certain health issues that require monitoring. With proper care, a Leonberger typically lives around 10 years.
Responsible breeders conduct health screenings to minimize genetic conditions, but prospective owners should be aware of common health concerns.
The most common health concerns in the Leonberger include:
The Leonberger is known for its gentle, intelligent, and affectionate nature, making it an excellent companion for families and individuals alike. Despite the breed’s imposing size, these dogs are remarkably patient and kind, often referred to as “gentle giants.” They form strong bonds with their owners and thrive on companionship, making them unsuitable for homes where they will be left alone for prolonged periods. Their loyalty and intelligence make them highly trainable, but they respond best to positive reinforcement and consistent leadership.
Leonbergers are typically friendly with strangers but may retain a natural watchdog instinct, meaning they will alert their owners to unusual activity without excessive aggression. They are good with children and other pets, particularly when socialized from an early age. Due to their large size and strength, early obedience training is crucial to help them remain manageable in adulthood. Their playful and affectionate temperament makes them a wonderful addition to active households that can provide them with the attention and engagement they need.
Proper nutrition is essential for maintaining the health and longevity of the Leonberger, particularly due to the breed’s large size and rapid growth rate. Puppies should be fed a large-breed puppy formula to support slow, steady development and reduce the risk of joint problems. Overfeeding or excessive calcium intake can contribute to orthopedic issues, so portions should be controlled carefully.
Adult Leonbergers typically consume 5 to 7 cups of high-quality dry food per day, split into two meals. They can benefit from a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, healthy fats, and joint-supporting nutrients such as glucosamine and chondroitin. Fresh water should always be available, and treats should be given in moderation.
Leonbergers are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with consistent, positive reinforcement. They respond well to reward-based methods and enjoy learning new commands, but they can become stubborn if handled harshly or inconsistently. Early training and firm but gentle leadership are essential to instill good manners and leash control.
Due to the Leonberger’s size and strength, proper socialization is crucial from an early age to ensure good behavior as an adult. These dogs should be exposed to different environments, people, and other animals to prevent shyness or overprotectiveness. Leash training is particularly important, as an untrained Leonberger can be difficult to control due to its size and strength. With proper training and structure, they can grow into well-mannered, adaptable companions that excel in both family life and working roles.
The Leonberger has moderate to high exercise needs, requiring daily physical activity to stay healthy and mentally engaged. Despite the breed’s large size, these dogs are agile and energetic, enjoying activities such as long walks, swimming, hiking, and light draft work. They are particularly strong swimmers and can excel in water rescue training.
| Energy Level | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Exercise Requirements | 1 Hour/Day (Minimum), Daily Walks, Vigorous Running, Regular Exercise, Mental Stimulation |
Leonberger puppies should have controlled exercise to prevent stress on their developing joints, avoiding excessive running or jumping. Adults benefit from structured activities that allow them to use their strength and endurance without overexertion. While they enjoy outdoor adventures, they are also content to relax at home with their family following periods of moderate exercise.
The Leonberger has a thick, water-resistant double coat that requires regular maintenance. Weekly brushing is necessary to prevent matting and remove the loose hair, with more frequent brushing needed during seasonal shedding periods in spring and fall. The hair is prone to collecting dirt and debris, so regular coat care helps to maintain overall cleanliness.
| Coat Type | Double, Weather-Resistant, Medium Soft to Coarse, Straight |
|---|---|
| Grooming Requirements | Weekly Brushing, Occasional Bathing, Routine Ear Cleaning, Periodic Nail Trimming, Regular Tooth Brushing |
Due to the Leonberger’s size and thick coat, grooming sessions should start at a young age to make sure the dog is comfortable with being handled. Bathing should be done only as needed. Routine ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care are essential for maintaining overall health.
Leonbergers thrive in homes where they have ample space and plenty of human companionship. While they can adapt to various living environments, they do best in homes with a secure yard where they can move about freely. They are not suited for apartment living due to their size and exercise needs.
The breed’s thick coat makes these dogs well-suited for colder weather, but they can struggle in hotter climates and require access to shade, fresh water, and limited outdoor activity in extreme temperatures. Leonbergers form strong bonds with their families and should not be left alone for prolonged periods, as they can develop separation anxiety. They are, however, ideal for active households that can provide them with both exercise and companionship.
Leonberger puppies require careful training, socialization, and structured guidance to help them grow into well-mannered and confident adults. Due to their rapid growth and large size, they need a balanced diet, controlled exercise, and early obedience training to support proper development. Their affectionate and intelligent nature makes them highly trainable, but consistent leadership is essential to prevent stubborn or dominant behaviors.
The Leonberger puppy requires a safe and structured environment to support its growth and development. Early crate training can help with housebreaking and provides the pup with a secure place to rest and sleep. Socialization is crucial, as exposing the puppy to new people, environments, and experiences will help it grow into a confident and well-behaved adult.
Feeding should follow a controlled schedule using a large-breed puppy formula to promote steady growth and prevent joint issues. The Leonberger puppy should be fed three to four small meals per day until around six months of age, then transitioned to two meals per day. Overfeeding should be avoided to prevent excessive weight gain, which can strain developing joints.
Exercise should be moderate and controlled, avoiding excessive running or jumping to protect the growing bones. Short, supervised walks and gentle play sessions are ideal. Early obedience training is essential, focusing on basic commands, leash training, and proper social behavior to help the puppy become well-mannered as a large adult.
Regular vet visits, vaccinations, and parasite prevention are important during puppyhood. Grooming should begin early, including brushing, nail trimming, and ear cleaning, to help the puppy become comfortable with handling as it grows.
The Leonberger is recognized by the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations, which categorize the breed into a specific Group based on its unique characteristics. This breed is recognized worldwide under the following Group designations:
| Organization | Group Designation |
|---|---|
| AKC (American Kennel Club) | Working |
| UKC (United Kennel Club) | Guardian |
| CKC (Canadian Kennel Club) | Working |
| ANKC (Australian National Kennel Council) | Utility |
| RKC (The Royal Kennel Club) | Working |
| FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) | Group 2: Pinscher and Schnauzer Molossoid Breeds – Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs; Section 2.2: Molossoid Breeds, Mountain Type |
The ideal Leonberger is described by a Breed Standard that is approved by each of the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations. The Breed Standards for this breed may be found in the following links:
| Organization | Breed Standard |
|---|---|
| American Kennel Club | AKC Leonberger Breed Standard |
| United Kennel Club | UKC Leonberger Breed Standard |
| Canadian Kennel Club | CKC Leonberger Breed Standard |
| Australian National Kennel Council | ANKC Leonberger Breed Standard |
| The Royal Kennel Club | RKC Leonberger Breed Standard |
| Fédération Cynologique Internationale | FCI Leonberger Breed Standard |
Although the Leonberger is supported by ardent supporters around the world, some dogs can find themselves in need of a new home due to changes in their owners’ circumstances. Below are some of the primary rescue groups dedicated to the breed:
For those looking to adopt a Leonberger, local animal shelters, working dog rescues, and broader breed-specific organizations can also be good resources. While Leonbergers are not frequently found in shelters, individuals may occasionally be available locally.
Yes, Leonbergers shed year-round, with heavy seasonal shedding in the spring and fall. Regular brushing, especially during shedding seasons, helps to control the loose hair and keeps the coat in good condition.
No, Leonbergers are not hypoallergenic, as they have a thick double coat that sheds frequently. Their hair can trap dander and allergens, making the breed unsuitable for allergy sufferers.
Leonbergers typically live around 10 years, though some may live longer with proper care. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary check-ups can help to extend a dog’s lifespan.
Yes, Leonbergers are excellent family dogs, known for their gentle, affectionate, and patient nature, especially with children. However, due to their large size, they require early training and supervision around small children to prevent accidental knocks and bumps.
Leonbergers are not excessive barkers, but they will bark when necessary to alert their owners to strangers or unusual activity. With proper training, any excessive barking can be managed while maintaining the breed’s natural watchdog instincts.
General Appearance: The Leonberger is a large, sociable working dog, muscular yet elegant, with a proud head carriage. The breed is distinguished by its black mask, substantial bone, balanced build, and double coat. Adult males are particularly powerful and strong and carry a lion-like mane on the neck and chest. Bitches are unmistakably feminine. The Leonberger is a dimorphic breed; a dog or a bitch easily discernible as such. Although imposing in size, the Leonberger is graceful in motion. Natural appearance is essential to Leonberger type. The breed is to be shown with no trimming, sculpting or other alterations. True to the breed’s origins as a multipurpose family, farm and draft dog, today’s Leonberger excels as a versatile working dog and devoted family companion. Intelligent and lively, friendly yet vigilant, the Leonberger is attentive and self-assured in all situations.
Size, Proportion, Substance: Size: An adult male is 28 to 31½ inches in height (30 inches preferred). An adult female is 25½ inches to 29½ inches, (27½ inches preferred). Weight is in proportion to the overall size and structure. When proportion, substance, and balance are present, a slight deviation above standard is tolerated. Proportion: Height to length of body is 9:10. Height is measured at the withers; body length is measured from point of shoulder to point of buttock. The depth of chest is 50 percent of the height; brisket reaches to elbow. The angulation of front and rear quarters is in balance. Overall balance and proportion are as important as height. Substance: Strong bone in proportion to size of the body, well-muscled.
Head: The head, in its entirety, is deeper than it is broad, rectangular shaped, with no wrinkles. The length of muzzle to length of backskull is equal. Cheeks are only slightly developed. The male head is strong and masculine, while the female head always expresses femininity. Mask: Face is covered with a full black mask that extends from the nose up to and over the eyes. A lesser mask is acceptable, but not desirable. Expression: Good-natured, soft, and intelligent expression. Eyes: Dark brown is preferred over light brown. Eyes are medium size, oval to almond shaped, neither deep-set nor protruding. Eyelids are close fitting, not showing any haw or sclera. Ears: When alert, ears are level with top of skull and set slightly forward. They are of medium size, triangular, fleshy, hanging flat and close to the head. Tips are level with corners of the mouth. Skull: As seen from the front and in profile, backskull is slightly arched. Skull is slightly longer than wide and the width of backskull is only slightly broader than it is at the eyes. Stop: Clearly recognizable and moderately defined. Muzzle: Nasal bridge of even breadth, never running to a point, level or slightly arched (Roman nose); never dipped. The jaw remains broad and strong between the canines. Planes: As seen from the side, the planes of muzzle and backskull are parallel. Nose: Large with clearly outlined nostrils, always black. Lips: Tight, corners closed and dry, outer lips black in color. Some de-pigmentation due to aging is acceptable. Teeth/Bite: Complete dentition of 42 teeth (20 upper, 22 lower), strong, meeting in a correct scissors bite, lower incisors touching inside of upper incisors. A level bite is accepted. Serious Fault – Lips – Drooling or wet mouth. Disqualification – Expression/Mask: Complete lack of mask. Teeth/Bite: More than one missing tooth other than M3s.
Neck, Topline, Body: Neck: Muscular, well set on shoulders, blends smoothly into withers, of sufficient length to allow for proud head carriage. No dewlap. Topline: Withers set above a firm level back that flows into a gently sloping croup. Rump not higher than withers. Body: Chest is broad, roomy, and deep, reaching at least to the level of the elbows, pronounced pro-sternum. Ribs: Well-sprung, oval. Underline: Only slightly tucked up. Loin: Broad, compact, strong, well-muscled. Croup: Broad, relatively long, gently sloped, flowing smoothly into root of tail. Tail: While standing relaxed, tail hangs straight down with the last vertebrae reaching to or below the hock. In movement, tail is carried no higher than the level of the back, with a curve up at the end permitted. An exuberant tail carriage, though higher than ideal, should not be confused with a high, incorrectly placed tail. Serious Fault – High tail carriage with tail curled over back at all times, whether standing or in motion.
Forequarters: Shoulder: Well laid-back and well-muscled. Angulation: The shoulder meets the upper arm at slightly greater than a right angle. Shoulder and upper arm about equal in length. Elbows: Close to body, neither in nor out. Forelegs: Substantial bone, muscular, straight and parallel to each other. Pasterns: Strong, firm and straight when viewed from front, slightly sloping when viewed from side. Dewclaws: Usually present. Feet: Turn neither in nor out, rounded, tight, toes well arched (cat foot).
Hindquarters: Rear Assembly: Powerful, muscular with substantial bone. Angulation: In balance with forequarters. Legs: Viewed from the rear, the legs are straight and parallel, with stifles and paws turned neither in nor out, placed widely enough apart to match a properly built body. Thighs: Upper and lower of equal length, slanting and strongly muscled. Stifles: Angle clearly defined. Hocks: Substantial bone with a distinct angle between lower thigh and rear pastern; well let down. Dewclaws: Rear dewclaws may be present. Feet: Turned neither in nor out, and may be slightly elongated. Toes arched.
Coat: Leonbergers have a medium to long, water resistant, double coat on the body and short fine hair on the muzzle and front of limbs. Outer coat is medium-soft to coarse and lies flat. It is straight, with some generalized wave permitted. Mature males carry a mane, which extends over neck and chest. The male coat is typically longer than the female coat. The undercoat is soft and dense, although it may be less so in summer months or warmer climates. In spite of the double coat, the outline of the body is always recognizable. Leonbergers have some ear feathering and ample feathering on fore and rear legs. Tail is very well furnished. Leonbergers are to be presented with no sculpting, scissoring, trimming of whiskers, or any other alterations whatsoever, except for neatening of the feet. Fault: Parted or curly coat.
Color: Coat colors are lion-yellow, golden to red and red-brown, sand colored (cream, pale yellow) and all combinations thereof, always with a black mask. All colors may have black tips (some with long black tips) on the outer coat, but black must not be the basic color. Dark coat colors are accompanied by a lighter colored undercoat and feathering of front and hind legs, that blend harmoniously with the basic body coloring. A small, unobtrusive stripe or white patch on the chest and some white hairs on toes is tolerated. Disqualification: Any coat color other than those listed. White hair on chest that exceeds 5 inches in width; white extending beyond toes.
Gait: The Leonberger has a ground-covering, even and balanced gait. The stride is powerful, free and fluid, with good reach and strong drive, giving the impression of effortless power. In motion, the Leonberger maintains a level topline. Viewed from the front and from behind, forelegs and hind legs travel straight. As the dog’s speed increases, the legs tend to converge toward the centerline.
Temperament: The gentle character and even temperament of the Leonberger is of utmost importance for fulfilling their role as a family companion. The Leonberger is confident, with a steady, playful demeanor. The breed is willing to please and possesses a good capacity for learning. Serious fault – Quarrelsomeness or hostility towards people or dogs in normal situations; unwarranted show of timidity or nervousness.
Faults: Any deviation from these specifications is a fault. In determining whether a fault is minor, serious, or major, these two factors should be used as a guide: Deviation – The extent to which it deviates from the standard; and Impact – The extent to which such deviation would actually affect the Leonberger’s phenotype or ability to fulfill its role as a family companion, and working dog.
Disqualifications: Mask – Complete lack of mask. Teeth – More than one missing tooth other than M3s. Color – Any coat color other than those listed. White hair on chest exceeding 5 inches in width, white extending beyond toes.
Approved July 12, 2016
Effective August 31, 2016
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