Leonberger
Description
The Leonberger is a giant dog with a striking presence, bred in 19th-century Germany to resemble a lion. This breed combines the strength of St. Bernards, Newfoundlands, and Great Pyrenees, resulting in a powerful yet gentle companion. Their size ranges from 90 to 170 pounds, and they carry a calm demeanor that suits family life well. They’re not just showpieces; Leonbergers have a history of working on farms, pulling carts, and even performing water rescues thanks to their excellent swimming skills. Despite their imposing size, Leonbergers are known for their friendly and patient nature, especially around children. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make training rewarding, though their low barking tendency means they’re not noisy watchdogs. The breed’s long, double coat with a distinctive black mask adds to their majestic look but requires consistent care to keep it mat-free and healthy.
Grooming
Leonbergers have a long, double coat that needs daily attention to prevent mats and tangles. Their fur sheds moderately, so brushing down to the skin with a pin brush followed by a metal comb is essential every day. Bathing should be done every 4 to 6 weeks, ensuring the coat is completely dry afterward to avoid skin issues. Pay special attention to tidying the feet and sanitary areas between full grooming sessions to keep your dog comfortable. - Brush daily with pin brush and metal comb - Bathe every 4–6 weeks, dry thoroughly - Trim hair around feet and sanitary areas - Check for mats, especially in humid weather - Use detangler sprays if needed Pro tip: Humidity increases mat risk, so increase brushing frequency during humid months to keep the coat smooth and healthy.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
Leonbergers benefit from about 50 minutes of walking daily, ideally in a single session. Their calm nature means they don’t require intense exercise, but consistent walks help maintain their muscle tone and mental well-being. Focus on a steady pace with occasional sniff breaks to keep them engaged without overexertion. Example routine: Morning: 50-minute walk around the neighborhood or park Evening: Short leash walk for bathroom and light stretching Keep walks relaxed and steady.
Boarding
When boarding a Leonberger, provide a crate at least 48 inches long to accommodate their large size comfortably. These dogs enjoy calm, gentle play rather than roughhousing, so staff should focus on low-key activities that suit their laid-back temperament. Enrichment is important; include two active play blocks combined with scent or brain games to keep their minds sharp and prevent boredom. Staff should be familiar with handling large breeds and patient with their slower pace. Quiet time and soft bedding will help them settle in unfamiliar environments.