We figured the heading might snag your attention, but if we were to tell you that some dog breeds are “dimorphic,” might your mind wander just a little?

The definition isn’t lewd, honest. Being a dimorphic dog breed simply means that female and male dogs of that breed are noticeably different. A good example is the Leonberger.  At the upper end of the height range, an adult male Leo can be up to 31½ inches in height, while his female counterpart can be up to 29½ inches, a two inch difference. The breed standard states that while weight is in proportion to the overall size and structure, the boys tend to be decidedly more “masculine” and can reach upwards of 170 pounds, while the ladies average out, we’re told, at 130 pounds, give or take a few pounds. That’s quite a difference!  Male Leos may also have longer hair on their neck and chest (known as a mane) when they reach full maturity, while the girls’ mane is less pronounced.

We’d love to hear from Leonberger owners to learn if this is true because you are the breed experts. Pictures posted below of  your dogs are especially appreciated!

Image: “Leonberger Pair” by LA Shepard/thedoglover
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