Lander
Breed Description

The Lander is known by several variations of its name across different regions and kennel organizations. In its native Germany, the breed may be referenced in historical documentation as the "Kromi," an affectionate shortened form used by breed enthusiasts and owners. This nickname reflects the close bond that develops between these dogs and their families.

Within breeding circles and among international fanciers, the Lander may occasionally be referred to as the "German Companion Dog" or "German Wire-hair," particularly when distinguishing between the two coat varieties that exist within the breed. These descriptive names help identify the breed's origin and primary characteristics for those unfamiliar with the specific breed name.

Some historical references may include variations such as "Westphalian Companion Dog," referencing the specific region in Germany where the breed was first developed. However, the name "Lander" has become the standard designation used by most major kennel organizations and breed registries worldwide.

The Lander stands as a distinctive medium-sized companion breed that perfectly embodies the qualities of an ideal family dog. This remarkable breed combines intelligence, loyalty, and an engaging personality in a compact, manageable package that adapts well to various living situations. With their expressive eyes and characteristic facial features, Landers possess an almost human-like ability to communicate with their owners through subtle expressions and body language.

Physically, the Lander presents a well-balanced, slightly rectangular silhouette that conveys both athleticism and elegance. Their sturdy build reflects their heritage as a practical companion dog, capable of participating in family activities while maintaining the refined appearance that makes them suitable for various social situations. The breed's proportions are carefully balanced, with the length of body slightly exceeding the height at the withers, creating a harmonious outline that suggests both agility and stability.

One of the most striking features of the Lander is the distinctive white blaze that runs down the center of their face, creating a symmetrical marking that serves as one of their identifying characteristics. This facial marking, combined with their dark, intelligent eyes and alert expression, gives each Lander a unique and memorable appearance that endears them to everyone they meet.

The Lander comes in two distinct coat varieties, each with its own appeal and maintenance requirements. The wire-haired variety features a more rustic appearance with a characteristic beard and longer facial hair that gives them an almost wise, distinguished look. These dogs have a coarser outer coat that provides excellent protection from the elements while maintaining a neat, well-groomed appearance with proper care.

The smooth-haired variety presents a more refined appearance with a soft, close-lying coat that requires less intensive grooming but still provides adequate protection in various weather conditions. Both varieties share the same excellent temperament and working abilities, with the choice between them often coming down to personal preference regarding grooming requirements and aesthetic appeal.

The breed's coloring typically consists of a predominantly white base coat adorned with symmetrical patches of brown, tan, or buff coloring. These markings appear in specific patterns that enhance the breed's distinctive appearance, with the most desirable dogs showing clear, well-defined color boundaries and symmetric placement of colored patches. The white blaze between the eyes is considered an essential breed characteristic and is highly valued in breeding programs.

In terms of size, the Lander represents the ideal compromise between a dog large enough to be a substantial companion yet small enough to be manageable in urban environments. Their moderate size makes them excellent travel companions while still providing the presence and personality that makes them effective watchdogs and family guardians.

American Kennel Club (AKC)

The Lander is currently recognized in the AKC Foundation Stock Service program as part of the pathway toward full breed recognition. The AKC standard emphasizes the breed's role as a companion dog, noting their distinctive facial blaze and two coat varieties. The standard calls for a medium-sized dog with a slightly rectangular body outline, standing 15-18 inches at the withers. Males should appear distinctly masculine while females should display refined femininity. The temperament must be loyal, intelligent, and affectionate without aggression or excessive shyness. The characteristic white blaze centered between the eyes is considered essential. Both coat varieties are equally acceptable, with the wire-haired showing a distinct beard and the smooth-haired having a soft, close-lying coat. Color should be predominantly white with symmetrical brown, tan, or buff markings.

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

Under FCI recognition, the Lander is classified in Group 9 (Companion and Toy Dogs), Section 10 (Kromfohrlander). The FCI standard provides detailed specifications for both coat varieties, emphasizing the breed's development as a companion rather than a working dog. The standard specifies that dogs should measure 38-46 cm at the withers, with males weighing 11-16 kg and females approximately 2 kg less. The head should be proportional with a slightly rounded skull and dark, medium-sized eyes. Ears are triangular, carried erect when alert, and set moderately apart. The double coat should be weather-resistant in both varieties. The rough-haired coat is coarse with longer hair on the muzzle forming a beard, while the smooth variety has soft, close-lying hair. Temperament should be lively, good-natured, and intelligent, with strong devotion to the family.

United Kennel Club (UKC)

The UKC recognizes the Lander in the Companion Dog Group, having moved it from the Terrier Group to better reflect its true purpose as a companion breed. The UKC standard emphasizes the breed's unique origin story and its development specifically for companionship rather than working purposes. The standard describes a well-balanced dog with a sturdy but not heavy build, slightly longer than tall. The head should have a distinctive white blaze, dark oval eyes, and triangular ears. The standard notes that despite terrier ancestry, the breed should show little to no prey drive or hunting instinct. Both coat varieties are acceptable, with specific grooming requirements for each. The temperament should be cheerful, affectionate, and adaptable, with particular emphasis on the breed's tendency to form strong bonds with one family member while remaining friendly to all.

Other Organizations

The Continental Kennel Club and various other registries recognize the Lander with standards that closely follow the FCI guidelines while allowing for some regional interpretation. The German breed organizations maintain the original standard that emphasizes health, temperament, and the distinctive appearance that makes the breed unique. Some specialty organizations focus on preserving the breed's genetic diversity while maintaining the essential characteristics that define the Lander. Working dog organizations recognize the breed but note its unsuitability for traditional working roles, instead emphasizing its excellence in therapy work, agility, and other companion dog activities. International breed clubs often coordinate to ensure consistency in breeding standards while allowing for slight regional preferences in size or coat characteristics.

The history of the Lander is one of the most unique and compelling origin stories in the dog world, beginning during the chaotic final days of World War II in 1945. The breed's foundation can be traced to a single remarkable dog named Peter, who became an unofficial mascot for American troops during their advance through German territory. Peter's exact origins remain somewhat mysterious, though he was believed to be a mix of terrier and griffon-type breeds, possibly including Grand Griffon Vendéen and Wire Fox Terrier bloodlines.

Peter's journey with the American forces took him from northern France through the challenging terrain of war-torn Germany. During this period, he demonstrated the adaptability, intelligence, and loyalty that would later become hallmarks of the breed he would help create. However, fate intervened when Peter became separated from his military unit near the town of Siegen in the Westphalia region of Germany. Lost and alone in a foreign land, Peter's story could have ended tragically, but instead, it marked the beginning of something extraordinary.

The pivotal moment in Lander history occurred when Peter was discovered by Ilse Schleifenbaum, a woman whose life would become inextricably linked with the development of this new breed. Schleifenbaum, who had been a concert pianist before the war, possessed both the patience and dedication necessary for the challenging task of breed development. She took Peter into her home in the area known as "Krom Fohr" (meaning "crooked furrow" in the local dialect), from which the breed's original name would eventually derive.

Living in Schleifenbaum's household was a female dog named Fiffi, described as an elderly Fox Terrier type of uncertain pedigree. The chance mating between Peter and Fiffi produced a litter that would prove to be the foundation of the entire breed. What made this litter remarkable was the unusual consistency among the puppies – they resembled each other far more closely than is typical in random crossbreeding, and they displayed characteristics that were distinctly different from any existing breed.

Recognizing the potential in these unique puppies, Schleifenbaum embarked on a careful breeding program aimed at establishing and refining the traits she observed. She established her kennel with the name "vom Wellersberg" and began the meticulous work of selective breeding. Her friend Otto Borner joined the effort by starting a second kennel called "vom Lenneberg," providing additional genetic diversity while maintaining the breed's essential characteristics.

The early years of breed development were marked by careful observation and selection for specific traits that Schleifenbaum valued: a friendly, loyal temperament; intelligence and trainability; moderate size suitable for companionship; and the distinctive physical characteristics that would come to define the breed. Unlike many breed development programs that focused on working ability or specific physical traits for show purposes, the Lander breeding program prioritized creating the ideal companion dog.

The breed's development occurred during a time when Germany was rebuilding from the devastation of war, and companion animals played an important role in providing emotional support and normalcy to families recovering from trauma. The Lander's gentle, adaptable nature made them particularly well-suited to this role, and word of these exceptional dogs began to spread throughout the region.

Formal recognition came relatively quickly for such a new breed. In 1955, just ten years after Peter's fateful encounter with Fiffi, the Lander received recognition from the Verband für das Deutsche Hundewesen (German Dog Federation) and was also accepted by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale. This rapid recognition was a testament to the breed's stability and the quality of the early breeding programs.

The breed made its public debut at an international dog show in Dortmund in 1955, where it attracted considerable attention from dog fanciers and the general public alike. The unique appearance and charming temperament of these dogs made an immediate impression, and interest in the breed began to spread beyond Germany's borders.

International expansion of the breed began in 1956 when Finnish breeder Maria Åkerblom encountered three Landers at a dog show in Oldenburg. Impressed by their temperament and appearance, she acquired several dogs from Schleifenbaum's kennel, including a female that would become the foundation of the Finnish breeding program. The first litter in Finland was born in 1962, establishing a second center for breed development that would prove crucial for maintaining genetic diversity.

Finland became particularly important for the breed's survival and development, with some years seeing more Lander registrations there than in Germany. This geographic distribution helped ensure the breed's survival and provided opportunities for outcrossing that helped maintain genetic health. From Finland, the breed eventually spread to other Scandinavian countries and beyond.

The breed reached Switzerland in 1970 and gradually spread to Denmark, the Netherlands, and eventually to North America. In 1997, the first Landers were imported to the United States, though they remained primarily concentrated in Germany and neighboring European countries. The breed's arrival in America marked a new chapter in its development, though the numbers remained small due to the breed's rarity and the careful control maintained by breeders.

Today, the Lander remains one of the rarer dog breeds in the world, with careful breeding programs maintaining the breed's health and characteristics while slowly expanding its geographic presence. The breed's history serves as a reminder of how chance encounters can lead to remarkable outcomes, and how dedicated individuals can preserve and develop something truly special for future generations.

The Lander was developed with a singular focus that sets it apart from most other dog breeds: to serve as the ultimate companion dog. Unlike breeds developed for hunting, herding, guarding, or other specific working functions, the Lander was created specifically to excel in the role of family companion and emotional support partner. This unique purpose has shaped every aspect of the breed's development and continues to define their role in modern society.

The breed's primary function centers around providing unwavering companionship and emotional connection with their human families. Landers excel at reading human emotions and responding appropriately to their owners' needs, whether that means providing comfort during difficult times or sharing in moments of joy and celebration. Their intuitive understanding of human behavior and their desire to remain close to their people makes them exceptional in this role.

As family companions, Landers demonstrate remarkable adaptability to their household's lifestyle and routine. They seem to possess an almost supernatural ability to sense when their family needs a playful, energetic presence and when quiet, calm companionship is more appropriate. This adaptability extends to their exercise needs – they can be content with moderate daily walks and indoor play, but they're equally happy to join in more vigorous outdoor activities when the opportunity arises.

The breed's function as a therapy and emotional support animal has gained recognition in recent years. Their gentle, intuitive nature and strong desire to connect with humans makes them excellent candidates for therapy work in hospitals, nursing homes, and other care facilities. Many Landers have found purpose in providing comfort to individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, or other emotional challenges, demonstrating their value extends far beyond simple companionship.

Despite their terrier ancestry, Landers show remarkably low prey drive and hunting instinct, making them suitable for households with various types of pets. This characteristic was specifically selected for during the breed's development, as breeders focused on creating dogs that would integrate seamlessly into family life without the complications that can arise from strong hunting or chasing instincts.

The breed functions exceptionally well as a watchdog, alerting families to visitors or unusual activity without displaying excessive aggression or territorial behavior. Their natural wariness of strangers, combined with their loyalty to family, creates an ideal balance that provides security without creating problems with neighbors or visitors. They tend to bark to alert rather than to threaten, making them suitable for various living situations.

In terms of modern dog sports and activities, Landers have found success in several areas that showcase their intelligence and eagerness to please. Agility training appeals to their athletic nature and desire to work closely with their handlers, while obedience competitions highlight their trainability and focus. Some Landers have also excelled in nosework and tracking activities, demonstrating that while they may not have been bred for these purposes, they retain enough natural ability to enjoy and succeed in these pursuits.

The breed's function in urban environments is particularly noteworthy. Their moderate size, minimal grooming requirements (especially the smooth-coated variety), and adaptable exercise needs make them well-suited to apartment living and city life. They don't require large yards or extensive daily exercise routines, though they appreciate and benefit from regular outdoor activities and social interaction.

Travel companionship represents another area where Landers excel. Their moderate size makes them practical travel partners, while their calm, adaptable temperament allows them to adjust to new environments and situations without excessive stress or behavioral problems. Many Lander owners find that their dogs adapt quickly to hotel stays, camping trips, and other travel situations that might be challenging for more sensitive or set-in-their-ways breeds.

The breed's function as a social facilitator should not be underestimated. Their friendly, approachable appearance and gentle nature often serve as conversation starters and help their owners connect with other dog lovers and community members. This social aspect of their function adds to their value as companion animals, particularly for individuals who may benefit from increased social interaction.

Educational roles have also emerged for some Landers, particularly in programs designed to teach children about responsible pet ownership and animal care. Their patient, gentle nature and moderate size make them ideal for these purposes, while their intelligence allows them to participate in structured educational activities without becoming overwhelmed or stressed.

Looking toward the future, the Lander's function continues to evolve as society's understanding of the human-animal bond deepens. Their natural abilities in emotional support and companionship position them well for expanded roles in therapeutic settings, while their adaptability ensures they will continue to serve as excellent family companions regardless of how living situations and lifestyles change in the coming decades.

The behavioral characteristics of the Lander reflect decades of selective breeding for the ideal companion dog temperament. These dogs exhibit a remarkable balance of intelligence, sensitivity, and adaptability that makes them uniquely suited to modern family life. Their behavior patterns demonstrate a deep understanding of human emotions and social dynamics, allowing them to integrate seamlessly into family routines while maintaining their own distinct personality.

One of the most notable behavioral traits of the Lander is their intense devotion to their human family, particularly their tendency to form an especially strong bond with one family member. While they remain friendly and affectionate with all family members, they often choose a "special person" who becomes the center of their world. This person-focused behavior stems from their breeding as companion dogs and reflects their desire to form deep, meaningful relationships rather than casual associations.

Intelligence manifests in the Lander through their remarkable ability to learn and adapt to complex household routines. They quickly understand family schedules, anticipate daily activities, and adjust their behavior accordingly. This cognitive flexibility allows them to be calm and quiet when the household is subdued, then shift to playful and energetic modes when the family is ready for interaction and activity.

The breed displays what can best be described as emotional intelligence – an ability to read human moods and respond appropriately. Landers seem to sense when their owners are stressed, sad, or upset, often responding by offering comfort through gentle physical contact or simply remaining quietly nearby. Conversely, they recognize and participate in family excitement, celebrations, and playful moments with appropriate enthusiasm.

Sensitivity represents both a strength and a consideration when dealing with Landers. These dogs respond poorly to harsh training methods or excessive pressure, instead thriving under patient, positive approaches that respect their gentle nature. Their sensitivity extends to environmental factors as well – they may be affected by household stress, changes in routine, or conflict between family members, often displaying this through subtle changes in appetite, sleep patterns, or general demeanor.

Social behavior with strangers demonstrates the breed's natural caution without aggression. Landers typically observe new people carefully before deciding whether to approach or maintain distance. They're rarely aggressive or fearful, instead displaying a polite reserve that can evolve into friendliness once they've determined that a stranger poses no threat to their family. This discriminating approach to new relationships makes them excellent judges of character.

Play behavior in Landers is characterized by enthusiasm and intelligence rather than overwhelming intensity. They enjoy interactive games that challenge their minds, such as puzzle toys, hide-and-seek, and learning new tricks or commands. Their play style tends to be collaborative rather than competitive – they prefer games that involve cooperation with their human partners rather than purely independent activities.

Communication is an area where Landers excel, using a combination of vocalizations, body language, and facial expressions to convey their needs and emotions. They're not typically excessive barkers, but they use their voices purposefully to alert, request attention, or express excitement. Their expressive faces and mobile ears contribute to their communication repertoire, often making their intentions and feelings quite clear to observant owners.

The breed's adaptability extends to their living arrangements and lifestyle adjustments. Landers can transition from quiet apartment living to active suburban life with remarkable ease, adjusting their activity levels and behavioral patterns to match their environment. This flexibility makes them suitable for various family situations, from young couples to families with children to senior citizens seeking companionship.

Routine-oriented behavior is common among Landers, who often establish and prefer predictable daily patterns. They typically thrive when meals, walks, play sessions, and rest periods occur at consistent times, though they can adapt when necessary changes occur. This preference for routine may stem from their sensitivity and their desire to understand and anticipate their family's needs.

Learning behavior in Landers is characterized by thoughtfulness and retention. They often observe new situations carefully before acting, preferring to understand what's expected rather than attempting trial-and-error approaches. Once they've learned something, they tend to remember it well, making training a cumulative process that builds upon previous lessons.

Attention-seeking behavior is generally moderate and appropriate in well-socialized Landers. They enjoy being the center of attention but rarely demand it inappropriately. Instead, they often position themselves where they can observe family activities and be available for interaction when invited. This balanced approach to attention-seeking makes them pleasant household companions who add to family life without becoming overwhelming or demanding.

Stress responses in Landers are typically subtle and may include withdrawal, changes in eating patterns, or increased clinginess to their favored family member. Understanding these behavioral signals helps owners identify when their dog needs additional support, environmental changes, or potentially veterinary attention if stress-related behaviors persist.

The integration of a Lander into family life represents one of the most rewarding aspects of this exceptional breed. These dogs were specifically developed to excel in family environments, and their behavior and temperament reflect generations of selective breeding for traits that enhance family harmony and companionship. Understanding how Landers interact within family structures helps potential owners appreciate the depth of connection these dogs can bring to household dynamics.

Within the family hierarchy, Landers naturally position themselves as devoted companions rather than dominant figures. They seem to understand their role as beloved family members without challenging human authority or creating conflicts over resources or territory. This innate understanding of family structure makes them excellent additions to households where clear, gentle leadership is established and maintained by the human family members.

The breed's relationship with children deserves particular attention, as Landers consistently demonstrate remarkable patience and gentleness with young family members. Their moderate size makes them substantial enough to handle typical childhood interactions without being overwhelming or potentially dangerous. They often develop special protective relationships with children in the family, serving as both playmates and gentle guardians who seem to understand the need for careful behavior around smaller humans.

Landers excel at adapting their energy levels and play styles to match the ages and needs of children in the household. With toddlers, they tend to be calm and patient, allowing gentle petting and interaction without becoming overstimulated. With older children, they can engage in more active play while still maintaining appropriate boundaries and gentleness. Their intelligence allows them to distinguish between appropriate and inappropriate childhood behavior, often removing themselves from situations that become too chaotic or overwhelming.

The breed's tendency to form particularly strong bonds with one family member can create interesting dynamics within households. While this special relationship enhances the bond between dog and chosen person, it's important for all family members to participate in the dog's care and training to ensure they remain responsive to everyone in the household. This selective bonding rarely creates problems if managed properly from puppyhood through consistent positive interactions with all family members.

Multi-generational families often find Landers particularly valuable, as these dogs seem to instinctively understand and adapt to the varying needs of different age groups within the household. They can be energetic playmates for children, calm companions for adults, and gentle, comforting presences for elderly family members. This versatility makes them ideal for households where several generations live together or frequently interact.

The breed's integration with other pets typically proceeds smoothly when introductions are handled properly. Their low prey drive and generally peaceful nature make them compatible with cats, especially when socialized together from a young age. They often enjoy the company of other dogs, though their preference for human companionship means they don't typically require canine friends to be content and well-adjusted.

In households with multiple pets, Landers rarely compete aggressively for attention or resources. They're more likely to wait patiently for their turn or to find alternative ways to gain attention than to create conflicts with other animals. This peaceable nature contributes to harmonious multi-pet households where stress and competition are minimized.

Daily routines in Lander households often revolve around the dog's natural desire to participate in family activities. These dogs rarely content themselves with being peripheral observers – they want to be involved in whatever the family is doing, whether that's outdoor activities, quiet evenings at home, or social gatherings with friends and extended family. Their adaptability allows them to enhance rather than disrupt family routines.

The breed's communication style within families is remarkably sophisticated. Landers develop unique ways of interacting with different family members, often adapting their approach based on each person's personality and preferences. They may be more playful with some family members and more calm and cuddly with others, demonstrating their ability to read and respond to individual human personalities.

Family travel and activities are often enhanced by the Lander's presence. Their moderate size, calm temperament, and adaptability make them excellent travel companions who can participate in various family adventures without creating logistical challenges or behavioral problems. They often become integral parts of family vacations, camping trips, and other activities, adding to the enjoyment rather than limiting options.

The emotional support that Landers provide to families extends beyond simple companionship. They often serve as sources of comfort during family stresses, celebrations during happy occasions, and stable, reassuring presences during times of change or uncertainty. Their ability to sense and respond to family emotional dynamics makes them valuable family members who contribute to overall household well-being.

Households with varying schedules often find that Landers adapt well to inconsistent routines, though they appreciate having at least one family member available for regular interaction and care. Their flexibility allows them to adjust to different family members' schedules while maintaining their essential need for companionship and attention.

The Lander benefits from relatively good health compared to many purebred dogs, though like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain genetic and environmental health issues. The breed's development from a limited genetic foundation means that responsible breeding practices and health testing are crucial for maintaining the overall health of the population. Understanding the health considerations specific to Landers helps owners provide optimal care and work with veterinarians to ensure long, healthy lives for their companions.

The breed's moderate size and balanced structure contribute to fewer orthopedic issues than might be seen in larger breeds, though proper attention to joint health throughout the dog's life remains important. Regular exercise, weight management, and appropriate nutrition play significant roles in maintaining musculoskeletal health and preventing problems that could affect mobility and quality of life as the dog ages.

Given the breed's rarity and limited genetic diversity, responsible breeders take genetic testing seriously to identify and prevent the transmission of heritable conditions. The small gene pool that exists in the Lander population makes it particularly important for breeders to make informed decisions about breeding pairs and to maintain detailed health records across generations.

The breed's sensitivity, while a positive trait in terms of temperament, can manifest in health-related ways that owners should understand. Landers may be more susceptible to stress-related health issues and may require careful management during times of household upheaval, travel, or significant routine changes. Their sensitive nature also means they may react more strongly to medications or treatments, requiring careful monitoring during veterinary procedures.

Preventive healthcare for Landers should follow standard canine protocols while taking into account their specific characteristics and potential breed-related concerns. Regular veterinary examinations allow for early detection of any developing issues and provide opportunities to discuss breed-specific health considerations with knowledgeable veterinarians.

Nutrition plays a particularly important role in Lander health, as some individuals in the breed can be selective or finicky eaters. Maintaining proper nutrition and weight is essential for overall health, and owners may need to work with their veterinarians to find feeding strategies that ensure adequate nutrition while accommodating any individual feeding preferences or sensitivities.

The breed's coat varieties require different approaches to skin and coat health. Wire-haired Landers need proper grooming techniques to maintain skin health and prevent coat problems, while smooth-haired dogs require regular brushing to minimize shedding and maintain healthy skin. Both varieties benefit from quality nutrition that supports coat health and skin integrity.

Mental health considerations are particularly important for Landers due to their sensitive nature and strong bonds with their families. Anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders can affect these dogs, particularly if they experience separation from their families, significant routine changes, or inadequate mental stimulation. Recognizing and addressing mental health issues early can prevent them from developing into more serious behavioral or physical problems.

Exercise requirements for health maintenance are moderate but consistent. Landers need regular physical activity to maintain cardiovascular health, muscle tone, and mental well-being, but they don't require the intensive exercise regimens needed by some working breeds. A balanced approach to exercise that includes daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation usually meets their physical and psychological needs.

Dental health requires attention throughout the Lander's life, as with all dogs. Regular dental care, including professional cleanings when necessary and daily dental hygiene practices, helps prevent periodontal disease and its associated health complications. The breed's moderate size and mouth structure typically don't present unusual dental challenges, but consistent care remains important.

Spaying and neutering considerations should be discussed with veterinarians familiar with the breed's characteristics and individual health factors. The timing of these procedures may be influenced by health considerations, behavioral factors, and breeding plans for dogs that will be used for carefully planned breeding programs.

Senior care for aging Landers should focus on maintaining quality of life while managing any age-related health changes. Regular monitoring for cognitive changes, joint health, vision and hearing changes, and other age-related issues helps ensure that senior Landers remain comfortable and engaged as they age. Their generally good health and moderate size often contribute to successful aging when proper care is provided.

If you're looking to adopt a Lander, consider contacting these rescue organizations. Due to the breed's rarity, specific breed rescues are limited, but these resources can help connect you with available dogs:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - While Landers are extremely rare in rescue situations, there are wonderful dogs waiting for their forever homes. Due to the changing nature of rescue organizations, please verify website functionality before contacting.