Mary Allen
#10 You have to be careful when feeding the Leonberger, because he loves food and likes to eat – even in excess of his needs.
One is often tempted to think that a little more can't hurt this giant. But Leonbergers tend to be overweight. So when choosing food, you need to look for quality food, adjust portions for age and activity level, and be consistent when the dog tries to give the impression that it hasn't had enough.
There should always be enough water available. You should always have a bowl and a water bottle with you on hikes and sporting activities, especially in summer, of course. When choosing where to drink, you need to know that Leonbergers like to slobber and drool a little when drinking.
#11 Unfortunately, Leonbergers are not spared from the diseases typical of large dog breeds. Hip dysplasia ranks at the forefront.
But if you buy him from a reputable breeder and get the right amount of exercise from a young age, the risk of illness is low. Typical diseases in large dog breeds are also arthrosis, heart problems, and stomach torsion. Here, too, you can counteract this by buying from a reputable breeder and eating a balanced diet.
Overall, however, Leonbergers are robust dogs, and among the large dogs are those that are considered the least prone to disease. With good care, a balanced diet, and sufficient activity, Leonbergers can live eight to nine years without any problems.
#12 The Leonbergers may appear sluggish and easygoing due to their mass and calm nature, but the dogs are anything but that.
They are playful, enthusiastic about movement, and like to be active. Long daily walks are the minimum you have to offer a Leonberger. He likes to accompany his people on long hikes.
He is suitable for dog sports, but he does not need it. He likes to romp around in the great outdoors or in his garden. He loves water, and a nearby pond or lake where dogs are allowed to swim would be ideal for him. Alternatively, you can turn on the water hose in the garden in summer. The Leonberger will be enthusiastic about this game. Because of his love of water, he will enjoy dog diving. He is also well suited for the obedience due to his willingness to learn and his intelligence. Obedience is an obedience exercise that requires perfect cooperation between the dog and its human. Obedience is often compared to dressage in equestrian sports.