Lowchen
The little lion dog — clipped like royalty, rare as it looks.
Vital stats
| Size | Small · 26–32 cm |
| Weight | 4–8 kg |
| Life expectancy | 13–15 years |
| Energy | Moderate — 30–45 min/day |
| Shedding | Minimal — single coat |
| Coat | Long, wavy single coat · all colours, traditional lion clip |
| Group | Non-sporting · FCI №233 / AKC |
Breed traits
Friendliness
Care
Mind
Temperament
Bred purely for companionship in the courts and townhouses of Renaissance Europe, the Löwchen has no working baggage — just centuries of practice at being delightful. Expect a cheerful, outgoing little dog that learns quickly, greets the world warmly, and treats time apart from its people as a clerical error to be corrected.
Habits & quirks
Lap by default
Wherever you sit becomes a two-seat arrangement within the minute.
Pocket athlete
Between cuddles: real bursts of play, agility talent and garden sprints.
The town crier
Alert and quick to announce callers — a courtier's dog still keeps the court informed.
Gallery regular
Little lion dogs appear in European paintings and tapestries going back five centuries — posing is in the blood.
Care
| Grooming | Brush the silky single coat every day or two to stop mats; the lion clip is for the show ring, not a requirement. |
| Companionship | The real need: this breed does poorly left alone for long days. Plan your life accordingly. |
| Exercise | Two short walks and a play session keep it content — happy in a flat. |
| Training | Bright and eager; positive methods make house manners and tricks come easily. |
Common questions
Why is the Löwchen clipped like a lion?
The lion trim — shaved hindquarters with a full mane — has been the breed's signature since at least the 1500s, shown in period art. Today it's tradition and show convention; pet Löwchen often wear an all-over puppy clip.
Are Löwchen hypoallergenic?
No dog truly is, but the non-shedding single coat releases little hair and dander into the house. Many allergy-prone owners manage well — always spend time with the breed before committing.
Is the Löwchen still rare?
Yes — numbers have recovered from the near-extinction of the 1970s, but yearly registrations remain small worldwide. Expect a search and a waiting list for a good breeder.