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Havanese

Chinese Crested Dog

Bichon Frise

Lowchen

Description

Lowchen means "little lion dog," and in France the breed is known as le petit chien lion. Sharing common roots with other members of the Bichon family including the Bichon Frise and Havanese, among others. France, Germany and Russia have all laid claim to the breed however, the exact time and place of its origin is obscure, but dogs resembling the Lowchen, sporting the distinctive lion trim, have be found in 16th-century German art.  By 1960 however the popularity of this breed had declined to such an extent that it was listed as the rarest dog in the world, although numbers have improved since then. Through the efforts of two breeders; several related dogs from Germany were brought to Britain. Because of their small numbers, these dogs were interbred extensively and formed the basis of the breed in Britain as well as America.

Temperament

What lively, inquisitive and affectionate little dogs these are with a mixture of being a playful spirit and calm soul mate to a good companion for a quiet family. It is always more than willing to please and responsive to commands, and it is devoted to its family. However, if lacking attention or bored some dogs may bark or dig a lot.

Appearance

Height:  25-33cm. (10-13")

Weight: 5-9 kg  (11-20lbs)

Group: Toy Dog

Even though the Lowchen (also called the ‘Little Lion’) is considered part of the Bichon group, they stand out in a crowd due to their unique clipped and shaved appearance.  Left unclipped these dogs have a long coated scruffy look. They have a short, small well proportioned body with a short head, a black skull, a black nose, round, dark, intelligent eyes and a medium-length tail. The coat is long and wavy, especially around the ears and colours vary from chocolate and apricot, chocolate and cream, gold, sable, black and tan, blue and cream, and parti-colours.

Grooming

The coat should be combed and brushed regularly to prevent tangles from forming. They shed little to no hair and any dead hair should be brushed out. This breed is ideal for allergy sufferers. The Löwchen is usually clipped in the hindquarters, the section of the tail closest to the body, and front leg areas are close-clipped. If you don't have the time to bath or groom your dog, your local  dog grooming salon provides these services.

Life Expectancy

12 - 14 Years

Health Concerns

The Lowchen is a generally healthy breed, although some lines are prone to patellar luxation.

Suitability

This is one small dog and as long as it gets exercised regularly, virtually can be kept in any dwelling, small or large.  Even though they are suitable for children (although very small children should not be put with puppies) and adults alike including the elderly, their often puppy like behaviour may not suit some potential owners.

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