Löwchen

The Löwchen, or Little Lion Dog, is a small companion breed from Europe. Its name is German for “little lion”, after the traditional clip that leaves a full mane in front and bare hindquarters. It is a rare breed and was once counted the rarest dog in the world: in 1973 only 65 were registered.

History

Little “lion dogs” appear in works of art as far back as the 16th century, but it is unclear whether they were Löwchen or simply small bichon-type dogs given a lion trim. The breed may be related to the Bichon Frise, and its early history remains obscure. It was a companion of the wealthy.

The modern breed can be traced to enthusiasts of the late 19th century in what are now Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands. A Madame Bennerts began a breeding program in 1944. Löwchen were imported into Britain in 1968 and recognized by The Kennel Club in 1971, the year the first dogs reached the United States by way of England and the Löwchen Club of America was formed. The American Kennel Club admitted the breed to its Miscellaneous class in 1996 and recognized it fully in 1999.

Even now only a few hundred new dogs are registered worldwide each year, and the breed is listed as at risk of extinction.

Appearance

The Löwchen is compact, a little off square, with a level back and a tail that curves over the back like a teacup handle when the dog moves. The head is an important feature: a broad skull, a fairly wide muzzle, round, lively eyes and hanging ears.

The coat is long and flowing, fairly straight with waves, and mixes thicker silky hairs with softer ones in about equal parts. It should not be harsh, woolly or cottony. It does not shed. Every color is allowed. Common ones include sable, silver, cream, white, parti-color, chocolate and red-gold; brindle is less common. Colors can change over a dog’s life, and many puppies born dark fade to cream or silver.

In the lion cut the rear, the hind legs except for the hocks, the front legs except for bracelets on the forearm, and the part of the tail nearest the body are shaved. The rest is left natural.

Temperament

The Löwchen is friendly, happy, active and playful, and very intelligent. It makes a good house pet and suits families with children. It needs human company and is unhappy when left alone for long periods. Some are vocal when excited or when they want something; others are quiet.

Care and health

A 2024 UK study found a life expectancy of 13.9 years. Dogs in a lion clip may need some protection for the shaved areas in winter.

Facts on this page were checked against Wikipedia and may have changed since.