Leonberger Temperament

I remember the moment. Perched on our wooden barstool in the kitchen, my mother cutting my hair; the time was right to present my case for the Leonberger. With every persuasive tool an eight-year old might possess. I began delicately painting a picture of the Leonberger. I emphasized their gentleness. I waxed eloquent on their love of all people. I highlighted their versatility from hiking to couch potatoes. I do not think I have or will ever try to sell a Leonberger to anyone as hard as I tried at that moment. As the conversation still seemed agreeable, I took courage and shared, what I thought, was the best phrase describing the Leonberger. I had saved it for last. “They have the strength of a lion and the gentleness of a lamb.” The hair-cutting stopped, and along with it any further conversation, and one can assume that the only words heard were “lion” and “strength”.

While I never experienced my Leonberger dream as a child, as an adult I have the privilege of sharing this dream with my own children and husband. As to the strength of a lion, they certainly have been graced with power. But power can be harnessed. And strength can be controlled. That is why the Leonberger temperament is paramount. A reputable breeder will have the Leonberger temperament in the forefront of his/her mind with every breeding. And then, when you go home with a puppy that has that beautiful Leonberger temperament, you will find yourself face-to-face with the question of your own commitment to shape and mold this new member of your household. Instilling self-control from the beginning is the easiest way to do this.

As reputable breeders, we want to put in your arms a puppy whose parents comform to the breed standard, both in their physical attributes as well as in temperament. We truly desire for you to enjoy your Leonberger to the fullest, whether it is at home or on a hike, whether in private or in public. There are so many excellent puppy training programs out there to follow (I have written about one of my personal favorite’s here). Honestly, I would recommend finding a philosophy that matches your values. Come to think of it, it is similar to finding a breeder. There are some breeders whose personality you find is a great match for you, while others you may find yourself tempted to suddenly become someone you are not. I am totally guilty of this myself (raising my hand high;0). So find a training program whose philosophy that makes sense to YOU. Find a breeder who you find draws out the person you are and supports you and the lifestyle you love and embrace without restraint.

And just maybe the question is not so much as, “Do you have the physical strength to own a Leonberger”, as much as “Do you have the commitment to discipline your puppy in self-control”? While these are questions that only you can answer, these are also questions we would also love to further talk you through if wanted!

That your joy may be full,

The Fogles