The site was last updated on

24 Aug 2000

Name of breed: Leonberger
Class: Working
Recognized: ANKC, CKC, FCI, KC (GB), KUSA.
Size: Height at withers: dogs 72-80cm (28-32in), bitches 65-76cm (26-30in).
Weight: 36.3-68 (80-150lb).
Coat: Medium soft, fairly long and close to body.
Colors: Light yellow, golden or red-brown; preferably with black mask.

A German breed, the Leonberger is generally thought to have come about through the crossing of a Landseer and Pyrenean Mountain Dog. However, some people believe that it is a descendant of the Tibetan Mastiff, while others consider it to be the produce of selective breeding by Herr Essig of Leonberg. He is said to have used the Newfoundland, Saint Bernard and Pyrenean Mountain Dog to develop the breed. The breed was devastated by both World Wars and is considered a rare breed.
It was not until 1949 that a recognized standard for the breed clearly defined the difference between the Leonberger and the Saint Bernard. The Leonberger has worked in Germany, France, the Netherlands and Belgium as a watchdog, a protector of livestock, as a draught dog, but has only become known outside these countries fairly recently.

Character and care

Good natured, intelligent and lively, the Leonberger is is a fine-looking watchdog, produced from breeds of sound temperament. It is essentially a country dog, and needs daily brushing, regular exercise and plenty of space. It is very good with children, and has a great love of water.