shoulder blades with a matching return of upper arm provide the framework needed for powerful muscles. Th e 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. .BUVSF NBMFT DBSSZ B NBOF UIBU FYUFOET over the neck and chest. Th is mane, cou- pled with great size, makes their silhouette immediately discernible from the bitches. Th e females typically have a shorter coat and lack the length of main males get. Th is 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 CJUDIJTFWFSZCJUBTEFTFSWJOHPGB#FTUPG #SFFEBTBSPCVTUEPH 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. Th e bone struc- ture, coloration, and expression are unique to the Leonberger. Th e 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. Th e face is covered with a striking black mask that extends above the eyes; the Leonberger’s good-natured expression is soft, intelligent, and con fi dent. Likewise, the nose and lips are black and blend with the mask. With close fi tting 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. Th e ears are an integral part of the head’s proper silhouette; they are fl eshy, moderately sized, pendant, and hang close to the skull. Th e 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. Th e fl ews are tight and close fi tting and there 220 • S HOW S IGHT M AGAZINE , F EBRUARY 2014
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