This blog feature amusing and heartwarming stories about our late Leonberger dog Bronco, as well as other Leonbergers. It also has a lot of information about the Leonberger breed, the history, care, training, Leonberger organizations, etc. I also wrote a Leonberger book, which I am featuring in the sidebar.
Dogs give gifts and do nice things for people and other dogs. In this post I am describing three occasions when our late Leonberger Bronco gave our Pug Daisy gifts.
Leonberger Shares a Gingerbread House
Our Leonberger dog Bronco (his full name was Le Bronco von der Löwenhöhle) was an expert counter surfer, which is why we installed a pet gate to the entrance of our kitchen. Bronco knew how to open gates if they were not locked, so you had to make sure that you did not just close the gate but lock it. However, one December day I forgot to lock the gate. That was the day our daughter had made a gingerbread house and left it on the kitchen counter. Guess who ate half the gingerbread house? Guess who ate some of the other half? Bronco shared some with Daisy. He was always very generous. The photo below is what I saw when I got home that day.
The open gate behind Daisy and Bronco permitted their gingerbread-house raid.
Leonberger Shares a Baked Potato
I believe dogs have empathy, and sometimes they want to share—at least Bronco did. There was a time when we were in our home eating take-out food and Bronco stole one of our dinners, including meat, vegetables, and a baked potato. He started eating the meat, then he glanced at Daisy, who was sitting in the middle of the floor looking sad. Immediately he took the baked potato in his mouth and carried it over to her and dropped it right at her feet. I was going to get mad at him for stealing, but when I saw his kindhearted and unselfish act, I let it be.
Daisy our Pug was sitting there looking sad, but she got a baked potato with bacon and butter. I should say that the photo is from another occasion when she sat in front of the vent because she was cold. But it is close enough.
Leonberger Saves our Pug Daisy’s Life
On another occasion, Bronco did something else amazing for Daisy. Despite having issues with his paws—this was around the time he was being treated for squamous cell carcinoma—he saved Daisy from an attacking German shepherd who was running loose.
We were at my wife Claudia’s parents’ house, just leaving, standing on their driveway, when one of their neighbors came out to drop some garbage in the trash can at the end of her driveway. With her was a young, probably adolescent, German shepherd, and he was not on a leash. As we were standing on the porch, I suddenly saw the shepherd flying through the bushes, his teeth bared. He quickly charged us—viciously.
First, he went for Daisy, but Bronco got between them to protect her. Essentially, Bronco saved her life. The shepherd bit his leg in return. Bronco was almost twelve when this happened, and he was not as strong as he used to be. A German shepherd would have been an easy opponent for Bronco just a few years earlier, but at that point he was old, and he did not need the extra stress.
I kicked the German shepherd in the stomach, and he ran off. Bronco’s legs were weak—he had recently had a toe operation, and his walking was unsteady—so seeing the shepherd going for the leg on which he had had his operation was very upsetting. The shepherd could have bitten me, of course, and I could have been severely injured, but I didn’t care. I was defending my dogs—who were all on a leash, by the way. If the shepherd had bitten me, the owner could have been criminally charged, and there could have been a lawsuit
The owner of the shepherd came over to apologize, but I cursed at her. Maybe I shouldn’t have, but she had a vicious and dangerous dog, and she intentionally let him run loose. In the end, though, there were no major injuries. Bronco’s leg was slightly hurt, but overall, he was fine. These days, whenever we talk about this incident, I jokingly refer to the neighbor dog as Cujo. I should say that we’ve had a German Shepherd who was a sweetheart, so this is story is in no way an attempt to disparage German Shepherds. They are typically wonderful dogs as well.
In conclusion, this third example was an example of Bronco giving up his safety and potential health to protect our Pug Daisy.
Dogs are living conscious beings, and they should not be mistreated, hurt or treated disrespectfully. For example, don’t allow kids to play rough with dogs or take their food. Do not hit them. Do not push their face towards the feces when they have an accident inside the house. There is a widespread false misconception that you should. Again, respect your dog.
Do not keep them outside for a long time in the heat or cold. Do not abandon them, especially not to the wild where they will not survive. When your dog gets old, slow and boring, take care of it. You can get a new puppy but do not ever replace an old dog with a puppy. Doing so is cruel and immoral. Dogs deserve your respect.
This may be self-evident to most dog owners. However, I have seen people do these things to dogs and worse, so it bears repeating.
Do not let kids or Puppies Pull a Dog’s Tail
Playing with a dog is, of course, fine. They love running after balls and other toys and having fun in the backyard, playing with kids and other dogs. However, having their tail pulled is not their version of fun and it can cause a dog to bite. I am guilty of this myself. When I was a kid, I pulled the tail of my uncle’s dog and I almost got bitten. When our mini-Australian Shepherd Rollo was still a puppy he sometimes pestered our Leonberger Bronco by pulling his tail and even dangling in it like a swing. We did not allow this, but accidents happened. Luckily Bronco was very patient with Rollo, and he let us know when there was tail biting mischief under way so that we could remove Rollo.
Rollo, our mini-Australian Shepherd, frequently bit our Leonberger Bronco’s tail, and he even swung in it like a swing. He climbed all over Bronco. Bronco was very patient with him. Naturally, we did not allow this, but accidents happened.
Do not let kids ride big dogs
Do not allow children to ride big dogs like a horse. This could cause severe spinal injuries to the dog because their backs aren’t built for weight. The dog may also bite the kid to defend itself.
Don’t allow. This is very dangerous to the dog as well as the kid as the dog may bite. The dog in the picture is a Leonberger. This image was generated with the help of AI/ChatGPT.
Dogs Get Lonely
Don’t leave dogs alone for extended periods of time. Dogs need to potty, they need interaction, they get lonely and anxious. It is typically fine to leave an adult dog at home for a couple of hours but much longer than that could be a problem. If the dog goes potty on the floor when home alone for a long time, well that is not the dog’s fault. You clean it up and apologize to the dog.
A lonely Australian Shepherd looking out the window. This image was generated with the help of AI/ChatGPT.Rollo is looking out the window. We don’t leave him for very long but when we do he sits and looks out the window. You can see the reflection of me taking the photo and of the neighborhood in the window.
It is a little bit better when dogs have the company of each other.
Daisy’s and Rollo’s knock knock joke.
Hugs May not be Welcome
Perhaps surprisingly most dogs find hugs uncomfortable and stressful because they restrict their natural “flight” instinct and make them feel threatened, even though humans see it as affection. Our Leonberger gave us Leonberger hugs, meaning he leaned on us, or pressed his body against us, but like most dogs he probably did not like human arms around his body. If you put your arms around a dog they may start licking their lips, yawning, or even trying to get away. These are stress signals. If they lick your face in this situation, it is not likely to be a kiss, but attempted appeasement. Essentially, the dog wants to please you, but he is wondering why you are mean by giving him a hug without his consent.
Hugs may not be welcome. Watch for lip licking and other stress signals when kids do this. Perhaps ask the kid not to squeeze the dog with his arms. This image was generated with the help of AI/ChatGPT.
In the picture below our Leonberger Bronco is reaching out to me to give me a hug, as I entered the room, but maybe I should not have put my arm around him. I should say Bronco was a very tolerant dog.
Bronco our Leonberger is giving me a kiss, or is it? He is about one year old and not yet fully grown.
To learn more about the complex question of dog hugs you can watch the 8 minute video below.
In summary, Respect Your Dog
To visit a related post, Promises To My Dog, click here.
A professional content writer specializing in animal healthcare and veterinary topics by the name Emma Johnson contacted me about publishing veterinary information on my Leonberger blog, which I am certainly happy to assist with. Check out her article below.
This photo tile includes a photo of our Leonberger Bronco wearing a birthday hat on his 11th birthday, our mini-Australian Shepherd biting our Leonbergers tail, our Leonberger Bronco wearing a cone and accidentally clearing the table of its content, a friends funny photo of Leonbergers Digory and Obi (by Jen O’Keefe) and a shutter stock photo of two light colored Leonberger puppies playing. Shutterstock-ID: 2141564415 by AnetaZabranska.
Article by Emma Johnson
The Leonberger is a friendly giant known for its kind temperament and large size. These beautiful dogs are wonderful companions, but their size can affect their health to some extent. Leonberger health challenges must be well understood by owners and veterinary professionals so that the lives of the big dogs are as healthy and happy as possible.
This article tackles the biggest problems and lays out preventive care options to protect these dogs. It is simpler to know what to anticipate and how to avoid these issues. Let us begin by finding out about some of the most common diseases that occur to Leonbergers.
Understanding Common Leonberger Diseases
Leonbergers suffer from many diseases. They can be joint issues, heart issues, hip dysplasia, eye issues, and skin allergies. These issues arise over time; therefore, prevention and detection at an early age are crucial.
In such situations, periodic examinations are advised by veterinarians, and collaboration with the dog’s owners is recommended. Prevention is all about good food, exercise, and periodic check-ups from the veterinarian.
We will learn how genetic problems in Leonbergers are addressed and how actively they can be dealt with.
Genetic Issues in Leonbergers and How to Deal with Them
Breed history and size are the main causes for genetic issues in Leonbergers. These are directly affecting Leonberger’s lifespan and general health. Prevention is achieved through education and proper care.
Genetic risks and prevention include:
Hip dysplasia: Select sound breeders who screen for hip wellness. Keep your dog at a healthy weight and encourage low-impact play.
Elbow dysplasia: Refrain from overexercising and ensure proper nutrition.
Heart issues: Have regular cardiac check-ups and watch for activity levels.
Eye issues: Have regular eye exams and maintain eye cleanliness.
Pre-treatment of genetics, through both breeding selection and preventive maintenance, lowers the risk of major issues. Let’s discuss the big picture now: Leonberger lifespan and health.
Leonberger Lifespan and Health
The average lifespan of a Leonberger is 8 to 10 years. Big dogs tend to have a shorter lifespan, but with proper preventive care, it can be extended.
Suggestions from experts are:
Balanced meal plan that is rich in nutrients
Weight management to minimize joint stress
Low-impact exercise
Routine visits to the veterinarian for the detection of diseases in early stages
Pro Tip: In case of emergencies and accidents, effective veterinary bandaging skills are priceless. They prevent infection, protect wounds, and promote faster healing. Thus, both pet owners and vets must improve their veterinary bandaging skills.
A regular schedule of preventive care and practical first aid skills is the key to maintaining a Leonberger’s health and longevity. This includes treatment of Leonberger joint problems, the most common health problem of the breed.
Preventing Leonberger Joint Problems:
Leonberger joint problems, including arthritis, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia, are among the most common health issues this breed will encounter. Prevention starts with proper weight. Excess pounds put extra pressure on joints and worsen conditions.
Early focus on joint maintenance makes prevention easy. That inevitably centers on the role of exercise and diet.
Exercise and Nutrition
Low-impact activity, such as controlled walking or swimming, provides joint mobility without overloading. A balanced diet with proper nutritional intake is also a must. In consultation with a veterinarian, supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin may also be employed to maintain joint health.
These lifestyle modifications fortify the joints but are optimally used when complemented by regular veterinary visits.
Regular Checkups
Orthopedic examinations should be conducted regularly to identify problems before they cause damage. Regularity in these preventive check-ups can keep your Leonberger comfortable and active for life.
With joint maintenance underway, attention now must turn to another essential area of health: the heart.
Prevention of Leonberger Heart Problems:
Leonberger heart problems, particularly dilated cardiomyopathy, can advance with no apparent symptoms, and thus, prevention is important.
Diet and Lifestyle
Daily check-ups, a healthy diet, and regular exercise maintain the heart in good health. Avoid stress and overexertion.
Preventive measures at home are required. Periodic veterinary check-ups should be organized, nevertheless.
Early Detection Of Symptoms
Be vigilant for signs of exhaustion, cough, or respiratory deviation. Seek the advice of a veterinarian if there are any concerning signs in the pet. Early diagnosis significantly enhances the prospects of success.
Strong hips also contribute to overall heart health. Therefore, the same care and attention should be given to prevent hip dysplasia.
Prevention of Leonberger Hip Dysplasia:
Leonberger hip dysplasia is an abnormal development of the hip joints that leads to pain and loss of mobility. Prevention is early.
Breeding and Early Life Care
Seek out breeders who conduct hip soundness testing. Keeping your Leonberger lean and limiting high-impact exercise will help to build and develop joints. High-quality breeding, proper early care, and frequent veterinary check-ups are key to a long, healthy life for your Leonberger.
Early Veterinary Care
Prompt discovery can make a huge difference in comfort and mobility. Be mindful of the signs of discomfort in your pet. If the dog shows hesitation in movement, exercise, or play, it’s a sign of concern.
Moreover, watch out for signs of exhaustion after minor physical activity. Symptoms such as limping and whining while walking shouldn’t be ignored. A physical examination should be scheduled immediately to pinpoint the exact cause of pain and discomfort.
After the hips are healthy, vision care is the next priority of preventative care. We’ll cover that in the next section.
Preventing Leonberger Eye Problems:
Vision care is a cornerstone of your Leonberger’s overall health, making them comfortable and independent in their golden years. Healthy eyes enable them to be confident and active on a daily basis. Preventive care today can save a lot of stress and treatment down the road.
Common Eye Issues
Leonbergers can be susceptible to vision and comfort-degrading issues like cataracts and entropion. Cloudiness or tearing must be noticed early on. Regular veterinary eye examinations ensure early detection is probable and help maintain their quality of life in balance.
By being attentive to common vision issues and regular hygiene, you can protect your Leonberger’s eyesight and health.
Hygiene and Care
Eye cleaning prevents infection and irritation. Easy grooming, such as wiping off discharge and watching for redness, can be a big help. A quick response when there is any sign of irritation prevents problems from getting out of control.
Finally, let’s discuss how genetic testing can help with coping with Leonberger health problems.
Breeding Considerations
Genetic testing is the key to avoiding inherited eye conditions. Selecting breeders who prioritize vision preserves generations to come. Healthy vision is as crucial to mobility as it is to overall well-being.
Caring for vision maintains independence, but caring for healthy skin maintains comfort and well-being. Preventing skin allergies is covered in the next section.
Preventing Leonberger Skin Allergies:
Skin health is a part of overall well-being in your Leonberger. Healthy skin not only avoids pain but also prevents infection and irritation. Preventive care involves frequent grooming, attention to hygiene, and vigilance.
Causes of Skin Allergies
Environmental factors, food allergy, or parasites are the causative agents of Leonbergers’ skin allergies. Early diagnosis of causes prevents long-term complications.
It is through preventive measures that you need to take steps to make your dog stress-free and comfortable.
Skin Care Routine
Daily brushing and grooming eliminate dirt, allergens, and loose hair that irritate the skin. Hypoallergenic shampoos and conditioners soothe the skin and avoid flare-ups. A balanced diet containing omega fatty acids also maintains a healthy coat and skin.
Early Care
Skin problems must never be overlooked, as they can quickly become long-term problems. Coordination with your vet for regular checkups ensures that issues are addressed on time.
Preventive skin care is an important element of preventive health. Coordination of these practices ensures your Leonberger has a long, happy, and healthy life.
Preventive Care Checklist for Leonbergers, as suggested by the veterinarian
Here is a brief preventive care checklist for Leonbergers:
Work towards maintaining your dog’s healthy weight to keep them overall healthy.
Encourage your dog to perform low-impact exercises.
Turn outdoor play into a regular activity.
Undergo genetic tests to identify hereditary risks before breeding.
Check for dental and skin health to avoid infections and discomfort.
Get regular vaccinations and parasite control for complete preventive care.
Utilize a veterinary AI scribe to document, monitor, and maintain patient information efficiently.
Regular wellness visits detect health problems in Leonbergers. Regular checkups screen for inherited disorders, evaluate weight and exercise requirements, and examine the condition of joints, hips, eyes, heart, and skin. Personalized care plans maintain your dog in good health, averting significant problems.
With all said regarding the Leonberger health problems and how to prevent them, let us now summarize with the closing thoughts.
Final Thoughts
Preventive care is the key to a happy and healthy Leonberger. Regular wellness visits, individualized care plans, and gentle treatment of injuries all combine to provide a long, active life. Prevention is always preferable to the cure. It’s preferable to be proactive about the typical health issues in Leonbergers in order to be able to stop them.
A proactive care approach keeps your Leonberger healthy, comfortable, and active.
FAQs:
What are the most common Leonberger health problems?
The most common Leonberger health problems include joint issues, heart conditions, eye problems, and skin allergies. They affect mobility, comfort, and general well-being. Preventative care and routine veterinary check-ups help keep these dangers at bay efficiently.
How can I prevent Leonberger joint problems?
Prevention of Leonberger joint problems starts with proper weight maintenance, nutrition, and regular low-impact exercise. Routine early orthopedic checks help detect problems before they progress. Preventive breeding matters too.
How often should Leonberger’s eyes be examined?
Every Leonberger checkup should include a regular eye examination. Owners should also watch for redness, cloudiness, or watery discharge. Early detection of Leonberger eye problems prevents catastrophic vision loss.
What is the average Leonberger lifespan and health expectancy?
The average Leonberger lifespan and health is 8–10 years, but preventive care can improve the quality of life. Proper living routines and regular veterinary visits are the key. Identifying health issues early on ensures healthier and longer years.
Author Bio:
Emma Johnson is a professional content writer specializing in animal healthcare and veterinary topics. Her work provides pet owners and veterinarians with insightful, well-researched information to improve animal care.
Just a few minutes before I saw Esther Chilton’s writing prompt “club” I received my annual invoice for our family membership in the Leonberger Club of America. What a great reminder to pay my bill and create a post about the Leonberger Club of America. We haven’t had a Leonberger since the summer of 2020 when our Leonberger Bronco, or Le Bronco von der Löwenhöhle passed away. However, we’ve kept our membership because I love their LeoLetter magazine, I know some people, I have this blog, and I wrote a book about our Leonberger and the Leonberger breed after the passing of Bronco (see the side bar on the right or click here for more information).
The Leonberger Club of America
I can add that the Leonberger Club of America, LCA for short, is the official national parent club for the Leonberger breed in the United States (and Canada). It was founded in 1985. Its mission is to preserve and promote the health, temperament, and original type of the Leonberger through education, events, performance programs, and social engagement. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes the LCA as the official Leonberger breed club in the United States.
The Leonberger Club of America make sure that the Leonberger dogs are protected. You are about as likely to find a Leonberger at Petland/Puppy-Mill as you are finding an Elephant for sale there. You typically buy/get a Leonberger dog from an LCA certified Leonberger breeder or from the Leonberger Rescue Pals, and if you don’t that might be a problem. Leonberger breeders interview prospective Leonberger owners and make sure they are a good fit. If you are found to have mistreated a dog in the past, turned one into a shelter, or sold one on an auction, you cannot buy a Leonberger. The breeders are also required to take back the dog if it does not work out. To see the transcript from our Leonberger interview, click here.
We bought our Leonberger Bronco (Le Bronco von der Löwenhöhle) in 2007 from Julie Schaffert, a certified LCA breeder since 1992. This is a photo of him at three months old.
There are only about 3,000 Leonbergers in North America and about 2,000 Leonbergers in the United States but the Leonberger Club of America has more than 1,000 members. They publish the Leo-Letter, a quarterly Leonberger magazine. So, the Leonberger Club of America has a very prominent place among Leonberger owners. Click here to see a summary of the Leonberger Breed Standard.
Leonbergers have a long history in North America and the United States—despite the fact that until 1985, there were only seventeen Leonbergers known to be living in the United States. See: Lusby, Leonberger, page 15.
Leonberger, Special Rare-Breed Edition, A Comprehensive Owners Guide, Madeline Lusby
In the 1870s, Leonbergers were brought to Newfoundland to invigorate the stock of Newfoundland dogs. Around the same time, two Leonbergers named Caesar and Sultan were purchased from Heinrich Essig’s kennel (founder of the Leonberger breed) and transported across the ocean to join the Wellesley-Sterling theater company in the United States as the stars of their productions. Then in 1879, Caesar and Sultan visited President Ulysses S. Grant, who called them the largest and most magnificent dogs he had ever seen and presented them with gold medals. During the years between World War I and World War II, a New Jersey family, the Wolfs, opened their home as a temporary refuge for Jews fleeing Germany: they also imported Leonbergers. Unfortunately, this introduction of the breed into the United States did not last, and it would be another fifty years before the Leonberger appeared in America again.
Leonberger, A comprehensive guide to the lion king of breeds, Caroline Bliss-Isberg
During the late 1970s and the 1980s, a few families—Waltraut and Klaus Zieher, Brian Peters, Manfred and Sylvia Kaufmann, Keri Campbell and Melanie Brown, and Mary and Reiner Decher brought Leonbergers to the United States. The Dechers had started a breeding program and were looking for a mate for their first dam, Viona. By chance their neighbor discovered through a newsletter that there was another Leonberger in the United States, and that led to the families’ finding and connecting with one another. I should add that the Dechers were careful to conform to the German breeding regulations and performed hip X-rays that they then submitted to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). Viona became the first OFA-certified Leonberger in America.
See: Bliss-Isberg, Leonberger, page 152.
On Saturday, November 2, 1985, eight of these Leonberger enthusiasts met at a hotel in Denver, Colorado, to found the Leonberger Club of America (LCA). This group of founders, which has since been dubbed the Denver Eight, appointed a registrar, formulated a breeding acceptability checklist, and instituted various policies, including the requirement that OFA certification is mandatory for breeding. LCA membership grew: it held social gatherings, began publishing LeoLetter, and imported an increasing number of dogs. Now the LCA has thousands of members across the country, and Leonbergers receive high ratings on health tests relative to other large breeds. For example, in 2000, the OFA reported that only 14.6 percent of Leonbergers tested positive for hip dysplasia, compared to 47 percent of Saint Bernards.
Founding of the Leonberger Health Foundation International
Another important historical event was the founding of the Leonberger Health Foundation International (LHFI), in 2000 (it was just called the Leonberger Health Foundation back then). According to its website, the organization was founded by Waltraut Zieher and other memers of the LCA’s health, education, and research committee to “facilitate the solicitation and distribution of donations given to support health related breed-specific research.” The LHFI also administers a program that collects DNA samples from Leonbergers to share with universities and research institutions, and of course it administers the Grey Muzzle Award (long living Leonbergers). Our Leonberger Bronco was a recipient of the Grey Muzzle Award, and we provided them with his DNA.
Bronco’s Grey Muzzle Award, which he received for being an unusually long lived Leonberger.
LHFI’s global biobank contains DNA samples from more than nine thousand Leonbergers. Among the organization’s notable achievements are the eradication of Addison’s disease among Leonbergers and the raising of nearly half a million dollars for research into conditions that affect canine health, including osteosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma, glaucoma, cardiac diseases, thyroid diseases, and neurological disorders. Its research also supports healthful longevity and aging as well as population diversity. Another success is the fact that since 2011, no Leonbergers with two copies of the LPN1 gene mutation (which causes Leonberger polyneuropathy) have been recorded in LHFI’s biobank. LHFI is one of my favorite charities.
The Dog Wars of America
The end of the twentieth century marked not only the end of the Cold War but also the beginning of what I call the Dog Wars of America. In 1985, the American Kennel Club (AKC) registry comprised one-third of the world’s known dog breeds. But the AKC had recognized only a few new breeds since 1887—a period of ninety-eight years. So, the organization decided to change that policy, but this did not always go smoothly. The members of rare-breed clubs often did not want to be part of the AKC. For example, the Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA) was very reluctant to join, so a relatively small splinter group, the United States Australian Shepherd Association, was formed and designated the official member club of the AKC, which was not welcome news to the ASCA. The border collie is another example. Charles Krauthammer, the late political columnist, called the AKC the politburo of American dog breeding.
See: Bliss-Isberg, Leonberger, page 159.
Similarly, in 2003, a new Leonberger club was formed—the Leonberger Club of the United States—with the goal of becoming the Leonberger member club of the AKC. This essentially forced the LCA’s hand, so they applied for membership in the AKC, a process that took years to complete. But ultimately the AKC approved the LCA as members in 2010: Leonbergers would officially become part of the Working Group. Fortunately, 90 percent of LCA breeders agreed to continue following LCA regulations regardless of whether the club would remain independent or become part of the AKC. Also fortunately, AKC membership afforded more opportunities for Leonbergers to participate in dog shows, which is important to many owners.
See: Bliss-Isberg, Leonberger, page 187
For more information on the history of the Leonberger starting in 1830’s click here.
On the left our Leonberger Bronco at three months old. On the right Bronco as an unusually old Leonberger at almost 13.Bronco our Leonberger is giving me a kiss. He is about one year old and not yet fully grown.Seven Leonbergers by the beach. Photo by Jen O’Keefe.
Something amazing happened this evening. I was watching a movie, Lion, about an Indian boy, Saroo who gets lost far away from home. He and his brother were riding trains, and they got separated. He is unable to get back home and ends up in an orphanage and is eventually adopted by a loving Australian family. However, once he becomes a successful adult in Australia, he sets out to find his biological family in India, a sort of mission impossible. I know it is not something parents of adopted children are thrilled about, but he has their blessing to go and try to find them anyway. It is a beautiful movie based on a true story and it is one of the most emotive and touching movies I’ve ever seen. I’ve seen the movie before, but it is difficult, even for me, not to get a bit emotional towards the end of the movie. I highly recommend the movie if you have not seen it. But you may need a tissue box.
I am sitting in the sofa, being a bit emotional, but I don’t think I was very emotional. I don’t think it was obvious. Rollo, our mini-Australian Shepherd is sitting in the same sofa, a few feet away. I look over at him and I see his big round sad eyes staring at me as he is tilting his head. I can see the love and concern in his eyes. He slowly comes over to me, lays his paw on my leg for a bit while looking into my eyes. Then he lays down next to me and pushes his body towards my leg as if to comfort me. It just felt exactly as if that was what he was doing. He was trying to comfort me. I wasn’t really sad, but the movie was touching my heart. So, I guess my feeling was pretty close to sadness.
This is Rollo. I don’t have a photo of him from today’s experience. This photo is from a different occasion when Rollo did not look happy because we told him we are leaving.
Can dogs sense when we are sad?
It is not just Rollo. Our Leonberger Bronco, our pug Daisy and our other dogs showed on several occasions that they could sense our feelings. When one of us was sad they tried to comfort. Especially Bronco was very sensitive to people’s feelings, and he tried to comfort. When our Japanese Chin Ryu died, we were sad, and Bronco and Daisy were sad, and I believe they could sense our sadness. The whole house was in mourning, including the dogs.
I can add that Leonbergers are known to be loving dogs and are especially in tune with people’s feelings. That is why they are very often used as therapy dogs. Dogs can even use their amazing sense of smell to detect emotions in people. “Can Dogs Sense Human Emotions?” is is an excellent article from “the Vets” on the topic. Check out the section under “Can dogs sense when we are sad? ”. I think you can recognize what just happened with Rollo. This is another interesting article from VCA Animal Hospitals. This post features a video about a therapy Leonberger called Scout.
Me and our Leonberger Bronco when he was young. He is giving me a hug.
Dogs can sense and detect a lot of things, our emotions, mood, fear, whether you are pregnant or not, illness, cancer, diabetes, whether you are a negative person, whether you are about to have a seizure, the weather, and they have an amazing sense of smell. You can read more about that here.
Recently Rollo impressed me with his amazing sense of smell. You can read about that here. Guess who had a truly amazing sense of smell? That was Bronco our Leonberger. You can read about that in the same post.
The veterinary Amelia Baker sent me another blog post she wanted me to publish. So, this is a second guest blog. This time the topic is not geared towards only Leonberger dogs but dogs and pets in general. The topic is Corneal Ulcers in Pets (Symptoms, Causes & Care). I should say that we have been lucky. None of our dogs have had corneal ulcers. Check out her article below.
Article by Amelia Baker
Learn the signs of corneal ulcers in dogs, cats, and horses. Spot early symptoms, discover causes, and explore treatment options to protect pet vision.
Corneal Ulcers in Pets (Symptoms, Causes & Care)
What if that cute little wink your dog gives isn’t really a wink? What if your cat’s sudden sensitivity to sunlight is more than just moodiness? These small changes could be the beginning of a painful corneal ulcer in pets. Every day you wait makes it worse.
The tricky part is that the pets can’t tell that their eyes hurt. At times, a small scratch can turn into a corneal ulcer emergency for dogs. Similarly, a slight tear in the cornea can leave cats with corneal ulcers hiding in plain sight. Horses can also suffer from this medical condition.
That’s why understanding corneal symptoms in dogs or spotting a corneal ulcer in cats can make all the difference.
As a pet owner or a veterinarian, you might have wondered how to tell if it’s just a scratch or something more serious. In this article, we will discover how to recognize, treat, and prevent corneal ulcers in pets of various species. By the end, you’ll feel more confident in protecting your canine, feline, or even equine vision.
Before we get into treatment, let’s first understand what a corneal ulcer really is.
What Exactly Is a Corneal Ulcer?
The cornea is the transparent, protective layer at the front of the eye. When it gets damaged from trauma, infection, or any disease, the wound is known as a corneal ulcer.
In dogs, you’ll often hear terms like dog eye corneal ulcer or canine corneal ulcer. It is a common occurrence in dogs to suffer from this condition. They mostly occur as a result of trauma or injury. However, in cats, viral causes and infections lead to corneal ulcers.
As for horses, especially for performance breeds, corneal ulcers are a common issue due to their outdoor lifestyle and their exposure to dust.
While the condition varies among the species, the basic problem is consistent. A break in the corneal surface can become more serious if it is not treated in time.
Now that you know what it is, the next step is identifying the symptoms in pets.
Recognizing Symptoms Before It’s Too Late
So, how can you spot a corneal ulcer? The signs are often clear if you know what to look out for.
Constant blinking or squinting
Red or watery eyes
Pawning or rubbing at their faces
Cloudiness in the cornea
Sudden sensitivity to light
A dog with a corneal ulcer might not want to play fetch. A cat with a corneal ulcer may avoid sunny and bright windows. Horses could leave one eye half-closed and act strangely during training. These subtle signs may indicate that the body needs help.
Spotting symptoms is just the start. What really matters is how quickly you act. If left untreated, corneal ulcers can lead to serious complications, including permanent blindness.
So, what causes the corneal ulcer in the first place?
Common Causes of Corneal Ulcers in Pets
The triggers are varied and are sometimes preventable.
Physical trauma, such as scratches from claws, grass seeds, or foreign objects, can cause issues.
Infections can also be a factor, including bacterial, viral, or fungal ones.
Certain breeds are more likely to develop problems, especially flat-faced breeds that tend to get dry eyes.
Underlying eye diseases like entropion or keratoconjunctivitis sicca.
For cats, viral infections like feline herpesvirus are common causes. In dogs, especially brachycephalic breeds, the shape of the eye and incomplete eyelid closure play a role. Horses, on the other hand, face daily exposure to dust and outdoor particles.
Knowing the cause helps guide treatment. It also highlights why education is important. Veterinarians can stay ahead by watching a Veterinary Ophthalmology webinar, which explores diagnosis and treatment techniques in detail.
This leads us to the next question every pet owner asks: What happens if my pet is diagnosed with a corneal ulcer?
Treatment and Care Options
Thankfully, most ulcers can be treated if they are caught early. Treatment often depends on the severity of the condition.
Complicated ulcers: surgical intervention, such as conjunctival grafts.
Supportive care: Elizabethan collars to prevent rubbing.
In equine and canine patients, timely intervention is important to prevent progression into a melting ulcer. It is possible with the right veterinary knowledge and care.
For veterinarians, staying informed through free webinars on veterinary continuing education helps them keep up with the latest surgical techniques and medications. For pet owners, the message is clear: never delay a vet visit if your pet shows signs of eye discomfort.
But beyond treatment, prevention and awareness are equally important.
Prevention: Protecting Vision Before It’s Lost
Prevention often relies on being watchful and taking steps to care for your adorable pet. Regular eye checks, safe spaces without sharp objects, and quick vet visits at the first sight of discomfort can lower all risks.
To elevate your knowledge, consider joining a pet eye health webinar or reading preventive tips. At the same time, veterinarians who attend online vet CE sessions and pet webinars on corneal ulcers can learn to manage cases with the confidence that comes from updated knowledge.
After all, protecting an eye is easier than trying to restore sight once it’s lost.
Final Thoughts
Your pet’s eyes aren’t just organs. They are windows into how they see, play, and connect with you. When a dog with a corneal ulcer avoids his favorite game, or when a cat with a corneal ulcer retreats into darkness, it becomes more than a medical issue. It also affects their quality of life.
The good news is that with awareness, quick action, and the proper care, most pets recover. Free sponsored webinars on corneal ulcers in pets can improve your veterinary knowledge by offering the latest techniques and insights to manage complex cases.
So, the next time you see watery eyes, constant blinking, or strange behavior, don’t ignore them. They can point to something bigger: a corneal ulcer. Acting today can save your pet’s sight in the future.
When it comes to the eye health of pets, staying alert is not optional. It’s a commitment we make to the animals who rely on us.
FAQs
Q: What is the 3-2-1 rule for corneal ulcers?
The 3-2-1 rule helps determine when urgent care is necessary. If an ulcer doesn’t improve within 3 days, hasn’t healed in 2 weeks, or gets worse after just one day, it’s a warning sign. This straightforward rule helps determine both owners and vets that seeking help early is essential for protecting a pet’s vision.
Q: Can corneal ulcers heal on their own in pets?
No, corneal ulcers never heal properly without treatment. Even small ulcers can deepen and get infected over time. This can lead to vision loss. Pets need veterinary care to prevent the problem from becoming severe.
Q: What would cause an ulcer in a pet’s eye?
Several factors can cause an ulcer in your pet’s eyes. The trauma caused to the eyes, debris and dirt, and several diseases can lead to an ulcer. Moreover, breed-related problems such as dry eye or entropion also increase the risk.
Q: What is the best treatment for corneal ulcers?
Treatment depends on the severity and species. Mild ulcers usually respond to antibiotic drops, lubricants, and pain relief. In more advanced cases, surgery may be the only possible solution. Collaborating with a veterinarian helps create the right care plan to protect the vision of your pet.
To visit Amanda Baker’s previous post Vet Approved Leonberger Diet Tips for Health click here
A veterinary by the name Amelia Baker contacted me about publishing diet tips for Leonbergers on my Leonberger blog, and I said yes. So, this is a guest blog. She is not selling anything. It is just her way of trying to improve the diet of Leonbergers. As some of you know, Leonbergers are big, but we succeeded in overfeeding him anyway at one point. Our Leonberger Bronco was 167lbs and we needed to get him back down to 140lbs, his idea weight, and that was not easy. Check out her article below.
This photo tile includes a photo of our Leonberger Bronco when he was three months old, a friend’s funny Leonberger photo (by Jen O’Keefe) and a shutter stock photo of ten Leonberger puppies with mama Shutterstock-ID: 561107650 by Akbudak Rimma.
Article by Amelia Baker
Vet-Approved Leonberger Diet Tips for Puppies, Adults & Seniors
Get essential Leonberger diet advice from vets. Find out what to feed Leonberger puppies, adults, and seniors to support strong joints and a healthy weight.
In this article, we’ll discuss Leonberger diet tips for puppies, adults, and seniors, address common health concerns, and offer practical feeding strategies. There is a gracious reserve to the Leonberger, the sort of dog that will not beg for attention but will not be denied it.
With their monumental height, sensitive eyes, and calmness, they bring comfort to families and respect to any clinic that understands how to treat them. But size, as we are used to, has its drawbacks.
For Leonbergers, much of that baggage manifests in joints, stomachs, and pounds. Their dietary needs are not just special; they’re critical. As a veterinarian, it is our duty to create nutrition not just for their size but also for the Leonberger’s life stage, health risks, and individual metabolic quirks.
So, let’s explore a few veterinarian-recommended Leonberger diet tips one by one.
Feeding Leonberger Puppies
A Leonberger puppy may look like a bear cub in a dog suit, but inside that fluff is a musculoskeletal system working overtime to keep up with its own growth. Veterinarians can see it happen too often: pet parents overfeed because they think a big dog means more food.
But with Leonbergers, slow feeding is always a good option. Undoubtedly, fast feeding to a Leonberger is a one-way ticket to early-onset hip dysplasia and elbow instability.
Leonberger Diet Tips And Guidelines
Stick to large-breed puppy food only. It will maintain calcium and phosphorus levels to avoid uneven bone growth.
Watch calories closely. Plan for consistent, not rapid, growth.
Include DHA and omega-3 fatty acids to promote early brain development.
Take 3 to 4 small meals daily for six months and taper off to twice a day by 12 months.
Skip supplements unless advised by a doctor. Too much calcium is as bad as too little.
The Leonberger diet for the puppy stage must sound more prescriptive than advisory. Don’t simply suggest a product; discuss why each ingredient is important, from joint maintenance to digestive protection.
Keep Up Feeding Adult Leonbergers Without Excess
By 18 to 24 months, most Leonbergers reach their adult size, and that’s when the feeding approach needs to shift from build to maintain. But diet balance isn’t as simple as it sounds, especially when you’re dealing with a breed that’s prone to weight gain, bloat, and early joint degeneration.
What to Focus On in Adult Leonbergers
Moderate fat and high-quality protein. Use lean meats like turkey and fish. Steer clear of fatty food items.
Select joint-friendly foods that contain glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3s.
Monitor portion sizes. Consider feeding guides by ideal weight, not actual weight.
Don’t free-feed. Feed two times daily to reduce potential bloat.
Supplement with digestive enzymes or probiotics if needed to improve digestion.
By this stage, Leonberger meals should have functional components, and thus, food now starts to act as a tool to avert aging-induced degeneration. Older Leonbergers may continue to have the temperament of a puppy but not the speed.
Rigidness in joints, loss of appetite, or the development of cognitive decline make nutrition the key to ensuring quality of life.
Diet Changes for Senior Leonberger
Choose senior canine foods with low fat but high fiber.
Add antioxidants (vitamins C and E) for immunity and neurological function.
Add fish oil for inflammation purposes.
Reduce the digestive load with soaked kibble or lightly cooked meals.
Manage monthly and monitor accordingly.
For seniors, in particular, Leonberger dietary tips extend beyond food; they are about comfort, longevity, and not placing undue stress on aging systems.
Should You Suggest a Leonberger Raw Food Diet?
You’ve probably had clients ask about it. Raw feeding continues to gain popularity, particularly among owners of large-breed dogs. While there are some anecdotal benefits, the Leonberger raw food diet is only safe when meticulously balanced and well-planned.
Pros of Raw Diet for Leonberger
Better coat condition
Fewer processed ingredients
Improved appetite in picky eaters
Cons and Cautions
Nutritional imbalances without veterinary formulation
Higher risk of bacterial contamination
Inconsistent results in dogs with sensitive digestion
When your clients insist on a raw diet, refer them to commercially formulated, AAFCO-formulated (Association of American Feed Control Officials) raw foods or advise a veterinary nutritionist. Never let a giant breed test diet on its own.
Controlling the Risks Leonbergers Encounter
The proper diet not only nourishes a Leonberger, but it also guards them. These three conditions are the most diet-sensitive in the breed:
1. Joint Issues (Hip/Elbow Dysplasia)
Start a joint-sensitive diet from the start (puppy stage).
Achieve and sustain an ideal weight to reduce hip and elbow pressure.
Recommend diets rich in glucosamine, MSM, and omega-3 fatty acids.
2. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat)
Prevent single large meals.
Use slow-feeding bowls or puzzle feeders, if needed.
Do not feed before and after extreme exercise.
Select kibbles with less fat content and no fermentation ingredients.
3. Obesity
Preventing caloric overfeeding, even 10 additional pounds is a joint risk factor.
Add healthy, low-calorie treats such as carrots or green beans.
As a veterinarian, you’re Leonberger’s nutritional gatekeeper. Don’t just recommend a food bag; design a plan that aligns with Leonberger’s medical history, risk profile, and lifestyle. For veterinarians specializing in canine nutrition or offering breed-specific dietary consultations, being aware of market trends and vet-industry opportunities is crucial.
Platforms such as VetRep Finder assist professionals by uniting them with changing veterinary sales representative opportunities and enabling them to remain active with the tools and products that define veterinary care nationwide.
Whether therapeutic diets or supplements, remaining current works in the best interests of both your practice and your patients.
Conclusion
In practice, prescribing a Leonberger-specific diet is more than handing out a standard feeding sheet for the average dog. These gentle giants need expert, proactive nutritional planning from puppyhood to the golden age.
As a veterinarian, you can take direct control of longevity by influencing longevity, joint health, and digestive stability, all through diet.
If you’re enthusiastic about maintaining contact with veterinary sales careers or assisting in veterinary learning resources that influence clients and colleagues alike, VetRep Finder provides important avenues for professional development.
FAQs
How frequently should a Leonberger be fed?
Adults and senior dogs should be fed twice a day. Puppies might require 3 to 4 meals a day to avoid energy crashes and digestive stress.
What is the safest protein for Leonbergers with sensitivities?
Fish and turkey are quite well-digested and provide anti-inflammatory advantages. Steer clear of beef or lamb if you suffer from a history of gastrointestinal disease or skin allergy.
Are grain-free diets a good fit for Leonbergers?
Only when there is a medical symptom present are some grain-free diets associated with DCM, so always examine the whole nutrient picture and consult with a veterinary nutritionist.
Today is Rainbow Bridge Day or Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day. We remember the dogs, or the pets that we’ve owned that passed over the rainbow bridge. I made a Rainbow Bridge post exactly one year ago today and since we have not lost any dogs since last year, I’ve decided to just reblog last year’s post. I am also adding illustrations of our lost pets.
We lost our wonderful and brave Labrador-Rhodesian-Ridgeback mix under very tragic and unexpected circumstances. His untimely and cruel death has left us with a sorrow and regret that we will never overcome. Illustration by Naomi Rosenblatt.Our German Shepherd Baby was like a mother to our Leonberger Bronco. She played with him, protected him fiercely, and care for him. She passed in 2009.Our happy, lively and energetic Japanese Chin Ryu was a great singer/howler. He left us in February 2018. Illustration by Naomi Rosenblatt.This is a portrait of our Leonberger Bronco who passed on June 16 2020. The portrait was drawn by Veniceme at Etsy (Natasha Dall’Ara) and it is based on one of our photos.Our Leonberger Bronco lived a long life for a Leonberger, almost 13 years. He was a kind, brave, and friendly dog who loved and protected our other dogs. This blog and the book I write was started as a tribute to Bronco. Illustration by Naomi Rosenblatt.A painting of our late pug Daisy who passed away last April. It is based on one of our photos and created by Etsy. I believe by the same woman who made Bronco’s portrait (see above).
The Rainbow Bridge
According to an article in the Washington Post, the Rainbow Bridge is “a mythical overpass said to connect heaven and earth—and, more to the point, a spot where grieving pet owners reunite for good with their departed furry friends.” According to the article, it’s also a poem of unknown origin that spawned a pet-bereavement movement and even a worldwide Pet Remembrance Day, August 28. However, the part about unknown origin may not be entirely correct. Here is an article that tells us about the origin of the poem . The poem in its entirety follows.
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge. When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water, and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing: they each miss someone very special to them who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Cartoon dog pets with happy muzzles. Shutterstock Asset id: 2497974643 by Foxy Fox.
Today is National Dog Day. According to this website “Every year on August 26, National Dog Day celebrates the bond between humans and dogs while spotlighting the many dogs still in need of a loving home.”. It was Jacqui Murray who alerted me to the existence of National Dog Day. As a family we’ve owned six dogs including two rescues. They were:
Baylor our funny and brave Labrador Rhodesian Ridgeback mix.
Baby our nurturing and motherly German Shepherd.
Bronco our funny and loving Leonberger. He is the focus of this blog.
Ryu our Japanese Chin and energetic little opera singer (howling).
Daisy our calm and easy pug.
Rollo our rambunctious but loving mini-Australian Shepherd.
I should say we’ve been around many other dogs and owned other dogs further back in time. To celebrate National Dog Day, I decided to show photos of our dogs as well as dogs owned by friends and a few stock photos of dogs. A lot of the dog photos are of Leonbergers since this is a Leonberger blog. However, I would like to point out that we are celebrating all dogs, pure bred, as well as mixed breeds.
Cartoon illustration of 20 dog breeds including the Leonberger. Shutterstock Asset id: 2658034883 by A7880S
Below are some of my previous Leonberger photo posts:
Ten Leonberger puppies with mama. Shutterstock-ID: 561107650 by Akbudak Rimma.Six Leonbergers celebrating a birthday celebration. Photo by Jen O’Keefe.This is a photo of our Leonberger Bronco when he was three months old.This is a black and white photo of our Leonberger Bronco when he was three months old.Our Leonberger dog Bronco as an adult. He is coming up to me. He wants my attention.Baylor our Labrador Rhodesian Ridgeback mix on the left and our German Shepherd Baby on the right. They were both old in this photo.Baylor is younger in this photo. The photo is from around 2005 or 2006. Baylor had a smile that would warm the coldest hearts.Baylor loved to swim in Claudia’s parents’ pool. Claudia is my wife.Our German Shepherd Baby was always a little wary at the dog park.Our German Shepherd Baby is reluctantly playing with another dog at White Rock Lake dog park near Dallas, Texas.Our Japanese Chin Ryu with our daughter who was 9 years old at the time.Our Japanese Chin Ryu.Our Japanese Chin Ryu and our Pug Daisy are protesting our travel by sitting in our suitcase. They want to come with us.Our pug Daisy loved to sunbath even when it was hot. Here she is catching some rays while lying on our old backyard porch, which had gravel.Digory and Obi are two Leonbergers. Digory was a very brave Leonberger who fought cancer. He was featured in the Leo-Letter a Leonberger Magazine Photo by Jen O’Keefe. Jen is a friend in the Leonberger community.Digory with Leonbergers friends on the beach. Photo by Jen O’Keefe.Hachi is a Canadian Leonberger. Here he is featured with my book. The owner and photographers are Brenda Saito and her husband.A Canadian Leonberger called Mak with my book. Photo by Debbie Ireland.Our Leonberger Bronco and our Pug DaisyWho is peeking out behind the sofa? The answer is Rollo our mini-Australian Shepherd.Our Leonberger Bronco and our mini-Australian Shepherd Rollo.Rollo loves rolling and chasing balls.Rollo is anxious and easily frightened. Daisy’s stroller is a good thing to sit in for such occasions.Our Leonberger Bronco is in the front yard.Our daughter with our pug Daisy and our mini-Australian Shepherd Rollo.This is a photo I took. It was Daisy’s 15th birthday. I can add that this photo was stolen by the administrators of several Pug groups on Facebook and posted as if it was their own photo. Sometimes her name was Daisy but sometimes they made up new names for her including male names. They also used the approval feature to prevent you from complaining. This was very common. I was unable to find an honest Pug group on Facebook. Posting dog photos on a blog is much more rewarding.A painting of our late pug Daisy who passed away last April. It is based on one of our photos and created by Etsy. I believe by the same woman who made Bronco’s portrait (see below).The portrait was drawn by Veniceme at Etsy (Natasha Dall’Ara) and it is based on one of our photos.
Dog Books to Check Out
I wrote a book about our amazing and funny Leonberger . The book also features tips for care and training of Leonbergers and other large dogs, as well as a resource guide. The title of the book is The Life and Times of Le Bronco von der Löwenhöhle: Stories and Tips from Thirteen Years with a Leonberger. You can buy the paperback version here or the Kindle version here. You can buy it on Canadian Amazon here. To find out more about the book and where else to buy it click here.
This evening around 7:45PM my daughter came to me and said that my wife, Claudia, and her, wanted to take Rollo for a walk. I said that I had told Claudia that I would go with her and Rollo for a walk at 8:00PM, and that I was in the middle of something right now. We had an argument, which ended with my daughter and my wife taking Rollo for a walk at around 7:50PM, and I stayed home to finish what I was doing. The reason we are walking him late in the evening is because here in north Texas it is pretty hot, so you need to wait until twilight.
They left, but at 8:00PM I decided to join them, so I went after them. However, I could not find them. When I reached an intersection, I called my wife on her phone to find out which way they went. She did not answer because she had left her phone at home. The same was true for my daughter. But then I thought I heard Rollo barking, so I went that way. It turned out it was another dog. I turned around and started walking home. I had about a mile back home.
Soon after I had rounded a corner in an intersection, I heard a bark. I turned around and there was Rollo running towards me with my daughter running behind him holding the leash. She explained that Rollo had picked up a scent about half a mile back and had started running. She thought he had smelled another dog and along the way they passed a dog. However, he just ran passed the dog without acknowledging the dog. He was obviously after something else. She was wondering what he was running after, and she found the answer as they rounded the corner and saw me.
He had smelled my scent and had started running to find me from half a mile away. It wasn’t like I stank to high heaven. I took a shower today. How could he smell me, just from walking around the neighborhood? The sense of smell of dogs is amazing. Clearly Rollo’s sense of smell was better than my hearing. According to this article (and this) a dog’s sense of smell is 10,000 to 100,000 times more acute than that of a human. You can read more about Rollo here and here and here. Below are a few photos of Rollo.
Close up of Rollo as a puppy.Rollo playing with a volleyball.Rollo frequently bit our Leonberger Bronco’s tail, and he even swung in it like a swing. He climbed all over Bronco. Bronco was very patient with him.
The Day Our Leonberger Bronco Sniffed out an Insulin Shock
According to the article that I mentioned above “Dogs’ powerful noses are being used in medicine to detect diseases, sniffing them out in a less invasive manner than the currently available diagnostic tests”. For example, dogs have been able to accurately detect cancer, predict seizures and identify people with low blood sugar just by using their noses. This is exactly what I am going to describe below.
We used to have a Labrador called Baylor who had diabetes. Well, more exactly he was ¾ Labrador and ¼ Rhodesian Ridgeback. I used to give him insulin shots after every meal. We also had a Leonberger called Bronco. This was a large dog. Leonberger are related to Saint Bernards and about the same size.
One day as we had just gone to bed our Leonberger Bronco started barking while looking intently at Baylor, then he looked at us, then he turned his head toward Baylor and started barking again. He did this a few times—not aggressively, but to get our attention. It became clear to us that Bronco wanted us to look at Baylor. I examined Baylor but saw nothing wrong at first. Then I looked again. This time I saw that his back legs were shaking slightly. It quickly got worse. His gait became wobbly, then within perhaps fifteen seconds he fainted. He had gone into insulin shock. “Insulin shock” is another name for severe hypoglycemia, a condition where blood sugar (glucose) is dangerously low. Exactly, what dogs can smell out according to the article above. We rushed him to the emergency clinic, where fortunately the doctors were able to revive him.
Bronco detected a problem with Baylor before we could see anything wrong. His warnings gave us that little bit of extra time we needed to save Baylor’s life. Imagine if we had gone to bed, fallen asleep and not noticed the problem. I can add that Leonbergers have a very keen sense of smell. We had never taught Bronco to detect insulin shock or any other condition. It was entirely his own instinct. This was one of the amazing superpowers Bronco had. I should say that we didn’t know this at the time, but giving a dog sugar, or something sweet, can bring him out of insulin shock. To read more about this incident click here or here. Below are some photos of Bronco and Baylor.
Baylor is young in this photo. The photo is from around 2005 or 2006. Baylor had a smile that would warm the coldest hearts.Me and our Leonberger Bronco when he was young.Our Leonberger Bronco is ready for dinner
Leonberger Life 