Leonberger — breed guide
Leonberger — temperament, grooming, exercise, heat tolerance and care, from the Leash Life breed guide.
At a glance
- Group
- working
- Size
- Giant
- Weight
- 41–77 kg (90–170 lb)
- Life span
- 8–9 years
- Coat
- Thick water-resistant double coat with a mane
Living with a Leonberger
- Moderate energy — a proper walk every day.
- Heavy grooming — frequent brushing and regular trims.
- Constant heavy shedding.
- Quick to learn.
- Quiet.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Typically lives happily with a cat.
- Not well suited to a flat — space, exercise need or voice works against it.
- Better with previous experience behind you.
- Struggles in heat — walk early, walk late, and watch for distress.
- Built for cold weather.
Temperament
Gentle · Steady · Playful · Devoted
Health to watch
- Hip dysplasia
- Bone cancer
- Polyneuropathy
- Bloat
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a Leonberger good with kids?
Generally yes. Leonbergers are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Leonberger good with cats?
Usually yes. Leonbergers typically settle well with a resident cat — introduce them slowly and give the cat a high perch and a way out of the room.
How much exercise does a Leonberger need?
A real walk every day, around 30–60 minutes.
Can a Leonberger handle hot weather?
It struggles; keep summer outings short and shaded.
Leash Life keeps a Leonberger's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.