Leonbergers in AKC Events

Getting Started in AKC/LCA Events

Kennel di Sforzando is a family kennel dedicated to producing beautiful, sound, and healthy Leonbergers with strong presence of body and mind. Breeding only occasionally, we strive to produce Leonberger puppies who can thrive anywhere from the couch to the show ring and contribute as a loving and balanced family member wherever they go or whatever they do!

On the Fence About What to Do?

Getting started with anything in the dog world is a leap of faith. With a breeder and a community of Leonberger fanciers behind you, however, you can do anything with your Leonberger you put your mind to accomplishing! With the Leonberger's recent recognition in the AKC, even more opportunities have arisen for a competitive role in the canine world.

Conformation

Dog shows are "conformation" events. These are the signature events of the LCA and the AKC. At dog shows, we concentrate on the distinctive features of Leonbergers and help breeders to preserve and enhance these characteristics by providing a forum where judges and spectators can evaluate our breeding stock. Leonbergers are judged against one another and against the breed standard established by the LCA. The standard describes the perfect leonberger's ideal proportions, structure, type, and movement. To get started, check out some of the recommended books and, if you are still interested, seek some lessons in your area and/or attend some local shows to see what all the fuss is about! If you know you have a strong interest in a Leonberger puppy for future conformation shows, definitely share that interest with your breeder; they want you to be successful! We have a guide to understanding conformation.

Agility

Ika, an agile leonberger, running in the snow.

Agility is a canine sport that appeals to all dog lovers. Agility has great spectator appeal and was designed to demonstrate a dog's willingness to work with his handler in a variety of situations. The activity is an athletic event that requires conditioning, concentration, training and teamwork from human and Leonberger alike. Leos and handlers negotiate an obstacle course racing against the clock. Your local dog training club likely can introduce you to the activity.

Obedience

Is your Leonberger puppy an obedience master? Why not take all those obedience classes to the next level? Entering the world of obedience can help your Leonberger realize his potential. Obedience trails occur at every level and you can get started right after you first two levels of dog training! Obedience trials are wonderful demonstrations of the usefulness of our Leonbergers as companions, the amazing intellect and will of our Leonbergers, and the usefulness of our Leos in the world. Obedience trials are a wonderful venue to showcase your Leonberger.