Breed comparison
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Leonberger
How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.
The biggest differences
- Coat grooming: the Leonberger scores 4 out of 5, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog 2.
They score the same on affection with family, good with young children, good with other dogs, openness to strangers, mental stimulation needs, watchdog / protective.
Which one should you choose?
Pick the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog if you want an energetic exercise partner, you want less dog hair. Pick the Leonberger if you prefer a calmer dog, you want a dog that is easier to train, you live in a smaller home or move often.
Ratings are general breed tendencies from the AKC. Every dog is an individual, so meet the dog, and its parents if you can, before you decide. Not sure? Try the breed selector.
Source: American Kennel Club breed ratings (compiled February 2022). How we check.