Leonberger breed guide: Care, training, and fun facts
Breed guide overview
About Leonberger
Temperament
Exercise
Grooming
Training
Diet
Health
About the Leonberger breed
Leonbergers are a majestic and versatile breed originating from Germany. They were developed as a working dog, excelling in tasks such as cart pulling and water rescue. Leonbergers are distinguished by their lion-like mane, dense double coat in shades of gold to red, and warm, expressive brown eyes.
Weight, height & life expectancy
Leonbergers are a large and powerful breed, with males standing at an average height of 72-80 cm and females at 65-75 cm. Males typically weigh between 54-77 kg, while females range from 45-61 kg.
Leonbergers have a life expectancy of approximately 8-10 years.
What is the temperament of a Leonberger like?
Leonbergers are gentle, affectionate, and loyal dogs, often described as "gentle giants." They form strong bonds with their families and are particularly good with children, earning them a reputation as excellent family companions. Their calm and patient temperament makes them well-suited to households with kids and other pets.
While Leonbergers are generally friendly and sociable, they can be reserved with strangers, making them reliable watchdogs. They are intelligent and eager to please but can have an independent streak, so consistent training and early socialization are important to ensure they grow into well-mannered adults.
Our Leonberger Community
"Doris is big and bouncy. Love to give kisses (not always appreciated!). Loves other dogs, big or small. Loves a treat! Happy curled up looking for strokes or outside in all weather. She’s a Leonberger so she is big and strong but as daft as a brush and so friendly."
Doris' owner, Matthew from Tarporley
"Winnie is a large furry girl. She is loving, gentle and very kind, her heaven is to be stroked and that will please her no end. She is only 2 years old so still very playful especially with other dogs. She is happy just chilling and is also happy running around fields and on walks, either pleases her."
Winnie's owner, Alex from Swindon
How much exercise does a Leonberger need?
Leonbergers are a large, active breed that requires a moderate amount of daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. They benefit from at least 1-2 hours of physical activity each day, which can include walks, hikes, swimming, or interactive play sessions. These activities help keep them physically fit and mentally stimulated, reducing the risk of boredom or destructive behaviours.
Despite their size and strength, Leonbergers have a calm and balanced temperament, so their exercise needs are not as intense as some high-energy breeds. However, they thrive on spending time with their families and enjoy engaging in activities that involve their owners.
Leonberger puppies should have their exercise carefully managed to protect their developing joints and bones. Short, controlled play sessions and walks on soft surfaces are ideal, with strenuous activities like running or jumping avoided until they are fully grown. Gradually increase their activity level as they mature, and consult your vet for personalised recommendations based on their growth and health.
Looking for an extra hand with your Leonberger's exercise routine? Connect with a local borrower today.
Do Leonbergers need a lot of grooming?
Leonbergers have a dense, water-resistant double coat that requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition. They shed moderately throughout the year and heavily during seasonal shedding periods, typically twice a year. To manage shedding and maintain their coat’s health, Leonbergers should be brushed at least 2-3 times a week with a slicker brush or undercoat rake. During shedding seasons, daily brushing is recommended to remove loose hair and prevent matting.
Bathing should be done as needed, usually every 6-8 weeks or when they get particularly dirty. Leonbergers are generally clean dogs, but their thick coat can trap dirt and debris, so regular maintenance is key.
Pay special attention to their ears, as their size and shape can make them prone to ear infections. Clean them regularly to prevent buildup.
As with all dogs, dental care is important. Aim to brush their teeth with dog-specific toothpaste at least a few times a week, if not daily. Regular nail trimming and paw care are also essential to keep your Leonberger comfortable and healthy.
Are Leonbergers easy to train?
Leonbergers are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with the right approach. Their calm and patient nature allows them to respond well to consistent, positive reinforcement training methods, including treats, praise, and play. Early socialisation is essential to help them grow into well-mannered and confident adults, especially given their size and strength.
While they are generally cooperative, Leonbergers can sometimes display an independent streak, so patience and persistence are key during training. They thrive when mental stimulation is combined with physical activity, such as obedience exercises, puzzle toys, or tasks that engage their natural working instincts.
Harsh or punitive training methods should be avoided, as they can be counterproductive and damage the trust of this sensitive and loyal breed. With proper guidance and a gentle hand, Leonbergers can excel in obedience and even specialised tasks like water rescue or therapy work.
Curious about spending time with a Leonberger to see if they’re the right match for you? Borrow a Leonberger near you!
What do Leonbergers eat?
Leonbergers should be fed a high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs based on their age, size, and activity level. Due to their large size, they thrive on a diet designed for large or giant breeds, which supports their joint health and overall development. Most adult Leonbergers do well when fed twice daily.
Leonberger puppies have specific dietary needs to support their rapid growth and should be fed a puppy food formulated for large-breed puppies. This helps prevent growth-related issues such as joint problems. Puppies should be fed 3-4 times a day until about 6 months of age, after which meals can be reduced to twice daily.
Monitoring their weight is important to prevent obesity, as excess weight can strain their joints and lead to health issues. Treats should be given sparingly to avoid excessive calorie intake. Always consult your vet for personalised advice on the best food and feeding schedule for your Leonberger.
Are Leonbergers healthy?
Leonbergers are generally a healthy breed, but they may be prone to certain health conditions. Some of the health concerns that can affect Leonbergers include:
Bones and joints
Hip and elbow dysplasia are common in the breed. These conditions occur when the joints do not develop properly, which can lead to discomfort and arthritis. Osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, is also more prevalent in large breeds like Leonbergers.
Eyes
Leonbergers can develop cataracts, a condition that causes clouding of the lens and may affect vision. Another potential issue is entropion, where the eyelid rolls inward, causing irritation to the eye.
Gastrointestinal
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), also known as bloat, is a serious condition that Leonbergers are at risk for. This occurs when the stomach twists, trapping gas and food, and requires immediate veterinary attention.
Neurological
Polyneuropathy is a condition that can affect Leonbergers, impacting the peripheral nerves and leading to symptoms like weakness or difficulty walking.
Hormonal
Hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, can lead to weight gain, lethargy, and skin issues.
This list is by no means comprehensive. If you have any concerns about the health of your dog or want to discuss whether a Leonberger is the right breed for you, consult with your vet.
Vet top tip
Leonbergers are intelligent and affectionate dogs that enjoy being active and engaged. While they are not as high-energy as some breeds, they still require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily physical activity, such as long walks, hikes, or play sessions, is important for keeping them fit. Mental stimulation is also key, so incorporating puzzle toys or training games can help keep them entertained and prevent boredom. A well-exercised Leonberger is a calm, content, and well-behaved companion!
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Information on this page should never replace advice given by your veterinarian. Potential health issues presented are given as a guide only and are not meant to be comprehensive. If you ever have any concerns about your dog’s health contact your local vet.
