Leonbergers, a competitive Obedience breed?!
Did you know the sport of obedience in America, was founded by a woman who wanted to prove the intelligence of her Standard Poodles? Did you know that the first obedience trial in America was held in in 1933 and was based on series of exercises patterned after those held in England under the sponsorship of Associated Sheep, Police Army Dog Society?
Since 1933, the competitive sport of obedience has come a long way attracting thousands of competitors and all types of dogs, including your "I'd-really-rather-be-relaxing-or-swimming-than-walking-around-in-some-silly-pattern" Leonberger!
What is competitive obedience?
In short, obedience events test the training of dogs as they perform a series of prescribed exercises at the command of their handler. There are several levels of competition, ranging from basic commands such as "sit," "come" and "heel," to scent discrimination and directed retrieves over jumps, that are based on the dog's level of accomplishment, and the classes are further delineated by the experience of the handler as well.
Leonbergers and Competitive Obedience? .You Bet!
O.K. so a Leonberger does not possess the drive of a Golden Retriever, or the endless energy for repetitive drills like a Border Collie but what the Leonberger does have is the willingness to please their owner (no matter how silly the request!).
What does it take to get started and be competitive with your Leonberger in obedience?
It takes dedication, time and patience. It requires a desire on your part to have a closer relationship with your Leonberger and a willingness to put in the effort to work with your dog. Anyone can be successful in any effort if they enjoy what they are doing! Once you have established your willingness to commit to the time and effort it takes to become competitive in the sport of obedience, you need one more crucial thing...you need a FUN attitude! Most people would agree that when it comes to activities in life, if you are not having fun, then why do it? Guess what? Your Leonberger feels the exact same way! The most successful competitors in any dog sport know that in order to really be successful, you must make it fun for you and your dog. Given that your Leo can often be found laying on the floor near or on the air conditioning vent, they really need to be motivated to become competitive in obedience.
Given that Leonbergers do work to please their owners, it only takes a little treat or toy with lots of verbal praise to get them going! It also helps to be realistic. Your Leo will not enjoy practicing the same exercise 5 or 6 times, so don't push them. Better to get 2 or 3 really fun, energetic drills in and end on a good note than to practice to the point of nausea. As they say in show business.leave them wanting more!
In the following pages you will find information on LCA specific information on obedience, LCA obedience-titled Leonbergers, as well as links to great obedience web pages! Our LCA regional affiliate club shows can be great places to get your feet wet in competing with your Leonberger, as well as your local dog clubs and fun matches. So get out there and get started!
LCA Rules and Regulations (pdf)
