Leonberger

 The Leonberger is a very large, majestic dog with a characteristic black mask. This breed has been used for guarding livestock, obedience and tracking. This dog is versatile and has been successful in many endeavors. The Leonberger is used in Germany for search and rescue and has a reputation as a great water-rescue dog. It has webbing between the toes to aid in swimming. The Leonberger is mild mannered, calm, friendly, and affectionate. Its warm, gentle personality makes it an excellent family companion dog. 

 The Leonberger is a lively, loving, sweet dog. This dog just loves everyone. It is steadfast, stable and calm. Its intelligence is extraordinary; its loyalty and love for its family is unparalleled. The Leonberger has a friendly personality. This breed is very good with children; it is trustworthy and has incredible patience, even with the most obnoxious children (but there are some that are not as patient). Generally if the situation becomes too intense, instead of showing any aggression, the Leonberger simply walks away. This dog needs a gentle, patient master; it does not respond very well to harsh training-methods. This breed wants to please, and responds well to training. To be an excellent watchdog it requires some special training. Early, thorough socialization is important, as this puppy will become a very large adult. Usually it gets along with other dogs. This gentle giant is serious, intelligent and brave; it is more agile than many other giant breeds. It loves to be included in all family outings and is very adaptable to most any environment. The Leonberger loves to swim, hike and be trained to pull carts and sleds. If you plan to have your Leonberger pull carts or hike, one has to wait until the dog is grown; it is not recommended before the dog is about 18 months old. 

 The coat is waterproof, rough looking. Weekly brushing is needed. Bathe only when necessary. This breed is a seasonally heavy shedder, during this time the dog should be brushed and combed daily. Some de-matting is required to avoid hotspots; wetness and damp-wet weather conditions are responsible for the hot spots. Check behind ears, feathering on legs, and tail for mats. 

 Unfortunately the Leonberger suffers from various health issues, including Addison’s disease, hypothyroidism, cancer, ectropion, entropion (inverted eyelids), hip dysplasia, osteosarcoma, OCD and bloat. Bloat is a health issue common to most dogs, being the second largest killer of all dogs. But Leonbergers can be particularly susceptible to it because of their deep chests. Bloat is also known as twisted stomach or gastric torsion. 

 They are large dogs and so space is needed for exercise. Although large in size, the Leonberger will do better as a housedog, if given regular daily exercise and/or training. The best owner for this breed would be an active family living in a rural or suburban environment. 

 Easily trained, the Leonberger\'s instruction should begin early in life to secure the dog to be obedient in his later, larger years.