Leonberger vs Saluki

Working · Giant vs Hound · Large

Quick take
  • Leonberger is the larger breed at 110–170 lbs (males) vs 40–65 lbs for the Saluki.
  • The Saluki typically lives longer (10–17 years).
  • The Saluki has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Saluki sheds less.
  • The Leonberger is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitLeonbergerSaluki
Group
WorkingHound
Size
GiantLarge
Origin
GermanyEgypt
Height (male)
28–31.5"23–28"
Height (female)
25.5–29.5"23–28"
Weight (male)
110–170 lbs40–65 lbs
Weight (female)
90–140 lbs40–65 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
7–10 years10–17 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Leonberger

The Leonberger is a friendly, gentle, playful giant — bred to resemble a lion, with a famous black-masked golden mane. Originally from Germany, this giant working breed typically weighs 110–170 lbs and lives 7–10 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, gentle, playful.

About the Saluki

The Saluki is a graceful, dignified, gentle Persian sighthound — one of the world's oldest breeds, depicted on Egyptian tombs. Originally from Egypt, this large hound breed typically weighs 40–65 lbs and lives 10–17 years. Breeders describe them as graceful, dignified, gentle.

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Leonberger health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bone cancer
  • Bloat
  • Polyneuropathy

Saluki health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Heart disease
  • Cancer
  • Anesthesia sensitivity