Health & Longevity – Caring for Your Leonberger’s Well-being

Part 8 of the “Life with a Lion: All About the Leonberger” Series

Leonbergers are known for their gentle temperament and majestic presence—but as a giant breed, they require special attention to health and preventative care. While their average lifespan ranges from 8 to 10 years, proactive care can help your Leonberger live longer, healthier, and more comfortably.

In this post, we’ll cover common health concerns, recommended checkups, and how to support your Leonberger’s well-being at every stage of life.

❤️ The Most Common Leonberger Health Issues

Like many large breeds, Leonbergers are prone to specific hereditary and structural health conditions. Awareness is the first step in prevention and early treatment.

🦴 Orthopedic Conditions

• Hip Dysplasia

• Elbow Dysplasia

• Osteoarthritis

🩺 Tip: Keep your Leonberger at a lean weight and avoid overexertion during growth to reduce risk.

💔 Cardiac Issues

• Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) – an enlargement of the heart that weakens its function.

• Regular heart screenings are highly recommended, especially if there’s a family history.

🧬 Neurological Condition

• Polyneuropathy – a nerve condition that can cause weakness or coordination issues. This is specific to the Leonberger breed and may appear as early as 2–4 years of age.

🐾 Other Health Concerns

• Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus) – a life-threatening emergency where the stomach twists.

• Cancer – unfortunately common in many large breeds.

• Skin and coat issues – often linked to allergies or poor diet.

🧪 Routine Health Care Essentials

1. Annual vet checkups

2. Vaccinations – core + lifestyle-based (e.g., leptospirosis, Lyme)

3. Flea/tick/heartworm prevention

4. Dental care – brushing, chews, or professional cleanings

5. Weight monitoring – obesity shortens life and increases joint strain

6. Regular bloodwork after age 5–6 – helps detect early organ issues

🧘 Supporting Longevity

🥗 Nutrition

• Feed high-quality, giant-breed-specific food

• Avoid overfeeding or frequent table scraps

• Support joint health with omega-3s, glucosamine, and chondroitin

🐕‍🦺 Activity

• Maintain regular, low-impact exercise to keep joints healthy

• Mental stimulation reduces stress and behavioral issues

🛏️ Comfort

• Provide orthopedic bedding

• Minimize stairs if possible

• Add ramps or carpet runners to avoid slipping

🧬 Genetic Testing & Breeder Screening

• If you’re getting a Leonberger puppy, choose a breeder who screens for hip/elbow dysplasia, DCM, and polyneuropathy.

🚨 What to Watch For

🩺 Call your vet immediately if you notice:

• Lethargy or sudden weakness

• Labored breathing or coughing

• Sudden bloating of the abdomen

• Difficulty walking or standing

• Seizures or fainting

• Drastic changes in appetite or thirst

🐾 Living Life to the Fullest

The truth is: Leonbergers don’t live as long as smaller breeds. But every day with a Leonberger is full of heart, humor, and deep companionship.

Your role is to maximize the quality of life through love, care, and responsible health decisions. When you do, your Leonberger will reward you tenfold with loyalty, calm wisdom, and the kind of bond only a gentle giant can give.

📅 Coming Up Next:

Part 9: Traveling with a Leonberger – Big Dog, Big Adventures

How to plan trips, car rides, and vacations with your Leonberger in tow—safely and comfortably.