Leonberger vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison

Hailing from Germany, and more specifically the city of Leonberg, the Leonberger is a giant dog breed.

A resident of Leonberg, Germany, was looking to develop a dog that resembled a lion and in 1846 it was announced that such a dog had been developed by crossing a Newfoundland, Saint Bernard and Pyrenean Mountain dog.

It was after 2010, when the Leonberger Club of America joined the American Kennel Club, that the strict breeding rules were no longer mandatory for all Leonbergers.

The Yorkshire terrier originated in Yorkshire which is a place in northern England. In mid 19th century workers from Scotland came to Yorkshire in search for work. They brought different varieties of small terriers with them. Earlier they are known as Broken Haired Scotch Terrier and then Toy Terrier. In 1874 they were officially named as Yorkshire Terrier. They begun their journey as hunting dogs and later developed as companion dogs. AKC registered the breed in 1878.

As a giant breed, the Leonberger stands at between 65cm and 80cm in height. He weighs a hefty 40 – 77kg both males and females.

These dogs are described as being dimorphic. It means that there is quite a difference in the looks of the males and females, with the male dogs being heftier and larger than the females.

The head of the dog is large, he has almond-shaped, dark brown eyes and the ears are medium sized and floppy. The tail is long and he has webbed feet which makes him a good swimmer too.

The thick, double coat can be straight or wavy and comes in different colors such as reddish-brown, tan, sandy or yellowish and the hairs can be tipped with black. He sheds quite a bit so will need regular brushing.

The Leonberger can have between 6 – 14 puppies and these puppies are like big, fat, cuddly, fluffy teddy bears. Don’t be tempted to just buy one because of his wonderful looks because they turn out to be huge dogs that eat a lot and the coat can take quite a bit of effort to keep groomed.

Temperament:

Fondly referred to as the Leo, this giant beautiful dog is social and in spite of his size, he should never be left alone in the backyard for long periods of time. He needs to come indoors from time to time to enjoy some interaction with his human family.

He is a family dog, and with training and socialization, he becomes a well-rounded, confident, obedient pet, quiet and content and sensitive to his owner’s moods.

Even though he becomes a great family pet, you need to think twice before you decide to own one of these large dogs as he can be costly to feed.

Yorkshire terriers are one of the glamorous member of the dog breeds. They have excellent personality as their owner will be surely proud of them when taking them in public. They like to go outside and make adventures. They are good companion dogs and watch dogs too. They are very affectionate with their owners. Yorkies always bark when any stranger comes and they should be taught about neighbours and when to bark. They will get angry on seeing new dogs and surely chases squirrels.

They like to spend more time with their people. Leaving them alone for long time is not good. Yorkshire terrier should be treated gently and with love. They love to spend time with older children. They love apartment life if they are made to play and walk daily. Yorkies are the second most popular dog in America.

Don’t be deceived by the looks of the big Leonberger because he isn’t aggressive, but quiet and calm. Large he may be, but he isn’t sluggish either and he will certainly require exercise such as a long, fairly lively walk every day.

They’re intelligent dogs too and respond well to socialization and training. He is a social dog and wants to enjoy plenty of interaction with his human family members.

These dogs are often used as rescue- and therapy dogs as they are so loving and sensitive. Give him lots of love and good care and you’re going to have the most wonderful pet that lives up to the saying – dogs are man’s best friend.

Children friendliness

Yorkshire terrier are not so much friendly with children. It is not advised to leave them with children without adult supervision.

Special talents

They were previously used to catch rats and hunt badger and fox. They are excellent watchdogs and defend their territory very well.

Adaptability

They adapts well for apartment living. But they will not be happy if leaved alone for a long time. Yorkies cannot tolerate too hot or cold weather.

Learning ability

They are moderately easy to train. Yorkshire terrier should be trained early when they are amenable to process. Sessions should be conducted with lots of treats and must be short as they will easily get bored.

Leonbergers are strong, generally healthy dogs. It is said that very large dogs like this don’t live as long as smaller dogs and they also face more health issues. Orthopedic issues such as hip dysplasia are more common with large breeds.

Hip Dysplasia:

An orthopedic problem like this is a misalignment of a joint. This large dog also tends to develop elbow dysplasia too. Fortunately today, hip- and elbow dysplasia is controlled because of efforts of breeders to have their Leonbergers screened.

Nonetheless it is important to know about this ailment. The word ‘Dysplasia’ is referring to an abnormality of development. With both hip- and elbow dysplasia, there is abnormal development of the joints, and osteoarthritis can build up, causing lameness for your giant canine.

Cancer:

Cancer is sadly a leading cause of death in dogs over the age of 10 years. Lymphoma is a blood-related cancer – a tumor of the lymph nodes. Dogs can develop different forms of lymphoma. The warning signs are a lump or a wound that won’t heal, swelling in the bone and abnormal bleeding.

Luckily cancer is very treatable in dogs, but you need to get your dog to the vet as soon as possible.

Yorkshire terrier have possibilities of having hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism and von willebrand's disease.

Hair fall

Usually yorkies don't shed more. They have long, silky and straight hair. They should be made to bath weekly once.

That long coat of the Leonberger is going to require some brushing at least twice a week. He is also a moderate shedder and you want to get rid of all that loose hair and to keep him looking well groomed.

Diet:

A proper, nutritious diet is an essential part of having healthy, happy dogs and if you’re unsure about how to feed your giant pet, speak to your veterinarian.

The best diet for dogs is always very debatable, but essentially it needs to be kept simple. Try and invest in the very best commercially manufactured dog food for large breeds. Every dog wants a tasty home-made morsel from time to time. Add in cooked chicken, brown rice as well as cooked or raw vegetables. Raw meat can also be added in from time to time.

You want to avoid feeding the Leonberger puppy a high protein diet as this encourages rapid growth and you want to avoid that.

Feeding the puppy

For English bull dog puppies, When you change the puppy food from liquid to solid initially you must give what the dam is having. This is to avoid digestive problems when new food is introduced. The level of liquid food should be reduced in a step by step manner and thus increasing solid food gradually.

Feeding the adult

You have two choices and one is manufactured dog food and another is home cooked food. Commercial brands are not suggested as they contain artificial coloring and chemical preservatives.

Points for Good Health

Vaccinations should be made at the right time. The food given should be the best.

Games and Exercises

Yorkshire terrier should be taught tricks by giving rewards. Exercising them has benefits such as maintaining muscles, release pent-up energy, good for heart, good metabolism, good sleep and be active.