Who am I . . .
I am a Leonberger fancier--not necessarily someone who is passionate
about breeding but someone who cares deeply about these dogs. The
Leonberger is at a crossroads with 2 clubs formed, one seeking AKC
recognition and the other seeking to remain a rare breed. This
website is not about taking sides for or against AKC recognition; there
are pros and cons to both goals but my main concern is health.
Before buying my first Leonberger, I worked with Akitas for 24 years,
doing rescue work and writing three books on the breed. The Akita
is now on the right road with a club that supports all rescue
activities, and a Health Committee that has worked very hard to
understand and improve the health of Akitas. I wish the Leonberger
breed the same maturity and honesty that the Akita breed has attained, and
for that reason, I decided to begin this website. It is never easy
for a group of people to look within themselves and admit they have problems but
all breeds have health problems. The only way to solve them is
first, by admission, then by research and finally, by ethical breeding practices.
That comes with maturity.
You can help. If you are looking to buy a Leo puppy, ask the
questions outlined in
Finding a Reputable Breeder, demand whatever genetic tests are
available and be willing to walk away from any breeder who will not
offer you some guarantee (in writing, called a contract). Join a
Leonberger Club--either one of the National Clubs or a Regional Club,
and get involved in protecting these dogs whose quality of life depends
on our decisions. Participate in health screenings, health
surveys, and most of all, understand the value and great importance of
biopsies and autopsies when you are faced with an illness.
Barbara Bouyet
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