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Breed profile

Leonberger

A gentle German giant with a lion-like mane and a soft temperament. Lives shorter than most breeds, with high cancer rates.

Sand-coloured Leonberger with a black mask lying on a wooden jetty by the water
A sand-coloured LeonbergerPhoto: Charlie Mitchell / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Weight
45–77 kg99–170 lb
Height
65–80 cm26–31 in
Lifespan
7–10 yrs
Group
Working
Origin
Germany
Popularity
#96 US#96 UK · 2025

Known for: Family dogsCold climates

Energy
Shedding
Trainability
Barking
Good with kids
Flat-friendly

Temperament

Gentle, Affectionate, Calm, Playful.

Health problems to know about

  • Osteosarcoma and hemangiosarcoma
  • Leonberger polyneuropathy and laryngeal paralysis
  • Hip and elbow dysplasia
  • Bloat (GDV)
  • Leukoencephalomyelopathy (LEMP)

Ask breeders for the parents' health test results, and check what your national breed club recommends screening for.

Daily care

Daily walks and play, but no jumping or long runs until growth plates close at 18 to 24 months. Weekly brushing of the heavy double coat, daily when shedding. Expect drool.

A good fit for

Families with space and a car big enough, cooler climates, people who want a calm, people-focused giant.

Probably not ideal for

Small homes, hot climates, anyone unprepared for a short life and big-dog vet and food costs.

Sources

  1. Royal Kennel Club: Leonberger
  2. VCA Canada: Leonberger
  3. Hill's Pet: Leonberger
  4. Wikipedia: Leonberger

Popularity: AKC 2025 registration rankings (US); Royal Kennel Club 2025 registrations (UK, ranked by us). Breed traits are tendencies, not guarantees. Individual dogs vary, and mixed breeds and rescues can be wonderful fits too.

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