Leonberger vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

Leonberger vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed ComparisonCaucasian Shepherd is originated from Russia but Leonberger is originated from Germany. Both Caucasian Shepherd and Leonberger are having almost same height. Caucasian Shepherd may weigh 23 kg / 51 pounds more than Leonberger. Both Caucasian Shepherd and Leonberger has almost same life span. Caucasian Shepherd may have less litter size than Leonberger. Both Caucasian Shepherd and Leonberger requires Moderate Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Molosser dogs
Working dog
undefined
Russia
Germany
Height Male:
70 - 75 cm
27 - 30 inches
65 - 80 cm
25 - 32 inches
Height Female:
67 - 72 cm
26 - 29 inches
65 - 80 cm
25 - 32 inches
Weight Male:
50 - 100 kg
110 - 221 pounds
40 - 77 kg
88 - 170 pounds
Weight Female:
45 - 90 kg
99 - 199 pounds
40 - 77 kg
88 - 170 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
8 - 10 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 10
6 - 14
Size:
Large
Giant
Other Names:
Caucasian Ovcharka, Caucasian Mountain Dog
Gentle Leo, Leo, Gentle Giant
Colors Available:
Fawn, brownish to dark grey, black - bi-colored
sandy or yellowish, tan, Reddish-brown
Coat:
Long haired, dense
Thick double-coat - straight or wavy
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
No
No
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

History

caucasian shepherdThis working dog is more than 2 000 years old, hailing from the Caucasus Mountains near the Georgian Republic, Russia.

The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is an ancient breed, always having been used to guard livestock in the mountains. Some believe they came from domesticated wolves, while others believe their ancestry includes Mastiffs and other breeds.

It was in the 1960s that the dog was used in Germany for patrol along the Berlin Wall. This dog is also known as the Caucasian Ovcharka and he is large and powerful, always being ready to take on anyone who threatens him or the livestock he is guarding.

His origins can be traced far back and eventually the dog found its ways to the USA where dog clubs were formed.The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is one of the oldest Molosser breeds, and today they are mostly appreciated for being wonderful family companions and watchdogs.

leonbergerHailing 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.

Description

caucasian shepherd puppy - descriptionThe Caucasian Shepherd is a large, impressive looking dog standing at between 64 – 75cm in height and weighing between 45 – 70 kg. He has an almost bear-like appearance. His coat can be shortish or even fairly long, and in different colors such as white, tan, brindle, grey and cream with a black mask.

The puppies are born black and then lighten as they grow up. He has a large head with the muzzle being smaller than the skull, narrowing slightly. The nose is black and the ears are set high and are floppy with dark eyes. The tail is set high and is long.

Temperament:

The Caucasian Shepherd is an intelligent breed but he must be properly trained and socialized as he can be stubborn and want to go his own way.

He is a balanced dog and he won’t deliberately hurt whom he regards as family, but he shows distrust towards strangers. While socialization and training relax and calm a dog, the Caucasian Shepherd isn’t regarded as the best dog to have with children around. This is because he comes from a lineage of guard dogs, bred to fight and guard.

He is a dog breed that will require a firm, strong owner and if you don’t have a lot of time on your hands, the Caucasian can be difficult to manage and perhaps isn’t the best choice for a first-time dog owner.

leonberger puppy - descriptionAs 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.

Characteristics

caucasian shepherd dog - characteristicsLoyal, strong, and brave, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog does an excellent job protecting his human family. He is a territorial dog and in the past he has always been ready to take on wolves and bear to protect his sheep. He isn't the best choice for first time dog-owners and where there are small children in the home.

He will do well to be trained and socialized as he becomes an obedient, patient, gentle, loving pet that becomes an excellent companion and protector.

leonberger dog - characteristicsDon’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.

Health Problems

caucasian shepherd puppies - health problemsLike all breeds there may be some health issues, even though the Caucasian Shepherd is generally a healthy dog. There are some common illnesses that every dog can get and which every responsible dog owner should be aware of -

Diarrhea:

One or two episodes of diarrhea isn’t an emergency, but ongoing diarrhea can lead to dehydration. If your dog is vomiting, he is lethargic and constantly emptying his bowels, see your vet if the diarrhea persists.

Parasites:

Parasites such as fleas and ticks and even internal parasites such as intestinal worms can drain the life from your pet. It is wise to find out about different parasites so that you can protect your dog. Find out what your vet’s treatment options are for parasites.

leonberger puppies - health problemsLeonbergers 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.

Caring The Pet

caucasian shepherd dogs - caringThe Caucasian Shepherd Dog has a thick double coat that will certainly require brushing twice a week. The coat comes in different lengths – short, medium and long. The hair is mostly long and the long tail is also feathery. The best way to groom your large, furry pet is to invest in some good grooming tools such as a good brush to keep your pet’s hair in tip-top condition.

His nails will need to be trimmed regularly, his ears will also need to be checked to avoid wax build-up and the accumulation of grime. This can lead to an ear infection. His teeth should be brushed 2 or 3 times a week with special dog toothbrush and toothpaste.

Exercise:

The Caucasian Shepherd isn’t going to do well in a small home with tiny garden in the city. He is a big dog that will require a large yard even though he is a fairly low-energy dog. He will be suited to a family that is active, that will take him on daily walks, hikes and include some ball games.

Diet:

You will need to change your Caucasian Shepherd Dog’s food as he goes through the different phases of his life, from puppy to adulthood. Speak to your veterinarian about a commercially produced dog food is you’re unable to give him home-made food. These foods are available in breed-specific and age-specific formulas.

Reputable breeders will also help you ensure that you know how to start feeding your puppy. Caucasian Shepherds are a large breed and apart from their kibble, you’ll want to include rice, vegetables and cooked chicken from time to time in his kibble and also include raw meat occasionally.

If you're unsure, ask your veterinarian or breeder about the best diet to ensure his longevity. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.

leonberger dogs - caringThat 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.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Caucasian Shepherd vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Caucasian Shepherd vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Caucasian Shepherd vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Caucasian Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Caucasian Shepherd vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Caucasian Shepherd vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Caucasian Shepherd vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Caucasian Shepherd vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Caucasian Shepherd vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Caucasian Shepherd vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Caucasian Shepherd vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Caucasian Shepherd vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Caucasian Shepherd vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Caucasian Shepherd vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Caucasian Shepherd vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Caucasian Shepherd vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Caucasian Shepherd vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Caucasian Shepherd vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Caucasian Shepherd vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Caucasian Shepherd vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Caucasian Shepherd vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Caucasian Shepherd vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Caucasian Shepherd vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Caucasian Shepherd vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Caucasian Shepherd vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Leonberger vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Leonberger vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Leonberger vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Leonberger vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Leonberger vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Leonberger vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Leonberger vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Leonberger vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Leonberger vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Leonberger vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Leonberger vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Leonberger vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Leonberger vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Leonberger vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Leonberger vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Leonberger vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Leonberger vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Leonberger vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Leonberger vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Leonberger vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Leonberger vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Leonberger vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Leonberger vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Leonberger vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Leonberger vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison