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.
Our late Leonberger Bronco’s birthday is today July 3rd and therefore I am holding a promotion. The price of the Kindle version of my book “The Life and Times of Le Bronco von der Löwenhöhle” is now only $2.99 and the price of the paperback version is 17.95 (normal prize is $19.95). I will keep that price until July 15th. The prices in all other countries, Canada, the UK, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Australia, etc., are lowered by the same amount. Below is some information about my book.
This is the front cover of the book “The Life and Times of Le Bronco von der Löwenhöhle”. Click here<<Link-2>> or on the image to go to the United States Amazon location for the paperback version of the book.
Advance Praise for the book
A wonderful tribute to the author’s beloved Bronco. The stories are heartwarming as well as informative—a true glimpse into life with a Leonberger. The adorable illustrations are icing on the cake.” —D’Nae Wilson, President, Leonberger Health Foundation International
“A lovely tribute to Bronco, with lots of resources for general Leonberger information.” —Julie Schaffert, Leonberger Club of America breeder since 1992
Amazon’s description of : The Life and Times of Le Bronco von der Löwenhöhle: Stories and Tips from Thirteen Years with a Leonberger by Thomas Wikman
If you’re thinking of getting a Leonberger, or if you’ve already owned one and know how rewarding the experience can be, you’ll want to read the story of Le Bronco von der Löwenhöhle, called Bronco, who came into the lives of the Wikman family of Dallas, Texas, in 2007. Bronco, a recipient of the Leonberger Health Foundation International’s Grey Muzzle Award, lived an unusually long life for a Leonberger—almost thirteen years. His human family is convinced that what helped him exceed his breed’s normal life expectancy was his brave and loving heart.
Here you’ll read about some of Bronco’s amazing feats: the night he scared away a prowler; the day he performed a hamster search and rescue; the time he stumped the Geek Squad; and the late night he snuck into the kitchen and ate a two-pound bag of dog treats, a box of pastries, a loaf of bread, a grilled chicken, and a Key lime pie, all in one sitting. You’ll also read about his unflappable calm during a north Texas tornado and his stoicism as he endured health challenges in his later years.
In addition to entertaining stories, these pages contain a wealth of practical guidance, including
a history of the Leonberger breed;
advice for the care of very large dogs;
breed-specific health and genetic information;
training and feeding tips;
suggestions for finding a breeder;
the official breed standard; and
an extensive resource guide.
Bronco’s fearlessness, tolerance, and affectionate nature warmed the hearts of everyone who met him, and his sometimes uncanny adventures with his human and canine companions will bring a smile to the face of every dog lover.
The author is donating the proceeds from the sale of this book to the Leonberger Health Foundation International
This is the back cover of the book “The Life and Times of Le Bronco von der Löwenhöhle”. Click here or on the image to go to the Amazon.com location for the kindle version of the book.Again, these are the endorsements for the book by some very prominent members of the Leonberger community. Click here or on the image to go to the Barnes and Noble location for the book.
Getting My Book in Other Places
You can also get my book in many other places including Amazon in every country where Amazon exists, for example Canada, and other bookstores such as Chapters Indigo, Apple, etc. To see a list of the options visit my Book Page by clicking here.
A professional content writer by the name of Ryan Goodchild contacted me about me posting an article he had written on how to manage stress for dog owners. The title of the article is “How to Manage Stress Naturally with Simple Daily Habits” and you can see the article below. Ryan wrote the article and I provided pictures.
Dogs can calm your nerves as well as cause some stress. Our mini Australian Shepherd Rollo chewing up my shoe. Our Leonberger dog Bronco clears tables with his cone. Our mini Australian Shepherd harassing our Leonberger dog and biting his tail. Our Leonberger and our Pug raiding the kitchen and eating the gingerbread house. Our Japanese Chin Ryu and Pug Daisy staging a protest against us travelling. Our Leonberger dog is trying to sit in my wife’s lap.
How to Manage Stress Naturally with Simple Daily Habits
Busy dog owners who are already juggling work, family schedules, and a million small decisions often find themselves struggling with stress management and hoping things will just calm down a bit. The hard part is that stress rarely comes from one big event; it builds from sources of stress like constant notifications, unresolved conflicts, money worries, or even a packed calendar that never resets. Without recognizing stress triggers, it’s easy to treat the noise instead of the cause, and the stress impact on wellbeing can show up as irritability, poor sleep, or feeling stuck in overdrive. Spotting what actually sets stress off turns a vague problem into something that can be handled.
A Leonberger dog with a powerful bite crushing a laptop could be one of many sources of stress. Illustration by Naomi Rosenblatt.
Try Gentle Stress-Relief Modalities
When you can name what’s contributing to your stress levels, it’s easier to choose the right tool for the moment.
Breathwork: slow, steady breathing practices that help your body downshift.
Mindfulness: simple attention training to reduce mental spirals.
Rhodiola rosea supplements: may help support energy levels, mental focus, and resilience to everyday stress and fatigue.
Essential oils: calming scents used through diffusion or a personal inhaler (skip skin use unless properly diluted).
THCa: a hemp-derived option some people explore; if you’re curious, you can read more about a THCa cartridge.
Putting bandages on the legs of our injured Leonberger dog Bronco. This is a stressful situation, but our mini-Australian Shepherd Rollo is calmly observing and learning.
Understanding Your Stress Response
Stress is your body’s built-in alert system, not a personal failure. The Cleveland Clinic calls it a natural reaction to changes or challenges, and it can show up in your thoughts, feelings, and actions. When you learn your early signals, you can separate “I’m stressed” from “something is wrong with me.”
This matters because stress patterns are often predictable. Spotting your common causes of stress and your most frequent symptoms helps you choose the right support faster and recover sooner. It also keeps you from treating every bad day like a character flaw.
Picture a typical morning: a late start, nonstop notifications, and a tense conversation. Your shoulders climb, your patience drops, and you reach for caffeine or scrolling. That’s your cue to connect the trigger and the response, then adjust. The same pattern recognition can help you notice stress signals in your pets, too.
Dogs get stressed out too. Our mini-Australian Shepherd get stressed out by strange sounds and when we had a stroller with us, he wanted to sit in the stroller when he heard strange sounds. Unfortunately, this is probably not an option for you.
Calm Together: Reduce Stress for You and Your Dog
Once you start noticing how stress shows up in your body and habits, it’s easier to see how it can ripple out to the beings around you, especially your dog. Dogs are keen observers, and a shift in your schedule, voice, or body language can register as “something’s off.” Calm, family-oriented breeds like Leonbergers often mirror the mood of the home, so when you’re rushed, inconsistent, or tense, they may become more clingy, withdrawn, restless, or reactive.
The good news is that the same steady routines that help you feel grounded can help your dog feel safe. Regular walks burn off nervous energy for both of you, and consistent feeding and sleep times make the day more predictable. Add a little quiet bonding time, sitting together, gentle attention, an unhurried presence, and create a calm space where your dog can settle when the house feels busy.
Calm, family-oriented breeds like Leonbergers often mirror the mood of the home. Shutter Stock Asset id: 1741753382 by Elena Podrezenko
Daily Stress-Soothing Habits You Can Repeat
These habits work because they are simple enough to repeat on busy days, which helps your nervous system learn what “safe and settled” feels like over time. Pick one or two, practice them consistently, and let the routine support both you and your home.
Why it helps: Slow breathing lowers body tension and helps your mind re-center.
Light-and-Move Morning Start
What it is: Get daylight, drink water, and take a 10-minute easy walk.
How often: Most mornings.
Why it helps: Movement and light support energy, mood, and calmer focus.
Workday Boundary Check
What it is: Choose a clear stop time and do a 3-minute tidy reset.
How often: Weekdays.
Why it helps: A clean ending reduces rumination and protects your evening.
Stress-Smart Plate
What it is: Build meals with protein, fiber, and a color, then snack intentionally.
How often: Daily.
Why it helps: Stable blood sugar can reduce jitters and irritability.
Screen-Free Wind-Down
What it is: Put your phone away and do a short stretch or shower.
How often: Nightly, last 30 minutes.
Why it helps: Less stimulation helps your body shift toward sleep.
When you are relaxed your dog can relax. This is our Leonberger dog Bronco splayed out on the leather sofa.
Stress-Relief Questions People Ask Most
Q: How do I choose a relaxation technique that actually works for me? A: Pick the one you will realistically repeat, not the “perfect” method. Start with something low-friction like slow breathing, a short walk, or gentle stretching, then notice what changes first: sleep, irritability, or focus. If you hate a technique, it is okay to swap it.
Q: Why do I feel worse when I try to relax? A: This is more common than people realize, especially if you have been running on adrenaline for a long time. Try a lighter version: shorter sessions, eyes open, or movement-based calming like walking. If panic spikes, pause and choose grounding actions like naming five things you see.
Q: When I miss a day, should I start over? A: No, you are practicing a skill, not passing a test. Restart with the smallest version of your habit and anchor it to something you already do, like after brushing your teeth. Consistency over time matters more than streaks.
Q: When is professional support the safest next step? A: Reach out if stress is affecting sleep for weeks, causing frequent panic, or leading you to rely on alcohol, drugs, or self-harm thoughts. A clinician can help you build a plan that protects both your body and mind. If you ever feel unsafe, seek urgent help right away.
This was a stressful situation. Our Leonberger dog Bronco, wearing a cast chased our neighbor and his Corgis down the street. He was limping badly but wanted a walk so we took him outside just for a little bit. We did not think he needed a leash in his condition, but it turned out he could run. He was not supposed to bump his cast and not chase neighbors either. Illustrations by Naomi Rosenblatt.
Small Habits, Lasting Calm
Managing stress naturally does not require a complete lifestyle overhaul. By learning to recognize your stress triggers, understanding how your body responds, and building a few simple, repeatable habits into your day, you can create more resilience and balance over time. Whether you find relief through breathwork, mindful routines, supportive supplements, or simply creating calmer rhythms for yourself and your family, consistency matters more than perfection. Small daily actions can add up to meaningful changes, helping you navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity, energy, and peace of mind.
A professional content writer by the name of Ryan Goodchild contacted me about me posting an article he had written on launching a pet boarding and pet daycare business. The title of the article is “A Step-by-Step Guide to Launching Your Pet Boarding and Daycare Business” and you can see the article below. Ryan wrote the article and I provided pictures.
Photos from Pexels.com by Nataliya Vaitkevich, Aishu gowda, Austin Briones, and Blue Bird. At the top left, me with our Leonberger dog Bronco.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Launching Your Pet Boarding and Daycare Business
For local business owners and new pet service entrepreneurs, a pet boarding business opportunity can feel obvious, until the local pet daycare market reveals crowded options in one area and unmet needs in another. The core challenge is separating real community pet care demand from friendly encouragement, so a small business startup in the pet industry doesn’t open to empty spots or unhappy neighbors. The upside is meaningful: reliable support for working families, safer care for pets, and a business built on trust and consistency. Clear demand and clear standards are what turn pet care into a lasting local service.
Ten Leonberger puppies, about two months old. Shutterstock-ID:561107710 by Akbudak Rimma.
Build Your Pet Boarding Business From Plan to Opening
This roadmap helps you turn a pet boarding and daycare idea into a real opening day plan, with fewer legal, safety, and customer service surprises. It matters because most “small” gaps, like paperwork, intake rules, or staffing, are exactly what shape trust in your community.
Confirm demand and define your offer Start with a simple business plan that names who you serve, what problems you solve, and how many pets you can safely handle per day. Talk to local vets, groomers, and pet parents to learn which hours, services, and price points are actually missing. Use what you hear to choose a clear niche, like small-dog daycare, senior pet boarding, or extended-hour drop-offs.
Choose your structure and line up licensing Pick a legal setup, register your business, and get an EIN so you can open accounts and hire staff cleanly. A checklist like choosing a business structure can help you decide how to organize liability, taxes, and ownership from day one. Then contact your city or county to confirm permits, zoning, signage rules, and any kennel or animal care licensing requirements.
Set up a safe, workable facility Choose a location and layout that supports calm movement, easy cleaning, and separation when needed, such as by size, temperament, or health status. Before you commit, visit the facility you plan to use so you can notice noise, odor control, drainage, entry security, and how pets would flow through the space. Build your setup around safety basics like double-door entry, secure fencing, sanitation stations, and clear emergency exits.
Train your team and lock in operating standards Write simple, repeatable rules for supervision, playgroup grouping, feeding, medication, cleaning schedules, and incident reporting. Train staff on body language basics, de-escalation, and how to follow checklists, not memory, during busy rushes. Consistent standards reduce accidents and make your service feel dependable even as you grow.
Create intake procedures and launch marketing Set an intake process that protects pets and sets expectations, including vaccination proof, temperament notes, emergency contacts, and a trial day for new clients. Then market what you can deliver consistently: capacity, hours, safety practices, and your booking process, not just cute photos. Ask early customers for reviews, and build referral partnerships with nearby pet professionals so your first month is not a guessing game.
Five Leonbergers including Digory on 4th of July 2023. Photo by my friend Jen O’Keefe.
Build the Business Skills That Keep Pet Care Profitable
Boosting your business acumen can be as practical as earning an online business degree, giving you structured training to support smarter choices as you grow. Earning a business management degree can help build skills in leadership, operations, and project management, the same capabilities you’ll lean on when you’re coordinating people, processes, and services. An online format can make it easier to learn on a flexible schedule while still applying what you study to your business in real time; for additional info, explore the program details.
Our mini-Australian Shepherd puppy Rollo playing with an orange ball.
Pet Boarding and Daycare Startup Questions
Q: What licenses or rules do I need before I take my first booking? A: Start with your city or county business license, zoning approval, and any kennel or animal care permits your state requires. Ask specifically about occupancy limits, noise rules, waste disposal, and vaccination requirements. Create a simple compliance binder with permits, inspection notes, and written policies so you can prove you are operating responsibly.
Q: How much insurance do I really need, and what should it cover? A: Look for liability coverage that includes animal bailee or care, custody, and control, plus protection for bites, escapes, and property damage. Many sitters benchmark options by noting 78% of members in a major industry survey used one insurer, but the right choice depends on your services and facility. Get quotes from at least three providers and confirm exclusions in writing.
Q: How do I set prices without scaring off new clients? A: Price around your true costs first: staffing, cleaning, rent, insurance, and supplies, then add a profit margin. A practical reference point is the pricing range $25-$65/day for day boarding, adjusted for your local demand and service level. Offer clear add-ons like medication, late pickup, or enrichment instead of discounting your base care.
Q: Should I hire staff right away, or start solo? A: Many owners start lean, then hire when supervision and cleaning tasks begin to compete with customer service and sales. If you do hire, prioritize reliability and calm handling skills over pet ownership alone. Use paid working interviews and require proof of any claimed certifications.
Q: How can I prevent fights, illness, or mix-ups between pets? A: Use temperament screenings, separate play groups by size and energy, and set firm criteria for when a pet must be kenneled or isolated. Require vaccination records, a signed emergency authorization, and clear ID on every collar and kennel. Daily cleaning checklists and incident logs help you spot patterns before they become big problems.
From pexels.com cottonbro studio
Open-Ready Startup Checklist
This checklist keeps your launch organized so you can open confidently and care for pets safely. Use it to spot gaps early, avoid last minute scrambles, and create a smooth first impression.
✔ Confirm business license, zoning clearance, and required animal care permits
✔ File insurance policies and document coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions
✔ Set pricing sheet with add-ons, cancellation terms, and pickup windows
✔ Prepare intake packet with vaccine proof, emergency contacts, and behavior notes
✔ Stock supplies list for cleaning, enrichment, feeding, and first-aid essentials
✔ Create daily routines for sanitation, headcounts, and incident reporting
✔ Verify staff identities, references, and hands-on handling competence
✔ Launch local outreach with a simple website, reviews plan, and referral perk
Seven Leonbergers at the beach. Photo by my friend Jen O’Keefe.
Turn Your Pet Care Plan Into a Trusted Local Business
Starting a pet boarding and daycare business can feel overwhelming because pets’ safety, regulations, and expectations all land on day one. The path forward is a community-first mindset, use your open-ready checklist, stay consistent, and build trust through clear standards and a customer satisfaction focus. When those pieces are in place, entrepreneurial motivation turns into confidence building for new owners, steady referrals, and long-term growth strategies that make the operation resilient. A calm, prepared launch is the fastest way to earn trust and keep it.
I grew up not having any pets even though I really wanted a dog. However, both my parents were working, and my brother and I walked to and from school every day. We stayed by ourselves until our parents came back home. That is not a good situation for a dog or for many other kinds of pets. This all changed after I met my wife. She was used to having dogs and other pets. While we were still students we had an aquarium, hamsters, a rabbit, and a cat. Unfortunately, I was extremely allergic to the cat and I got very sick. Luckily, we found someone who could take care of the cat.
After we got married and had kids we had a couple of aquariums, a pet snake, a frilled lizard, hamsters, and eventually dogs. On one occasion we went fishing in a lake here in Texas. We used minnows for bait. My daughter wanted to take the leftover minnows home and put them in an aquarium. She named all of them Sally. Sally #1, Sally #2, Sally #3, Sally #4, Sally #5, Sally #6, etc. She was very young at the time and did not take care of her Sallys’ very well. She wanted them to have cranberry juice, so she poured cranberry juice in the aquarium. She wanted them to have a beautiful red aquarium, so she poured red paint in it. Well eventually the minnows died.
Sally #1 and Sally #2 Asset id: 1182854671 by Rostislav Stefanek
Our first dogs as a family were our Labrador Baylor and our German Shepherd Baby. To be precise, Baylor was a mix, one quarter Rhodesian Ridgeback and three quarters yellow Labrador. They were both rescues that were adopted by our niece (Baylor) and Claudia’s sister (Baby). They were both wonderful dogs. Baylor loved swimming and he was brave and very playful.
Our Labrador Baylor and German Shepherd Baby. They were both rescues.
Next, we got a Leonberger dog by the name Le Bronco von der Löwenhöhle, or Le Bronco, or just Bronco for short. He was a big friendly goofball who saved our Pug Daisy’s life, probably saved Baylor’s life my smelling out an oncoming insulin shock, found and saved run away hamsters, and saved the entire neighborhood by chasing off a trespasser / intruder / peeping Tom. I wrote a book about him “The Life and Times of Le Bronco von der Löwenhöhle”.
Our Leonberger Dog Bronco at 3 months oldMe with our Leonberger Bronco. He was not yet fully grown.Our large but cuddly 167lb Leonberger Bronco is sitting in my wife Claudia’s lap.
Next, we got a Japanese Chin named Ryu and the Pug Daisy. Two little energetic and funny dogs. Ryu loved howling and he sounded like an opera singer. He loved the applause he got. Daisy was a funny girl, and she loved being around Ryu. They did not like it when we travelled and on one occasion they staged a protest. They defiantly sat down in one of the suitcases and refused to move.
Our Japanese Chin Ryu and our Pug Daisy are protesting our travel by sitting in our suitcase. They want to come with us.
Finally, we got our little rascal, the mini-Australian Shepherd Rollo. He is an intelligent, curious, energetic, anxious and spoiled dog that is a chore. He probably understands several hundred words. When we still had Bronco, they were best buddies. He was pestering Bronco, biting his tail and even swinging in it. Luckily, Bronco was patient. When we leave for a little bit, he sits in the window and looks out into the street. When we say “Rollo, go look out the window” he runs to the window. He knows we are leaving. He is our most misbehaved dog, but he is full of life and full of joy.
Our Leonberger Bronco with our new puppy Rollo, a mini-Australian Shepherd.Rollo, our mini-Australian Shepherd could be a pest. He loved biting Bronco’s tail and even swung in it as if it was a swing.Our Pug Daisy and our mini-Australian Shepherd barking at people passing by our house. Notice the joke.
The Joy of Having a Pet
Pets give you unconditional love, company, adventure, memorable moments, hilarious moments, protection, and lots of joy. Playing with them or taking a dog for a walk is good for your health, as this article from the Mayo clinic states.
Today’s prompt for Stream of Consciousness Saturday May 16 is “sweet”. Use it way you’d like. The first rule is: there should be minimal planning and no editing except typos.
The first thing that came to my mind was how sweet my dogs have been and how many sweet dog photos I have taken of Leonbergers and of our other dogs throughout the years. I’ve also downloaded many shutterstock photos of Leonbergers. I intend to pick just a few of those. So, my stream of consciousness is to randomly pick sweet dog photos from the thousands of photos that I have. I will select 25 photos, but I don’t know yet which photos that will be. Let’s see!
25 Sweet Leonberger and Dog Photos my Quick Picks
Our Leonberger Bronco at three months old.Our Labrador Baylor and our German Shepherd Baby. Photo taken at the same time as the photo above. However, we couldn’t get Bronco sit still between Baylor and Baby.Our Japanese Shin Ryu when he was young.Our son David with our pug Daisy when she was a puppy.Our German Shepherd Baby playing with our 4 months old Leonberger Bronco.Bronco our Leonberger is giving me a hug. He is about one year old and not yet fully grown.Two Leonberger puppies. Shutter stock Photo ID: 2294202331 by Olga Shusters.Ten Leonberger puppies. My guess is that they are about two months old. Shutterstock-ID:561107710 by Akbudak Rimma.Leonberger puppy. My guess is that he is around two months old. Shutterstock-ID: 629624396 by TOM KAROLA.Two light colored Leonberger puppies playing. My guess is that they are three months old. Shutterstock-ID: 2141564415 by AnetaZabranska.Six Leonbergers and a birthday celebration. Photo by friend Jen O’Keefe.Seven Leonbergers by the beach. Photo by my friend Jen O’Keefe.Five Leonbergers including Digory on 4th of July 2023. Photo by my friend Jen O’Keefe.Our Japanese Shin Ryu sleeping next to our pug Daisy.Our Japanese Shin Ryu licking our pug Daisy’s ear.The day we picked up our mini-Australian Shepherd Rollo. He was nine weeks old. The other puppy is an English bulldog puppy.Our mini-Australian Shepherd puppy Rollo.Our mini-Australian Shepherd puppy Rollo.Our pug Daisy and our mini-Australian Shepherd puppy Rollo.Bronco and our mini-Australian Shepherd puppy Rollo.Bronco and our mini-Australian Shepherd puppy Rollo.Our daughter with our Pug Daisy and mini-Australian Shepherd Rollo.Bronco our Leonberger and Rollo our mini-Australian Shepherd.Our mini-Australian Shepherd puppy Rollo playing with an orange ball.Our mini-Australian Shepherd Rollo is playing with our Leonberger Bronco’s tail. Once he even dangled in it like a swing.
Finally, if you want to see other 25 sets of dog photos see below (this list I copied from another of my posts).
Me and our Leonberger Bronco, my book about him, and other dogs are featured on Smorgasbord Blog Magazine as a Guest Post. The post described how Bronco (and the other dogs) influenced my life. Dogs and other pets can mean so much to us and reshape our lives. Please take a look.
I also would like to thank Alex Diaz-Granados for his wonderful review of my book. It is featured on Smorgasbord Magazine, so you can read it there, but you can also read it here on Amazon.
A professional content writer by the name of Ryan Goodchild contacted me about me posting a Leonberger related post he had written on my Leonberger blog, which I am certainly happy to do. The title is “How to Take Stunning Photos and Videos of Your Leonberger Dog”. I should mention that I used my Samsung Galaxy phone to take less than professional photos of our Leonberger. I’ve included a few photos of our Leonberger below, but most of the photos are from friends or stock photos. However, me not having many great photos that I took myself, won’t stop you from learning how to take great photos. See the article below. While Ryan did all the writing, I added photos.
The photo tile above includes three photos of our Leonberger Bronco. One from when he was a three months old puppy and one from when he was 12 years old, and in one photo our mini-Australian Shepherd is biting his tail. There is a shutter stock photo ID:731020957 by Peter Josto, a photo of a woman and her Leonberger dog, asset id: 1741753382 by Elena Podrezenko, and two photos showing Leonberger puppies with flowers, asset id: 561113224 and 561111403 by Akbudak Rimma and . The photo of five Leonbergers wearing patriotic hats lying on grass by a lake was taken by Jen O’Keefe, (from left to right; Obi, Delfi, Aslan, Gryphon, Digory). There is also a photo of six Leonbergers celebrating a birthday. That photo was also taken by Jen O’Keefe.
How to Take Stunning Photos and Videos of Your Leonberger Dog
Leonberger dog owners who love Instagram dog photography often discover a frustrating truth: photographing large dog breeds is both deeply rewarding and deceptively hard. A Leonberger’s size, dark coat, and constant motion can turn sweet moments into blurry frames, while shedding, drool, and aging-pet sensitivities add real pet photography challenges. On top of that, Leonberger personality capture depends on comfort and timing, and anxious dogs read tension fast. With a few grounded principles and a supportive dog owner community mindset, those everyday moments can become images worth sharing.
Leonberger in a beautiful landscape. Shutterstock-ID:1333669760 by Britta Paasch.
Quick Summary: Leonberger Photo and Video Tips
Use an adjustable tripod and remote-friendly setup for steady, stress-free shots.
Use natural lighting techniques to bring out your Leonberger’s coat and expressions.
Choose a comfortable, familiar location so your dog stays relaxed and engaged.
Try flattering dog photo angles to highlight size, face, and signature fluff.
Practice patience during pet photography to capture calm, authentic moments on camera.
Leonberger swims with a ball. Stock Photo ID: 720242263 by Christian Mueller.
Polish Leonberger Clips with AI-Assisted Video Creation
Once you’ve nailed the basics, good light, a clean background, and a steady angle, you can make your Leonberger videos feel even more “finished” with a little AI help. AI-assisted editing can tighten the story in your raw footage, smooth over rough moments, and add subtle creative effects without requiring advanced skills. With an AI video generator, you can turn a simple clip into dynamic, engaging Instagram content by adding cinematic b-roll effects, smooth camera motion, and stylized visuals, all from a text prompt or existing footage. If you’re curious what that looks like in practice, explore tools designed for high-quality video generation.
Set Up and Capture Camera-Ready Leonberger Shots
These steps turn “hope for a good moment” into a simple routine you can repeat on walks, in the yard, or at home. You will set up your gear, pick flattering angles for a big fluffy dog, and use quick cues and rewards so your Leonberger looks engaged in both photos and video.
Lock in a stable, dog-safe setup Start with a phone or camera you already own, then add stability: prop it on a solid surface or use a tripod at about chest height for your dog. Turn on grid lines, wipe the lens, and pick a wide frame so you are not constantly re-aiming while handling your Leonberger. If you can, connect a Bluetooth remote or use a 3 to 10 second timer so your hands stay free for cues and treats.
Choose an angle that flatters size and fluff Drop your camera to your dog’s eye level to make your Leonberger feel present and powerful rather than “tiny in a big world.” Frame with breathing room so the pose looks natural, and follow the composition reminder to give the dog space in the direction they are looking. For extra sparkle in the eyes, turn your dog slightly toward the light and avoid shooting straight into the bright sun.
Rehearse two easy cues for “photo mode” Pick one stationary behavior like sit or down and one attention cue like “look” or name response, then practice for 30 seconds before you start shooting. Keep sessions upbeat with tiny treats or a favorite toy, and reward fast for eye contact. Research on an increase in non-verbal communication highlights how attention and interaction can build, which is exactly what you want for a focused expression on camera.
Use remote shooting to capture the best expression Stand just behind or beside the camera so your Leonberger’s gaze lands near the lens, then click the remote in short bursts while you cue and reward. For photos, take 10 to 20 frames quickly because the “perfect face” comes and goes in a blink. For video, keep clips to 5 to 15 seconds and repeat the same action (sit, look, release to sniff) so you get clean, usable takes.
Get both a still and a clip from each setup Once you have a good pose, grab one sharp portrait, then immediately record a short video of the same scene with one simple movement like a head tilt, a step forward, or a gentle tail wag. This creates a matched set you can share across platforms without reinventing the session. Finish with a jackpot reward and a quick break so your dog stays eager the next time you bring out the camera.
Leonberger in nature in Norway. Stock Photo ID: 1779931691 by Britta Paasch
Habits That Make Leonberger Shots Consistently Great
Stunning Leonberger photos and videos come from routines your dog can predict and you can repeat. These practices fit real life, so your handling, timing, and results improve week by week.
Two-Minute Location Scout
What it is: Walk your route and pre-pick two clean backgrounds and one shaded spot.
How often: Weekly or before a planned shoot.
Why it helps: You spend less time searching and more time capturing great expressions.
30-Second Calm-and-Focus Warmup
What it is: Practice sit, down, and one “look” rep, then release to sniff.
How often: Before every session.
Why it helps: Your Leonberger settles faster and offers steadier eye contact.
Light Check Habit
What it is: Note sun direction, then move to open shade or side light.
How often: Every time you arrive.
Why it helps: Flattering light keeps fur detail and reduces squinting.
Why it helps: Your best moments become share-ready instead of stuck in your camera roll.
Leonberger standing in a snowy forest. Shutterstock-ID: 705193912 by Eric Isselee.
Build Confidence by Practicing and Sharing Leonberger Moments
Big, dark-coated, fast-moving floof can make it feel like the camera never catches what makes a Leonberger so special. The steadier path is the mindset used throughout: simple, repeatable habits, scouting, small patience cues, and a light editing routine, supported by community support for dog photographers who trade tips and celebrate wins. With regular pet photo practice, confidence builds and more sessions end with sharp eyes, true color, and videos that match real-life charm. Consistency captures the Leonberger you love, even on ordinary walks. Pick one tip to try on the next walk, share one memorable dog image, and set a long-term pet photography goal worth revisiting. Those small choices preserve connection and joy, and they keep celebrating Leonberger beauty as a calm, lasting part of life.
Please take a look at Smorgasbord Blog Magazine’s feature of my super fact #19 “An account impersonating you on Facebook does not mean you have been hacked“, and my Leonberger Dog book “The Life and Times of Le Bronco von der Löwenhöhle”.
This is another post with the “25 Leonberger photos” theme. This time the theme is “25 Photos of Leonbergers with Plants Flowers and Trees”. I think plants, flowers and trees are perfect for Earth Day. I’ve selected photos of our late Leonberger Bronco that also feature plants as well as Leonberger photos by friends with greenery and stock photos showing Leonbergers with plants, flowers and trees. Below is a list of the previous posts using the theme 25 Leonberger photos.
Also, if you have not checked out my superfactful blog yet feel free to do so.
25 Photos of Leonbergers with Plants, Flowers and Trees
Our Leonberger Bronco in the bushes.Our Leonberger Bronco at a park close to our house. On his right front leg there is missing hair from a surgery he had (toe amputation).Our Leonberger Bronco on our front lawn.Amie, a female Swedish Leonberger on top of Skuleberget (Skull Mountain) in northern Sweden. We just happened to run into them after climbing the mountain.Second photo of Amie. Amie and her owner had climbed the mountain.This photo was provided by Jen O’Keefe, Urgent Animal Care of Arlington. From left to right; Obi, Delfi, Aslan, Gryphon, Digory.Leonberger standing in a snowy forest. Shutterstock-ID: 705193912 by Eric Isselee.Leonberger puppy running in a field. Shutterstock-ID: 629624396 by TOM KAROLA.A majestic Leonberger on a grassy knoll. Shutterstock-ID: 731020957 by Peter Josto.Two Leonbergers swimming. Tall grass in the background. Stock Photo ID: 1989806678 by Taibomaus.Leonberger swims with a ball. Stock Photo ID: 720242263 by Christian Mueller.Leonberger in a beautiful landscape. There are some grasses and plants. Shutterstock-ID:1333669760 by Britta Paasch.Leonberger and pug running in the snow. There is a snowy forest in the background. Shutterstock- ID:1659034960 by AnetaZabranska.Two light colored Leonberger puppies playing. There is a snowy forest in the background. My guess is that they are three months old. Shutterstock-ID: 2141564415 by AnetaZabranska.Leonberger standing in river. Brush in the background. Photo by Stephanie Lucero on Unsplash.Shutterstock Asset id: 450770140 by everydoghasastoryLeonberger puppy with flowers in his hair. Shutterstock Asset id: 1921825460 by cynoclub.Leonberger Puppy with flowers on his head – Shutterstock Asset id: 2154719621 by cynoclub.Leonberger puppy Stock Photo ID: 561111403 by Akbudak Rimma.Leonberger puppy on a white sofa Asset id: 561113224 by Akbudak Rimma.A Leonberger is sniffing a couple of tulips. Shutterstock Asset id: 1352450168 by EmmaEEVPersson.Leonberger in nature in Norway. Stock Photo ID: 1779931691 by Britta PaaschLeonberger puppy running on a green grass. There’s a fallen tree in the background. Asset id: 629624387 by TOM KAROLA.Woman and her Leonberger dog on grass. Shutterstock asset id: 1741753382 by Elena Podrezenko.Healthy Leonberger posing in front of a forest. Shutterstock asset id: 1474761425 by AnetaZabranska.
This post features various photos or illustrations of Leonbergers with flowers. The second photo below is our late Leonberger Bronco in the tall grass plants at our in-laws and the rest of the pictures are pictures featuring Leonbergers with flowers that I generated using ChatGPT or Shutterstock photos with Leonbergers and flowers (I have a shutterstock account).
Leonberger with a rose. I generated this picture with the help of ChatGPT.Our Leonberger Bronco in the bushes in front of my in-laws house.A Leonberger is sniffing a couple of tulips. Shutterstock Asset id: 1352450168 by EmmaEEVPersson.Shutterstock Asset id: 450770140 by everydoghasastory.Leonberger puppy Stock Photo ID: 561111403 by Akbudak Rimma.Leonberger puppy on a white sofa Asset id: 561113224 by Akbudak Rimma.Leonberger puppy with flowers in his hair. Shutterstock Asset id: 1921825460 by cynoclub.Leonberger Puppy with flowers on his head – Shutterstock Asset id: 2154719621 by cynoclub.Leonberger with sunflowers. I generated this picture with the help of ChatGPT.Leonberger in a field of flowers. I generated this picture with the help of ChatGPT.And a bonus photo. No Leonberger in this photo. Our Magnolia tree in our backyard just opened up its first flower for the season (lots of buds but they are still closed).
Leonberger Life 