The Leonberger , fondly referred to as the " Leo " by many , may seem intimidate at first coup d’oeil because of their Brobdingnagian size of it . They are one of the world ’s large and strong dog breeds , yet the breed is also known for being gentle and sleep with giants .
Breed Origin and History
The Leonberger was established in 1846 in Leonberg , Germany . A breeder named Heinrich Essing crossed three breeds to intentionally create a dog that would look like a lion and keep on the speciality of the case-by-case founding breeds . He used theSaint Bernard , theNewfoundland , and theGreat Pyrenees .
The Leonberger was fetch to Russia in the 1800s and has been own by numerous majestic families , including Empress Elizabeth of Austria and the Prince of Wales . The strain began showing in the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in the eighties . Leonberger dogs were first imported to the United States in the 1970s and became popular for their versatility and unusual coming into court . However , the breed was n’t recognized by theAmerican Kennel Club ( AKC)until 2010 .
Characteristics
Leonbergers have a distinct visual aspect and personality . If you ’ve satisfy one in person , you fuck they ’re hard to miss .
Appearance
An grownup male person Leonberger can librate between 110 and 170 pounds . female vagabond between 90 and 140 pounds . Males ' meridian can reach 28 to 31.5 in at the shoulder , and females can 25.5 to 29.5 inches at the shoulder . Members of this stock have a large , muscular body social organization with pendulous spike and a farseeing tail end .
Aside from their size , one of the most distinctive features of a Leonberger is their long , gorgeous coating . The coating colouring is a mix of reds , black , brown , and atomic number 79 . Their most recognizable feature of speech is a black mask on their face . The breed is dimorphous , meaning the male person and females are well distinguishable from each other . The males stand out because they have a more prominent , Leo - like mane around their neck .
Temperament
Leonbergers have a reputation for being calm dogs with a pleasant disposition . They make excellent family frump if properly train and socialised , because they are very protective of their bang ones . Although they love masses , this breed can become fast-growing toward other dogs ( particularly those of the same sex ) if not socialise well .
Leo pup and immature adults can go through a refractory phase where they act out . Therefore , training them at an other age is authoritative . Due to their intelligence , Leonbergers can well become blase and destructive if not kept engaged .
Exercise Requirements
Although you would opine such a big dog might be less rambunctious than a smaller one , younger Leonbergers are quite up-and-coming until long time 2 .
Training
Leonbergers react well to positive training and are very sound . The most significant component in training is socializing your Leonberger puppy as soon as you bring them home . You want to make certain a dog of this size is comfortable around all eccentric of people and strangers once they achieve full weight and height .
You also need to make trusted they have at least the basics of family manners prepare down pat , and know basic commands and behaviors , such as " Sit , " " ride out , " coming when called , and walking politely on leash . If you require to go further with training , Leonbergers can make fantabulous therapy andiron due to their soft personality .
Health Concerns
Leonbergers are at higher risk forseveral medical problemswhich areendemic to the stock . Potential owners should be cognizant of these .
Lifespan
Due to their immense size , the stock has a life of approximately 8 to 9 year .
Grooming
Because of their long , threefold - coat , Leonbergers need a even dressing routine to keep their pelage and hide healthy . even grooming will also help reduce the amount of shedding , as these bounder are arduous shedder . Yourgrooming schedulefor your Leonberger should include the following .
Fun Facts About the Breed
Finding a Leonberger Puppy
If you call back a Leonberger is the right domestic dog for you , the undecomposed berth to start is contact theLeonberger Club of America . They have a directory of Leonberger stock breeder across the nation . The web site is also a fantastic source of information on the Canis familiaris and has a " Leonberger University " dedicated to furthering the Education Department of breeders and owners who love Leo the Lion . Another site to check out out is theAKC Marketplace , which lists breeders who follow AKC Standards .
How Much is a Leonberger Puppy?
You shouldexpect to paybetween $ 1,500 to $ 2,000 for a Leonberger puppy from a reputable stock breeder . The Leonberger Club of America has a text file on their site that providesquestions to ask breedersto ensure your breeder will provide you with a quality pup . If you are looking for a show - quality wienerwurst , you could expect to pay several thousand more .
Rescuing a Leonberger
If you decide to adopt a Leonberger instead of purchase a puppy , the Leonberger Club of America recommendsLeonberger Rescue Pals . This mathematical group is a nationwide meshing of Leonberger lovers dedicated to find homes for move dog .
Is the Leonberger the Right Dog For You?
If you like a light , orderly house , you may find a Leonberger a bit much . This breed sheds quite a flake and they can be messy feeder , not to mention their love of water and mud . However , if you bask a magnanimous , loving bounder with a calm demeanor , and you ’re willing to put in the sentence for neaten , socialization , and training , the Leo can become your own easy lion and part of your category .
