The Lowchen, member of the AKC Non-sporting dog group, is a small, bright, affectionate, intelligent little dog and full of energy. They are a member of the Bichon family and are also known as Little Lion Dogs.
They have the distinction of being one of the rarest dogs in the world, generally having less than a few hundred new registrations each year - all over the world!
They originated as a companion breed in Pre-Renaissance Europe where ladies of the court groomed it by clipping the dog in the traditional poodle exhibition cut, the lion clip.
Breed characteristics are a compact, balanced body; a relatively short, broad topskull and muzzle and a proud, lively gait that accentuates the lion cut with a long flowing mane.
They may appear to be delicate, but the Lowchen is a robust dog - these quintessential features, combined with an outgoing and positive attitude, result in a dog of great style.
See a few of these dogs in action
An adult Lowchen stands at about 10 to 13 inches in height and weighs between 4 to 9 pounds. This dog breed has been said to have evolved in the Mediterranean area about the same time as the Bichon Frise, the Bichon Bolognese, and the Maltese - they have definitely been well known in both France and Spain from as early on as the late 1500's.
This breed is very good for apartment life or country living as well. Daily brushing is necessary in order to keep this dog breed's coat in good condition. Many owners prefer to take this dog to a professional groomer to get the coat in top shape.
The perfect home is any place where the dog can get plenty of attention. This breed craves attention from it's owner and does quite well with other animals. These dogs require regular exercise such as a brisk walk or a good run in the park.
Country of origin: Europe Lifespan: 13-15 years Colors:All colors acceptable Known health problems: Eye disorders such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy
"When you leave them in the morning, they stick their nose in the door crack and stand there like a portrait until you turn the key eight hours later." - Erma Bombeck
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