The Leonberger is a purely bred large dog. They are also called Leo or Gentle Lion. Their name was derived from the city of Leonberg in Baden-W�rttemberg, Germany. The Leonbergers were presumably bred as a symbolic dog that would imitate the lion in the town crest. It was originally created by crossing a female Landseer Newfoundland with a 'barry' male from the Great St. Bernard Hospice and Monastery, a predecessor of the Saint Bernard breed. Then later, a Pyrenean Mountain Dog was added which resulted in a very large dog with the long white coats.
These dogs make wonderful family pets as they get along very well with children with their tremendous patience and tolerance to pain. They are brave, lively, affectionate and very intelligent. Being alert, they make excellent watch dogs. Keep these dogs well-balanced and they will be a delight to have in your household.
