Training Your Leonberger – Building a Gentle Giant with Good Manners

CRIZLY
May 20
3 min read

Updated: May 31

Part 7 of the “Life with a Lion: All About the Leonberger” Series

Leonbergers are famously sweet and even-tempered, but don’t let their calm demeanor fool you—training is essential. These are massive, powerful dogs, and proper training ensures they’re not just lovable, but also safe, manageable, and enjoyable companions.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to train your Leonberger at every stage of life using positive, respectful methods that bring out the best in this noble breed.

🧠 The Leonberger Mindset

Leonbergers are:

Intelligent – they learn quickly but may get bored easily
Sensitive – they respond best to positive reinforcement
Eager to please – especially when training is consistent and fun
Strong-willed – they may test boundaries if given the chance

The key to success is firm but gentle leadership, and always training with kindness and patience.

🐾 Core Training Principles

Start early: The earlier you begin, the easier it is to build good habits.
Be consistent: Use the same commands and rules every time.
Use positive reinforcement: Treats, praise, toys—whatever your Leonberger loves.
Keep sessions short and engaging: 5–15 minutes is plenty, especially for puppies.
Avoid punishment: Harsh corrections damage trust and are counterproductive.

🐶 Puppy Training Basics (8 weeks – 6 months)

Early training is all about socialization and foundational skills. The goal is to raise a confident, polite, well-adjusted pup.

Focus on:

Name recognition
Sit, down, stay, come
Leash walking (no pulling)
Handling tolerance (brushing, touching paws, etc.)
Crate training
House training

👥 Tip: Introduce your puppy to a wide variety of people, places, sounds, and surfaces during this stage to build confidence.

🐕 Adolescent Training (6–18 months)

This is when your Leonberger may begin to test limits. Stay calm and consistent—this stage will pass with proper reinforcement.

Focus on:

Polite greetings (no jumping!)
Loose-leash walking
Recall (coming when called)
Impulse control (waiting for food, doorways, etc.)
Extended stays and down-stays

🐾 Tip: Group obedience classes can be a great way to continue socialization and improve focus in distracting environments.

🧓 Adult Training (18 months+)

By adulthood, your Leonberger should know the basics—but training doesn’t stop. Ongoing practice reinforces your bond and prevents regression.

Consider:

Advanced obedience
Fun tricks (shake, spin, bow)
Therapy dog certification
Canine Good Citizen training
Leash manners and greeting etiquette

🧠 Mental stimulation through training helps prevent boredom and unwanted behaviors in adult dogs.

🚫 Common Training Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Inconsistency – different rules from different family members
❌ Delayed correction – dogs need immediate feedback
❌ Lack of structure – Leonbergers thrive with routine
❌ Overuse of force – large doesn’t mean stubborn; kindness works better
❌ Skipping socialization – an under-socialized Leo can become fearful or reactive

🎯 Training Tools That Help

Clicker – for precise, reward-based training
Harness – reduces pulling and increases control
Treat pouch – keeps rewards handy
Long leash – great for practicing recall safely
Interactive toys – reinforce good behavior through play

🔍 If you're unsure how to start, consider hiring a positive reinforcement trainer familiar with large breeds.

💬 Final Thought

Training a Leonberger is not about control—it’s about communication and partnership. With a little patience and a lot of love, you’ll shape your Leo into a gentle, respectful companion who brings joy everywhere they go.