Gesundheit, or good health, has been a goal of Leonberger breeders since the first litter was born in 1846. It was with gesundheit that breed founder, Heinrich Essig, sent his expensive puppies on long sea voyages all over the world.

Health and stable temperaments were key traits that led to the resurrection of the breed after World War I and their survival throughout World War II. Only those Leos and Leo-like dogs, with gesundheit built into their type, survived the rigors and deprivations of war.

As the breed took hold in the United Sates, there were US breeders that were passionately committed to health and willing to come together as a community.   They provided a vigorous “starter culture” and leadership that has remained pervasive for over a quarter of a century despite explosive growth and wide media attention for a rare breed.

The American Leonberger community has raised, to date, over $200,000 to support health research.  The Leonberger Health Foundation, with your support, will continue to participate with leading researchers throughout the world to promote studies to enhance the health of the Leonberger.