Leonberger
The Good
- Quick to learn new commands
- No aggression towards people and other pets
- Not afraid of cold climate
- Very strong and enduring
The Real
- Requires regular brushing
- Poorly tolerates hot weather
- Cannot be left alone for long periods
- Requires early socialisation
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Leonberger is truly a gentle giant that captures hearts across Australian homes. Standing up to 80 cm tall and weighing as much as 76 kg, these magnificent dogs were originally bred in Germany to resemble the lions on the town crest of Leonberg. What makes them special isn't just their impressive size - it's their remarkable temperament that combines strength with gentleness.
These dogs are sexually dimorphic, meaning males look distinctly more masculine with their lion-like manes, while females are more elegant and refined. Their thick, waterproof double coat comes in beautiful shades of reddish-gold, sandy, and reddish-brown, always with that distinctive black mask that frames their kind, dark eyes.
In Australian families, Leonbergers have earned a reputation as outstanding companions who are particularly wonderful with children. They're the type of dog that will patiently endure a toddler's curious hands while keeping a watchful eye on the family. Despite their size, they're surprisingly calm indoors, though they do need space to stretch their legs.
Originally working dogs, they retain their love of having a job to do, whether it's pulling a cart, swimming, or simply being your devoted shadow around the house. They're intelligent and trainable, though they take their time to think things through - a trait that reflects their thoughtful nature rather than stubbornness.
History
History
The Leonberger's story reads like something from a fairy tale, beginning in the mid-19th century in the German town of Leonberg. Heinrich Essig, a town councillor and ambitious dog enthusiast, had a vision: to create a dog that would resemble the lion featured on his town's coat of arms.
Through careful breeding of Saint Bernards, Newfoundlands, and Great Pyrenees, Essig achieved his goal by 1846. The resulting dogs were magnificent giants with flowing coats and gentle temperaments that quickly caught the attention of European royalty. Napoleon Bonaparte, composer Richard Wagner, and even Russia's last Tsar Nicholas II all owned these remarkable dogs.
The breed's early years saw them working on farms, serving as both guardians and draft animals. Their strength and gentle nature made them perfect for pulling carts and sleds, while their loyalty made them excellent watchdogs. However, their story nearly ended in tragedy during both World Wars, when the breed came perilously close to extinction.
Dedicated breeders worked tirelessly to rebuild the population from the few surviving dogs. The first breed club was established in 1890 in Apolda, with the breed standard published five years later. By the turn of the 20th century, Leonbergers had transitioned from working dogs to cherished family companions among the wealthy.
The breed remained rare until the late 20th century, arriving in Russia only in 1989 after decades of absence. Today, while still relatively uncommon, Leonbergers have found their way into homes worldwide, including Australia, where their gentle giant nature fits perfectly with our family-oriented lifestyle.
Traits & Characteristics
Leonberger characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Like many giant breeds, Leonbergers face specific health challenges that Australian owners should understand before bringing one home. Their impressive size, while part of their appeal, contributes to a shorter lifespan of typically 7-11 years, though some have lived to 13 years with excellent care.
The most serious concern is gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV), commonly known as bloat. This life-threatening condition occurs when the stomach twists, trapping gas and cutting off blood flow. Signs include non-productive retching, drooling, lethargy, and abdominal swelling. Many Australian vets recommend preventive gastropexy surgery for young Leonbergers, which prevents the stomach from twisting while not eliminating bloat entirely.
Joint problems are common due to their size. Hip dysplasia, where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, can cause pain and mobility issues. Reputable Australian breeders screen for this condition, significantly reducing its occurrence. Arthritis often develops as these gentle giants age, making weight management and controlled exercise crucial for maintaining quality of life.
Cancer, particularly osteosarcoma (bone cancer) and hemangiosarcoma (blood vessel cancer), is unfortunately the leading cause of death in this breed. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection. Dilated cardiomyopathy, where the heart becomes enlarged and functions poorly, is another serious concern that requires ongoing monitoring.
Eye problems, including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, can develop, particularly in older dogs. Regular eye examinations help catch these conditions early when treatment options are most effective.
Australian owners should establish relationships with experienced vets and consider pet insurance given the breed's predisposition to expensive health conditions.
Feeding a Leonberger properly is crucial for managing their size and preventing health issues. These gentle giants need high-quality nutrition tailored to their life stage, but their feeding schedule is just as important as what goes in their bowl.
Giant breed puppies require specially formulated food that supports controlled growth - growing too quickly can damage developing joints. Feed puppies three to four smaller meals daily until they're 5-6 months old, then transition to twice-daily feeding for life. Never feed a Leonberger their entire daily portion in one meal, as this increases the risk of dangerous bloat.
Australian owners should choose reputable brands that meet international standards, focusing on formulas designed for giant breeds. These often contain joint-supporting ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, plus heart-healthy nutrients like taurine and L-carnitine. Given Australia's climate variations, ensure fresh water is always available, especially during our hot summers when these thick-coated dogs need extra hydration.
Weight management is critical - obesity worsens joint problems and increases health risks. Monitor your Leo's body condition regularly, feeling for ribs under a thin layer of fat. Adult Leonbergers typically need 6-8 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals, though individual needs vary based on age, activity level, and metabolism.
Timing meals around exercise is essential for bloat prevention. Avoid vigorous activity for at least an hour before and after eating. Don't use elevated food bowls, as these may actually increase bloat risk. Some Australian owners add probiotics or digestive enzymes to support gut health, but consult your vet before adding supplements.
That magnificent coat that makes Leonbergers so striking requires serious commitment - think of it as the price of admission for owning one of these gentle giants. Their thick, waterproof double coat sheds consistently year-round, with two major "coat-blowing" seasons that will test your vacuum cleaner's limits.
Daily brushing is non-negotiable. Use a metal comb and undercoat rake to work through the dense undercoat, followed by a pin brush and slicker brush for the outer coat. Pay special attention to areas prone to matting: behind the ears, back of legs, chest, and undercarriage. Skip a few days, and you'll face painful mat removal that's uncomfortable for your dog.
Bathing every 2-4 weeks keeps them fresh, though their water-resistant coat can be surprisingly difficult to wet thoroughly. Use dog-specific shampoos and conditioners, and budget extra time for thorough rinsing. Many Australian owners invest in professional grooming every 6-8 weeks to maintain the coat properly.
Their ears need regular cleaning every 2-3 weeks with a vet-approved product containing a drying agent - essential in Australia's humid regions where ear infections thrive. Check for redness, discharge, or odour that might indicate problems.
Nail trimming every 2-3 weeks prevents overgrowth that can affect their gait. Their size means strong, sharp nails can cause damage during enthusiastic greetings. Regular teeth brushing helps prevent dental issues common in giant breeds.
Australian owners living in areas with paralysis ticks should check their Leo's coat thoroughly after outdoor adventures - that thick fur can hide dangerous parasites. Consider professional grooming relationships with groomers experienced in giant breeds, as handling a 70kg dog requires skill and proper equipment.
Don't let their calm demeanour fool you - Leonbergers are intelligent working dogs who need both mental stimulation and physical exercise to thrive in Australian homes. The good news is they're highly trainable and eager to please, though they do everything at their own thoughtful pace.
These gentle giants think before they act, which can be mistaken for stubbornness. Give them time to process commands rather than demanding instant responses. They respond beautifully to positive, consistent training methods and genuinely want to make their families happy. Early socialisation is crucial - expose puppies to various people, animals, and situations before 20 weeks old.
Exercise needs are moderate for adults, but puppies and adolescents are surprisingly energetic. A mature Leonberger needs one good session of vigorous exercise daily - think long walks, hikes, or swimming sessions. They love water and swimming is excellent for joint health, making Australia's abundant beaches and lakes perfect for these dogs.
In Australia's climate, time your exercise carefully. Early morning or evening walks work best during hot weather, as their thick coats make them prone to overheating. They're much happier during cooler months and absolutely love winter weather that sends other dogs inside.
Mental stimulation is equally important. These working dogs excel at tasks like cart-pulling, agility training, or even simple jobs like carrying their own lead or fetching the newspaper. Many Australian dog sports clubs offer activities perfect for channelling their intelligence and strength.
Remember, an under-exercised Leonberger can become destructive or develop behavioural issues. However, they're generally calm indoors and content to be your shadow around the house between exercise sessions.
Who is an ideal owner?
The perfect Leonberger owner in Australia is someone who genuinely understands what life with a gentle giant entails. You'll need patience, space, and a lifestyle that can accommodate a dog who wants to be involved in everything your family does.
These dogs don't suit everyone. If you're frequently away for long hours, live in a small apartment, or prefer low-maintenance pets, a Leonberger isn't for you. They need owners who are home regularly and can provide daily interaction, exercise, and grooming. They're not suited to city apartment living - they need space to move around comfortably.
Ideal owners are active but not necessarily athletic. You don't need to be a marathon runner, but you should enjoy daily walks and weekend adventures. Many Australian families with school-aged children find Leonbergers perfect companions for active lifestyles that include beach visits, camping trips, and backyard activities.
Financial commitment is significant. Beyond the initial purchase price of $3,000-$6,000, factor in higher food costs, professional grooming, potential health issues, and pet insurance. Giant breeds simply cost more to maintain than smaller dogs.
First-time giant breed owners can succeed with proper preparation and commitment to training. However, experienced dog owners often find the transition easier. You'll need confidence to handle a dog that may outweigh you and the commitment to establish leadership through positive training methods.
The reward is a devoted family member who's gentle with children, welcoming to guests when properly socialised, and content to be wherever their family is. They're perfect for families who want a calm, loyal companion rather than a high-energy adventure dog.
Interesting facts about the Leonberger
Interesting Fact
Leonbergers are one of the few breeds where males and females look distinctly different - males sport that impressive lion-like mane while females appear more elegant and refined
Interesting Fact
Their thick double coat is naturally water-resistant, making them excellent swimmers despite their size
Interesting Fact
The breed nearly went extinct twice during the World Wars, with dedicated breeders rebuilding from just a handful of surviving dogs
Interesting Fact
They're natural draft animals and can easily pull carts or sleds - a useful skill that Australian owners sometimes put to work during camping trips
FAQ
Expect to pay between $3,000-$6,000 for a puppy from a reputable breeder. Costs vary based on breeding lines and health testing. Factor in ongoing expenses like food, grooming, and potential health issues that are higher for giant breeds.
Absolutely! They're fantastic with children and love being part of family activities. They're patient, gentle, and protective without being aggressive. However, supervise interactions with very small children due to their size.
Not really. These giant dogs need space to move around comfortably and a secure yard for exercise. They're better suited to houses with decent-sized backyards, especially in suburban or rural areas.
Adult Leonbergers need one good exercise session daily, but timing matters in our climate. Exercise during cooler morning or evening hours, especially in northern Australia. They struggle with heat due to their thick coats but love cooler weather.
Daily brushing is essential to prevent matting, with more thorough grooming weekly. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks helps manage their coat. During shedding seasons (twice yearly), you'll need to brush more frequently and invest in a good vacuum cleaner!
Not particularly well. Their thick double coat makes them prone to overheating. Provide plenty of shade, fresh water, and air conditioning during hot weather. Time exercise for cooler parts of the day and consider cooling mats or pools for relief.