Country of Origin : Germany
Dog Group : Working Dog
Origin
The Leonberger dog was created in the 1840’s to resemble the lion of the Leonber town crest. It is a cross between a Newfoundland and St Bernard, and a backcross to a Pyrenean Mountain dog. Another dog may also have been used in the creation of the Leonberger in order for the colour we see them in today to be developed. They became very popular and many distinguished people owned them. However during World War I they almost died out as people could not afford to feed them. The handful of dogs that were left were bred from carefully until the World War II when they were nearly all lost again. Today the Leonberger is still relatively rare but it is gaining in numbers and popularity.
Description
The Leonberger is a large, strong and muscular dog. They have an unusual feature, webbed feet, which makes them good swimmers.
Feeding & Ownership
The young Leonberger must be fed the correct diet in the correct amounts.
Personality
They are easy-going, placid, loyal and even-tempered. They get on well with other pets and children.
Grooming
The coat needs to be brushed and groomed on a regular basis to remove any dead and loose hair.