Leonbergers were bred as working dogs and used to haul carts, herd livestock, and even rescue people from the water. Leonbergers have also been used as flock guard dogs.

Leonbergers hail from the Southern German town of Leonberg, where they were bred down from Newfoundlands, St. Bernards, and Pyrenean Mountain Dogs in order to create a breed that looked like the lion on the town’s Imperial Coat of Arms.

Leonbergers live to be seven to nine years old. However, individual lifespans can vary based on factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, healthcare, and overall lifestyle. Providing proper care, regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can contribute to helping dogs of all breeds live long and healthy lives.

Leonbergers reach their full size at about a year old but can fully mature up to the age of three years old.

Yes, Leonbergers are good with kids. They are known as “gentle giants” because large and imposing though they are, they are also notoriously tender with small children and energetic playmates to active, older kids.

However, like all dogs, Leonbergers need to be trained to behave gently with children and vice-versa. As with any breed, it is recommended that your child is always supervised when interacting with your Leonberger to keep both the child and dog safe.

Yes, Leonbergers bark because they were traditionally used as farm watchdogs in addition to being drafting and carting dogs; as such, they are alert barkers. As with any dog, they can be discouraged from barking as frequently with proper training and exercise.

Yes, Leonbergers make affectionate and devoted family dogs. They require (and love) daily exercise, so an active family that wants a companion for their outdoor adventures is an ideal match for this breed. They love swimming, hiking, and running, too.

No, not all Leonbergers are good with cats. Leonbergers are a calm breed, though you may find that they give chase to your cat. Of course, each dog has their own preferences and temperament, and if properly socialized to your cat and introduced at a young age, Leonbergers can get along just fine with cats.

Yes, Leonbergers are generally good with other dogs if properly socialized but can be aggressive around dogs they are unfamiliar with, especially dogs of the same sex. However, a well-trained Leonberger will grow to be a gentle giant who is sociable with dogs, cats, and humans.

Yes, Leonbergers are quite smart. They are also known for their sound judgment and easy-going temperament. Leonbergers are eager to please and respond well to positive reinforcement, praise, treats, and affection. They excel in activities such as agility, obedience, and water rescue work.

Yes, Leonbergers are protective of their family and home. They are known for instinctively establishing and maintaining the territorial rights of their household. They like to lie in a strategic place where they can see everyone who comes and goes, keeping an eye on their family and their belongings.

Some say that Leonbergers can be good for first-time dog parents because they are intelligent, loyal, and eager to please. However, Leonbergers are large and strong dogs that require a lot of time, dedication, and training to be well-behaved. They also require daily brushing and shed a lot, especially during their twice-yearly shedding season.

Yes, Leonbergers are known for being quick learners who enjoy training and socialization. However, training any dog takes substantial time and effort, regardless of breed, and Leonbergers are also incredibly powerful, strong dogs who require a confident and consistent trainer who will give plenty of positive reinforcement.

Don’t wait too long to start training your Leonberger — you’ll want to start early with this breed because of their size and strength.

Leonbergers are a sturdy, robust breed with a rather short lifespan that is normal for their size. Health issues to keep an eye out for include:

• Hip and elbow dysplasia: These are two of the most common skeletal diseases seen in dogs. They are similar diseases in which either the hip or elbow joint has grown abnormally or is misshapen. The abnormal shape prevents the joints and sockets from properly meeting one another, resulting in rubbing and grinding instead of sliding smoothly. Unlike in hip dysplasia, where the main problem is joint instability, the abnormalities seen in elbow dysplasia often result in pieces of bone and/or cartilage breaking loose and irritating the joint tissues. Over time, the rubbing from dysplasia can cause a variety of issues, such as pain, lameness, and secondary osteoarthritis. Surgery can be done to fix the joint if diagnosed before the onset of arthritis.

• Addison’s disease: A malfunctioning hormone production in the adrenal glands. 

• Gastric dilation-volvulus: A sudden swelling of the abdomen.

• Osteochondritis dissecans: A disease resulting from brittle bones.

• Hypothyroidism: A thyroid malfunction that results from in low hormone production and could cause obesity, low energy, and a brittle coat.

• Panosteitis: A self-limiting lameness or temporary limp.

No, Leonbergers are not hypoallergenic. Regular grooming practices such as brushing and bathing can help reduce allergens on a dog’s coat and skin, however.

No, Leonbergers are one of the few large dog breeds that don’t drool much. However, they may occasionally slobber when stressed or after drinking.

Yes, Leonbergers can live in hot weather, but they are not suited to hot climates because of their insulating double coats. If you live in a hot climate, make sure to provide a cool place for your dog, limit exercise to cooler parts of the day, and give them lots of water and frozen treats.