actually the Leo community IS tightly knit but they only know and control CLUB MEMBER BREEDINGS. There is no law that you need to be a club member...I for example, am not...nor do I plan to be until I decide if it is right for me. You can import a pair of Leo's from Europe reg w/AKC and breed them without any interference from the Club. They do NOT actually...control to that extent...zoiMom.
Leo litters are on puppyfind, they are in petstores, and there are BYB's JUST LIKE ANY OTHER BREED.
The Leo is currently in the AKC as a member of the MISCELLANEOUS group and it is expected to be entered into the Working group. When you buy a puppy...you deal with AKC if you want some sort of papers on the dog unless your breeder is with UKC. LCA is no longer issuing papers they have all been turned over to the AKC for their acceptance.
This dog looks to be a Leo X the ears and neck are wrong...the coat matches...but to me Leo X would not be a totally crazy statement. Leo rescue is extremely proactive and would likely love to look at this dog as it is easier to tell in person. They have prior taken in Leo/Saint mixes etc so if the OP needs input on Leo rescues...let me know.