The Leonberger originated in Germany in the Black Forest area in the 1800's. The mayor of the town of Leonberg wanted a dog that looked like a lion, as in the town's coat of arms. The breed was developed using the Saint Bernard, the Newfoundland, and the Pyrenean Mountain Dog. It has inherited both the temperament of these noble giant dogs, and the love of water from its Newfoundland ancestors.

 The Leonberger (affectionately known as the Leo) is an intelligent dog that makes a great companion for adults and children alike. It is also gentle with other animals. This easy-going dog needs daily exercise to stay fit, either in the form of a moderate walk or short romp. Its coat needs combing twice weekly — more frequently when shedding. Leonbergers do not drool but can be messy drinkers as they love to play in water, even when it’s in a bowl!

The first Leonberger, named Cadillac arrived in New Zealand on January 1991. He was owned by Clare Thomas of Lejongardens Kennels. A year later a mate for Cadillac arrived. She was Leonberget’z Guns ‘N Roses (Kimpa). They produced two litters. The first producing only one puppy, a male named Phantom, the second resulted in six puppies. In June 1995 Clare imported an 18 month old bitch, Geps Big Bears She’s Leaving Home (Ronja). These dogs formed the foundations of the New Zealand Leonberger population. Since that time there have been a number of imports and many more litters born. There are now over 300 Leonbergers in New Zealand