The Leonberger is a dog fit for a king. Literally. He was bred to look like a lion, but he has the heart of a lamb. He is a massive, majestic giant with a lush tawny coat, a black mask, and a gentle, loving expression that belies his imposing size.

Despite his size (which can rival a small pony), he is a family dog through and through. He is famous for his patience with children and his calm, stable temperament. He is a versatile working dog who loves to swim, pull carts, and be part of the action. He is not a guard dog; he is a companion who just happens to weigh as much as a well-fed human.

History and Origin: The Lion of Leonberg

The Leonberger is a relatively young breed, created in the 1840s by Heinrich Essig, a dog breeder and the mayor of Leonberg, Germany. Mayor Essig had a vision: he wanted to create a dog that looked like the lion on the town crest of Leonberg. To achieve this, he crossed a Landseer Newfoundland with a St. Bernard, and later added Pyrenean Mountain Dog blood to refined the look.

The Royal Favorite

The result was a magnificent creature that became the darling of European royalty. Empress Elizabeth of Austria, the Prince of Wales, King Umberto of Italy, and Napoleon II all owned Leonbergers.

• Survival Against Odds: During the World Wars, the breed was nearly wiped out. Because of their size, they were difficult to feed during times of scarcity. Only a handful of dogs survived, and dedicated enthusiasts scoured Germany to find them and rebuild the breed. Just eight dogs are the ancestors of all modern Leonbergers.

Physical Characteristics: A Gentle Giant

The Leonberger is a giant breed. He combines strength with elegance. He should be powerful but not clumsy.

• Height: Males 28–31.5 inches (71-80 cm); Females 25.5–29.5 inches (65-75 cm).
• Weight: Males 110–170 pounds (50-77 kg); Females 90–135 pounds (41-61 kg).

Distinctive Features

• The Coat: A medium-long, water-resistant double coat that lies flat. Males have a profuse mane on the neck and chest, enhancing the lion-like appearance.
• The Black Mask: A hallmark of the breed. The face must have a black mask that covers the muzzle and extends up to the eyes. It contrasts beautifully with the lighter coat.
• Color: “Lion-yellow,” golden, red, or red-brown, often with black tipping on the hairs.
• Feet: He has webbed feet, making him a powerful swimmer.
• Tail: Well-furnished and carried down when standing, never curled over the back.

Temperament and Personality

The Leonberger’s temperament is his most important trait. The official breed standard states that he must be “equable” and “never shy or aggressive.”

The Family Dog

He bonds intensely with his family. He wants to be with you everywhere. He is not a kennel dog; if you leave him outside alone, he will be miserable. He is remarkably gentle with children and other pets, earning him the nickname “The Nanny Dog” (though no dog should be left unsupervised with kids).

The Water Dog

He loves water. He will jump into any body of water available—a lake, a pool, a mud puddle. He is a natural lifesaver and is often used for water rescue work in Europe.

The Calm Presence

He is not hyperactive. He is calm and steady indoors. He is content to lie on a cool floor and watch the household activity. However, as a puppy, he is a clumsy, rapidly growing ball of energy who can wreak havoc purely by accident (the “Leo lean” can knock over a toddler).

Training and Exercise Needs

Exercise: Moderate

Despite his size, the Leonberger needs moderate exercise to stay healthy.

• Daily Needs: A daily walk or a swim is essential. He loves hiking and can carry a backpack.
• Draft Work: He excels at carting (pulling wagons). It gives him a job and a sense of purpose.
• Puppy Caution: Exercise must be limited for puppies to protect their growing joints. No jumping or forced running until they are fully grown (around 18 months).

Training: The Gentle Student

He is intelligent and eager to please, but he is sensitive.

• Socialization: Essential for such a large dog. A 150-pound dog must have impeccable manners. He must learn early not to jump up on people.
• Leash Manners: You cannot physically control a 170-pound dog who wants to pull. Loose-leash walking must be taught starting the day you bring him home.
• Positive Reinforcement: He shuts down with harsh methods. Use praise and treats.

Health and Lifespan

The saddest truth about the Leonberger is his short lifespan. Like many giant breeds, he typically lives only 7 to 9 years.

• Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): A major killer. This is a life-threatening emergency where the stomach twists. Know the signs.
• Bone Cancer (Osteosarcoma): Common in giant breeds.
• Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Joint issues are a risk. Responsible breeders screen for this.
• Leonberger Polyneuropathy (LPN): A genetic neuromuscular disease that causes weakness and paralysis. DNA tests are available and should be utilized by breeders.

Grooming and Care: Embrace the Fur

Owning a Leonberger means accepting dog hair as a condiment.

• Shedding: He sheds heavily. You will find massive amounts of fur on your floor, furniture, and clothes. He “blows coat” (sheds the entire undercoat) twice a year, creating fur tumbleweeds.
• Brushing: Daily brushing is recommended to prevent mats, especially in the mane and pants (rear legs).
• Water Mess: He is a messy drinker. He will dunk his beard in the water bowl and then drip water across the kitchen floor. Keep a towel handy.

Is a Leonberger Right for You?

The Leonberger is a magnificent dog, but he is a huge responsibility.

Yes, if:

• You want a massive, gentle companion. You want a dog that feels like a hug.
• You have a large house and a large vehicle. He takes up space.
• You don’t mind mess. Shedding, drool (sometimes), and muddy paws are part of the package.
• You want a dog that loves to swim. You have a pool or live near a lake.

No, if:

• You want a pristine house. The fur is endless.
• You cannot handle the heartbreak of a short life. 8 years goes by very fast.
• You live in a small apartment. He needs room to stretch out.
• You are on a budget. Everything costs more with a giant breed: food, flea prevention, vet bills.

For those who can accommodate his size and hair, the Leonberger is a majestic, loving friend who will fill your home with warmth and your heart with pride. He is a lion king who rules with kindness.