What IS a mutt? It is a mix of two or more breeds. So it is a moving target. Today’s mixed breed is tomorrow’s new breed. A great example is the Leonberger. The Leonberger dog breed was created in the 1840s to resemble the lion of the Leonberg town crest. It is a cross between a Newfoundland and St Bernard, and a backcross to a Pyrenean Mountain Dog. So what was once a mutt is now an official AKC breed! Today’s word of the day is “heterosis.” That’s a great word that means “mutts really are more robust than pure-bred dogs.”

The Leonberger is a magnificent giant breed, known for its majestic appearance and gentle disposition. Originating from the city of Leonberg in Germany, these dogs are a blend of Newfoundland, Saint Bernard, and Great Pyrenean genetics. Standing at 25.5 to 31.5 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 90 to 170 pounds, Leonbergers are among the largest dog breeds. Despite their imposing size, they are renowned for their warm, friendly nature, often referred to as “gentle giants.”

Leonbergers possess a distinctive, lion-like mane around their neck and chest, a feature that adds to their noble and impressive stature. Their coat is thick and water-resistant, typically in shades of lion-yellow, red, red-brown, or sandy.black and white short coated dog on snow covered ground during daytime

Personality-wise, Leonbergers are extremely affectionate and devoted to their families. They are known for their patience and are particularly good with children, often showing a nurturing and protective instinct. Despite their size, they are surprisingly agile and enjoy activities that keep them both physically and mentally stimulated. Leonbergers are social animals and thrive on human companionship, making them poor candidates for being left alone for long periods. They are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them fairly trainable, although their size and strength call for consistent, early training and socialization. Their calm and gentle temperament, coupled with their striking appearance, makes them a beloved breed among large-dog enthusiasts.

Adopting or rescuing a Boulder mutt from a humane society or animal shelter is an incredibly rewarding experience that goes beyond just bringing home a new pet. These mixed-breed dogs often come from less than ideal circumstances, such as abandonment, neglect, or overcrowding in shelters. By choosing to adopt, potential pet owners are not only giving these animals a second chance at life but also making a stand against the commercial breeding of pets.

brown short coated dog wearing white and black shirt

Mutts, with their diverse genetic backgrounds, often enjoy a robust health, thanks to the phenomenon of “heterosis,” known as “hybrid vigor.” This term refers to the increased vitality and health traits that offspring can inherit when two genetically diverse individuals mate. As a result, mutts often have fewer genetic health problems compared to purebred dogs, potentially leading to a longer and happier life for both the dog and its owner.

One of the most heartwarming aspects of adopting a rescue dog is their loyalty and affection. There’s a common belief among pet owners that rescue dogs, including mutts, seem to understand that they’ve been given a second chance. Many adopters report a unique bond with their rescue pets, characterized by deep loyalty and affection. This bond is often attributed to the dog’s awareness of being rescued from a life of uncertainty in a pound or shelter.

leonberger, dog, animal

Adopting from the Humane Society or similar organizations also supports their vital work. These institutions not only provide shelter and care for animals in need but also advocate for animal welfare and work to educate the public about responsible pet ownership. By choosing to adopt, individuals are contributing to a larger movement that promotes the well-being of all animals.

In summary, adopting a rescue mutt offers a host of benefits: it contributes to animal welfare, often results in healthier pets, and fosters a unique and rewarding bond between pet and owner. It’s a compassionate choice that enriches the lives of both the adopter and the adopted.

Leonard Frieling
  • Senior Counsel Emeritus to the Boulder Law firm Dolan + Zimmerman LLP : (720)-610-0951
  • Former Judge
  • Photographer of the Year, AboutBoulder 2023
  • First Chair and Originator of the Colorado Bar Association’s Cannabis Law Committee, a National first.
  • Previous Chair, Boulder Criminal Defense Bar (8 years)
  • Twice chair Executive Counsel, Colorado Bar Association Criminal Law Section
  • NORML Distinguished Counsel Circle
  • Life Member, NORML Legal Committee
  • Life Member, Colorado Criminal Defense Bar
  • Board Member Emeritus, Colorado NORML
  • Chair, Colorado NORML, 7 years including during the successful effort to legalize recreational pot in Colorado
  • Media work, including episodes of Fox’s Power of Attorney, well in excess of many hundreds media interviews, appearances, articles, and podcasts, including co-hosting Time For Hemp for two years.
  • Board member, Author, and Editor for Criminal Law Articles for the Colorado Lawyer, primary publication of the Colorado Bar Assoc. 7 Years, in addition to having 2 Colorado Lawyer cover photos, and numerous articles for the Colorado Lawyer monthly publication.
  • LEAP Speaker, multi-published author, University lectures Univ. of Colorado, Boulder, Denver University Law School, Univ. of New Mexico, Las Vegas NM, and many other schools at all levels.
  • http://www.Lfrieling.com
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