Page 19 - ShowSight Presents - The Leonberger

shoulder blades with a matching return of upper arm provide the framework needed for powerful muscles. The well- sprung ribs, broad, compact loin and sloping croup, all come together to create great power in the balanced Leonberger. Its important that nothing is overdone to accomplish this power. Everything is in moderation and in balance!
Lion-like coat and black mask.
Mature males carry a mane that extends over the neck and chest. This mane, cou- pled with great size, makes their silhouette immediately discernible from the bitches. The females typically have a shorter coat and lack the length of main males get. This does not make the dogs typeier than bitch- es. Leonbergers are a dimorphic breed; males and females are easily recognizable. With everything else equal, an elegant bitch is every bit as deserving of a Best of Breed as a robust dog.
The Leonberger Head
Correct head and expression, in harmo- ny with overall size and coat, are hallmarks of the Leonberger. As with the silhouette, the head should always be appropriately masculine or feminine; you should have no doubt about the sex of the Leonberger from looking at the head. The bone struc- ture, coloration, and expression are unique to the Leonberger.
The ideal head is well balanced in pro- portion to the size of the dog and is deeper than broad with the length of muzzle and the length of skull approximately equal. The face is covered with a striking black mask that extends above the eyes; the Leonberger’s good-natured expression is soft, intelligent, and confident. Likewise, the nose and lips are black and blend with the mask. With close fitting eyelids, the eyes are moderately set into the skull upon a slight oblique; the eyes are medium sized, almond shaped, and colored a rich, dark brown.
The ears are an integral part of the head’s proper silhouette; they are fleshy, moderately sized, pendant, and hang close to the skull. The tip of the ears are level with the inside corners of the mouth. When alert, the ears are level with the top of the skull and set slightly forward. The flews are tight and close fitting and there 220 • ShowSight Magazine, February 2014