Lowchen (Little Lion Dog)

Very affectionate and obedient with its masters, attentive and receptive, at ease in all circumstances; capable of being calm and discreet on command. His forthright and tender look tries to understand what is expected of him.

In the Amiens Cathedral, the construction of which dates back to the XIII° century, one can see, carved in stone, two Lowchen which perfectly represent the breed. In the XV° century its distinctive silhouette was often depicted in tapestries. The breed was cherished by the ladies of the court of Burgundy. It was especially in the 17th century that the breed was represented in old masterpieces. Buffon describes it very precisely in his ?Histoire Naturelle?, stressing its rarity. At the same period the Swedish naturalist, Linné also mentions it. The Lowchen was once called ?Bichon Little Lion Dog?. The French Breed Club was founded November 18th, 1947.

The Lowchen can receive ample exercise with a short walk or active game every day. He enjoys a mental challenge. He is not a breed that should live outside, although he appreciates access to a yard during the day. His coat needs brushing or combing about every other day. Clipping to maintain the traditional lion trim must be done every month or two. Many pet owners prefer to keep their dogs in a puppy clip.

This breed loves long walks, daily jogs, and hiking. They especially enjoy "off leash" time where they have the opportunity to run freely. They are suitable for apartment dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise and ample play sessions. A securely fenced yard is nice but is not essential to the Lowchen.

Grooming, socialization and training.

The classic leonine look of the Lowchen requires a professional grooming every four to six weeks. The unclipped hair must be combed daily to prevent tangles and mats. Bathing should be done on a weekly basis. It is important that sunscreen be applied to the shorn area to prevent sunburn. Lowchens are generally healthy, although they are prone to subluxated patellas, eye irritations caused by hair, and skin irritations on the shaved areas.

It is an intelligent, submissive dog and learns easily everything is reqired from it and that is why it is easy to train.

The fur of this dog must be combed and brushed regularly, for not getting tangled and to remove the dead hair bristles, because it doesn't shedd. These dogs are trimmed characteristic to the breed, no matter if they are shown in exhibitions or not. At the traditional haircut, the back side of the body is shaved, same as the posteriors legs and a part of the tail leavig just a puff of fur in tip of the tail and at ankles.

In order to salvage the breed, the Löwchens were closely inbred for a number of years. Despite this, the dog remains remarkably free of genetic flaws. Patellar luxation (dislocated knees) is an occasional problem. The eyes should be checked annually for t