Lowchen dog breed information
Lowchen color
any colors or combinations
Lowchen height
12-14 inches
Lowchen weight
8-18 lbs
Lowchen description
The Löwchen, also called the Little Lion, has a short head with a broad skull, a black nose, and round, dark, intelligent eyes. It has pendent, feathered ears. Its body is short and well proportioned, with a medium-length tail. The hair is long and wavy, but not curly. The most sought-after colors are white, black and lemon, but speckled dogs are also acceptable. The body of the Löwchen should be clipped in the hindquarters, the section of the tail closest to the body, and part of the front legs should be close-clipped to give it the look of a lion.
Lowchen origin
French in origin, this spunky breed is a true European, with progenitors throughout the countries of southern Europe. It was popular in Italy, Spain, France and Germany as early as the 1500's. Its popularity continued through the 1800's. Goya is one of many artists to have featured the Löwchen on canvas. With the coming of the 20th century and the two World Wars, the popularity of the Löwchen waned. By 1960, they were granted the title "rarest breed" by the Guinness Book of World records. No longer, however, do they win the dubitable claim to fame as the "rarest breed."
Lowchen temperament
The Löwchen is a cheerful, lively, affectionate dog. Sociable and intelligent, it is eager to learn. These dogs are fearless, but gentle and sensitive. Löwchen usually learn quickly and present little difficulty in their training. Playful, they are good with children and usually will do okay with other dogs as well as non-canine pets. Its lion-cut coat makes it look fragile and rather undignified, although this is definitely not the case. The Löwchen is a robust, even tough dog which can be strong-willed and arrogant. Males, in particular, are quite willing to challenge other large household dogs for leadership. A lot of times they will usually be "top dog" even though they are not the biggest dog in the house. If necessary it will defend its house with intense barking. They are not hyperactive, but some may bark or dig a lot.
Lowchen health problems
This is a generally healthy breed, although some lines are prone to patellar luxation.
Lowchen living conditions
The Löwchen are good for apartment life. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard.
Lowchen exercise
The Löwchen enjoy long walks, but will adapt to your lifestyle as far as exercise goes.
Lowchen life expectancy
About 12-14 years.
Lowchen grooming
To prevent tangles from forming, the coat should be combed and brushed regularly. The Löwchen is usually clipped in the hindquarters, the section of the tail closest to the body, and front leg areas are close-clipped, regardless of whether they are shown or not, giving them the name "Little Lion Dog," although some owners prefer to give it a puppy clip. This breed sheds little to no hair. Dead hair should be brushed out. This breed is good for allergy sufferers.
Lowchen recognition
CKC, FCI, AKC, KCGB, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR
