The little lion dog or lowchen is a small dog, very friendly and sociable with people. Interestingly, the name of the lion dog comes from typical haircut in the breed, and not from any natural phenotypic characteristic. Although it is not known exactly where these dogs come from, the truth is that the International Cinological Federation suggests that they are of French origin.
If you are thinking of adopting a small lion dog, you cannot miss this breed file on our site, in which we explain everything you need to know to be clear about what it is like, how to care for it and how to train this type of dogs, which are ideal as pets, very homey and attached to their human family.
Origin of the Little Lion Dog
This is one of the oldest dog breeds known. Its existence is known in the 16th century from paintings in which a dog exactly like the Lowchen is portrayed. However, the origin of the breed is unknown and although the FCI assigns him to France, other countries such as Germany and Russia claim his nationality.
The population of these dogs declined during World War II to the point where the breed almost became extinct. Fortunately for the world dog community, two amateur breeders of the little lion dog were in charge of recovering the breed with a few specimens that they were able to protect in England. Unfortunately, the initial population was very small and the degree of inbreeding is very high in this breed, even though it seems to have had no effect on possible diseases.
Today the little lion dog is a well-known pet in some European countries, but little known in other continents. Either way, the breed is not in danger of disappearing. On the contrary, it seems to be gaining more and more popularity.
Physical Characteristics of the Little Lion Dog
According to the FCI standard for the breed, the ideal height at the withers varies between 26 and 32 centimeters. The ideal weight, meanwhile, is around 6 kilograms.
This dog's body is small, robust for its size, with a slim silhouette and a square profile. The topline is straight, while the loin is deep and the belly well raised.
The head of the little lion dog is wide and relatively short, with a flattened roof of the skull. The stop is moderately defined. The nose is dark brown in brown dogs and black in all other dogs. The eyes are large, dark, round and frontally arranged. The ears are set low, moderately long and hanging.
The tail of the lowchen originates just below the line of the back and curves gracefully over the dog's back, but does not touch it. In the typical haircut, it has a plume at the end.
This dog's hair is single-coated, silky, long, wavy and dense. In the typical cut for the breed the rear region of the dog is shaved, including the hind legs, but a tuft is left on the end of the tail and on the feet. In this way, the appearance of a mane is given and is therefore known as a "lion grooming". All colors and color combinations are accepted in this breed.
Little Lion Dog Character
Affectionate, relaxed and playful, little lion dogs make ideal pets. Although they are playful, they can also behave calmly and quietly. These dogs are very attached to their families and tend to be especially attached to one person, whom they follow most of the time.
These companion dogs are easy to socialize, although you have to start doing it when they are still puppies. Properly socialized they usually get along very well with people, dogs and other animals. Of course, lowchen who have received poor socialization will be shy or aggressive.
Among the most common behavior problems are excessive barking and holes in the yard. Fortunately, those behaviors are often prevented (or at least greatly reduced) by giving these dogs the physical and mental exercise they need.
Unfortunately, these little lion dogs are also prone to separation anxiety, which is a more serious problem. It is important to provide them with the company they need, but they must also be taught to be alone without becoming anxious.
Dogs of this breed can be excellent pets for people and families who have enough time to spend with them, and who can put up with the lowchen's demands for attention. Although these dogs get along well with children, they are not good pets for young children, as the canines are often injured by rough treatment from human puppies.
Little lion dog care
The fur of the little lion dog tends to tangle easily, so it is necessary to brush it at least every other day. Show dogs should go to the dog groomer every month or every two months. Pet dogs may keep their full coat or wear a cut that facilitates grooming, other than the lion grooming. Lowchens are hypoallergenic dogs because they don't shed
These dogs need to play and exercise daily, but because of their small size they don't need much space for this. Even so, it is important that they go for a walk every day, to socialize and exercise. It's also good for them to have some playtime and receive dog obedience training.
What is non-negotiable in these dogs is their demand for company and attention They need to be accompanied most of the time and demand attention frequent. If they have a garden they can use it to play, as long as they are not alone, but they must sleep inside the house. They adapt very well to life in apartments and in densely populated cities.
Little lion dog education
These dogs also respond very well to dog training without the need to resort to dominance or forceful submission of the dog. On the contrary, Lowchens respond exceptionally well to positive training and particularly to clicker training.
Little Lion Dog He alth
Overall, this is a he althy breed and no diseases are known to occur at a high incidence. However, patellar luxation is relatively common, so preventive and/or curative measures recommended by the veterinarian must be taken.
