It might be a Leonberger...

So, how can you tell? Especially when the dog is muddy, matted, skinny, etc. Well, it takes some educated guessing. The guidelines below are derived from the breed standard, and should help you in determining whether or not a dog is a Leonberger. If you have digital photos, you can send them to your Regional Representative for identification - photos taken from different angles with a good size reference are best.

Size

Leonbergers are similar in size to a Newfoundland or Saint Bernard. Adult Leonbergers should be:

• Males: 28 to 31 inches at the shoulder
  110 to 170 pounds
• Females: 26 to 29 inches at the shoulder
  90 to 140 lbs

Color/Coat

Long hair, ranging in color from sand through dark red-brown. Black mask on face. View Pictures. (Please keep in mind that these photos show "ideal" Leonbergers.)

Personality

From the breed standard

"As a family dog, the Leonberger is an agreeable partner for present day dwelling and living conditions, who can be taken anywhere without difficulty and is distinguished by his marked friendliness towards children. He is neither shy nor aggressive. As a companion, he is agreeable, obedient and fearless in all situations of life."

Other Characteristics

• Dry mouth and tight flews; Leos typically do not drool
• Webbed toes

How to Tell it ISN'T a Leo

Breed mixes are frequently mistaken for Leonbergers by those unfamiliar with the breed, especially Golden Retriever, Chow, or Saint Bernard mixes. Look for characteristics of these breeds that are not Leonberger characteristics: purple tongues in Chows, drool in Saints, etc.

Test Yourself!

Click here to try your hand at identifying Leonbergers from photos.