☀️ Summer Care for Leonbergers
Leonbergers can tolerate warm weather, but their thick coats and large size can make them prone to overheating. In New Zealand, temperatures above 28°C can be particularly challenging for them, so it’s important to be proactive in helping them stay cool.
1. Keeping Cool Without Shaving
Shaving a Leonberger is not recommended—their double coat insulates them from both heat and sunburn. Instead:
- Brush regularly to remove dead undercoat and promote airflow.
- Provide cool resting areas out of direct sun.
- Hose them down with cool water during hot spells—at Leonrua, we often do this several times a day when it’s particularly warm.
2. Water Play is Essential
Leonbergers love water—and will take full advantage of it when given the chance!
- Plastic paddling pools are a summer favourite. Our dogs love lying down in them completely soaked—it’s one of the quickest and safest ways to cool down.
- Always provide fresh, cool drinking water.
- Supervised swims at the beach or lake are fantastic (just rinse off saltwater or chlorine afterwards).
3. Time Exercise Carefully
Avoid walking your Leo in the heat of the day (typically 11am–4pm).
- Stick to early morning or late evening strolls.
- Check ground temperatures—if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws.
4. Watch for Signs of Overheating
Even with precautions, Leonbergers can still overheat. Watch for:
- Excessive panting
- Drooling
- Lethargy or wobbliness
- Vomiting
Move your dog to a cool, shaded area and contact your vet if you notice these signs.
5. Parasite Awareness
While New Zealand is free from heartworm, fleas and ticks can be a problem in summer. Regular grooming and the use of a suitable flea and tick prevention plan recommended by your vet are important.
❄️ Winter Care for Leonbergers
Leonbergers were bred for cold European climates, and most absolutely love winter. But that doesn’t mean they’re immune to the challenges the season can bring—especially in wet or icy conditions.
1. Keep Their Coat in Top Shape
A thick, clean coat provides insulation.
- Regular brushing prevents matting and removes debris.
- Dry them thoroughly after wet walks or snowy play sessions to prevent skin issues.
2. Paw Care is Important
Wet, icy, or salted paths can irritate your dog’s feet.
- Trim the fur between paw pads to prevent ice buildup.
- Rinse and dry paws after walks.
- Consider a gentle paw balm if skin becomes cracked or dry.
3. Warmth for Puppies and Seniors
While adult Leos often thrive in cooler temps, puppies and older dogs may need extra support.
- Provide a warm, dry sleeping area off cold floors.
- Limit time outside during freezing or stormy weather.
4. Joint Support in Colder Months
Cold weather can make joint stiffness more noticeable in older dogs or those with early signs of joint issues.
- At Leonrua, we use glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM supplements as part of our proactive joint-care regimen.
- Gentle exercise and warm-up time before activity can also help.
5. Adjust Activity and Diet if Needed
Some Leonbergers remain very active in winter; others prefer a slower pace.
- Monitor their condition and adjust food portions if weight gain or loss is evident.
- Continue with regular training, games, and interaction indoors if outdoor play is limited.
🌿 Year-Round Essentials from Leonrua
- Nutrition: Feed a balanced, high-quality diet with variety—our dogs enjoy beef, specialist meat mixes, fish (including salmon and white fish), fresh vegetables, and daily fish oil tablets.
- Fruits and Veggies: Leos love carrots, apples, and blueberries. Ours have been known to sneak into the strawberry patch in search of ripe berries!
- Supplements: Along with joint support, we may add other natural supplements to support coat, digestion, and immunity.
- Mental and Physical Stimulation: Keep your Leonberger engaged year-round with enrichment activities, socialisation, and light training sessions.
At Leonrua, we believe caring for your Leonberger means adapting with the seasons and supporting their physical and emotional wellbeing. Whether they’re lounging in a paddling pool on a hot day or bounding joyfully through the snow, Leonbergers thrive when they’re cared for with intention, love, and understanding.
If you have any questions about seasonal care—or anything else—please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re always here to help you give your Leonberger the best life possible.
Warm wishes from the team at Leonrua Leonbergers 🐾
Nurturing the Heart and Heritage of the Leonberger
