Caring for Your Leonberger: Key Health Concerns and Solutions

by Vincent Fairworth. Reviewed by Fitpetgo

Updated: Sep 15, 2024

Introduction

The Leonberger is a majestic dog breed originating from Germany, named after King Louis of Bavaria's lion-like dogs that fetched flies off the king and his guests at outdoor events. Developed by Heinrich Essig in 1846, the Leonberger was bred to resemble the lions kept by European nobility in the 19th century.

Breed Origins

Leonbergers were specifically created from combinations of various breeds including Wolf-dog hybrids, Saint Bernards, Newfoundlands, Pyrenean Mountain Dogs and other large European breeds. This complex breeding process aimed at bringing together desirable traits like impressive size, powerful appearance, high intelligence, and an outgoing temperament.

General Care

Leonbergers are a massive breeds and they enjoy considerable exercise to ensure their physical fitness does not go astray. Providing opportunities for regular walks, play, and training activities would significantly contribute to their life-long health.

Physical Activity Requirements

• Adult Leonbergers require at least 2 daily hours of exercise, including a long walk along with possible short bursts of fast running or active play.
• Children and puppies will need less intense session but they are not exceptions from regular sessions that promote good well-being.
• Training programs should also incorporate elements of agility to make them feel more mentally and physically stimulating.

Leonberger Issues

Leonbergers often exhibit several health-related issues mainly because they have mixed ancestry. Their robust presence is their biggest plus, which sadly contributes to some negative traits like tendency towards injury if not handled carefully.

Frequent Health Problems

• Hip dysplasia: a well-known issue common amongst many high-energy breeds.
• Elbow dysplasia: it may happen alongside hip dysplasia and poses major problems especially in adulthood
• Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD): joint damage could affect knee, elbow or shoulder
• Allergies : skin issues are often observed
• Atrioventricular (AV) heart murmurs: A medical issue concerning the heart's structural integrity

Feeding a Leonberger

Leonbergers eat big, and that's what you might be seeing due to their size as well. Feed them enough for their muscle mass to thrive; a moderate calorie intake should be recommended otherwise overfeeding is easily avoidable, especially when not exercised regularly

Diet Tips

• A mature adult requires around 3-4 scoops of dog food every day
• Mix a balanced mix of high-calorie commercial feeds to include fruits and veggies. For puppy’s feeding, separate it into three balanced meals in the span of twenty-four hours.

Leonberger Behavior and Training Tips

Training is vital whether for socialization or training your large breed dogs. Be patient as teaching them needs patience, consistency and time but with correct reinforcement these magnificent dogs can easily become highly obedient pets.

Social Behavior

As you are going from puppy to adult stage in development, be on the lookout out as this dog might grow more and more attached as they mature which may be problematic sometimes depending solely on your handling techniques.