The Leonberger is a large, sociable working dog, muscular yet elegant, with a proud head carriage. The breed is distinguished by its black mask, substantial bone, balanced build, and double coat. Adult males are particularly powerful and strong and carry a lion-like mane on the neck and chest. Bitches are unmistakably feminine. The Leonberger is a dimorphic breed; a dog or a bitch easily discernible as such. Although imposing in size, the Leonberger is graceful in motion.
Natural appearance is essential to Leonberger type. The breed is to be shown with no trimming,
sculpting or other alterations.
True to the breed’s origins as a multipurpose family, farm and draft dog, today’s Leonberger excels as a versatile working dog and devoted family companion. Intelligent and lively, friendly yet vigilant, the Leonberger is attentive and self-assured in all situations.
Disqualifications: Mask - Complete lack of mask. Teeth - More than one missing tooth other
than M3s. Color - Any coat color other than those listed. White hair on chest exceeding 5 inches
in width, white extending beyond toes.