The little lion or lowchen dog is a small dog, very friendly and sociable with people. Curiously, the lion dog name comes from the breed's typical haircut, and not from any natural phenotypic characteristic. Although it is not known exactly where these dogs come from, the International Cynological Federation suggests that they are of French origin.
If you are thinking of adopting a small lion dog, you must find out about it and this breed sheet from PlanèteAnimal is made for you! Find out everything there is to know about the little lion dog and
good reading!
Origin
- Europe
- France
FCI Nomenclature
- Group IX
Physical Characteristics
- Muscular
Size
- Little
Height
- 15-35
Adult Weight
- 3-10
Life expectancy
- 12-14
Recommended physical activity
- Average
Character
- Active
- Affectionate
- Quiet
Ideal for
- Children
- Apartment
- House
Recommended climate
- Temperate
Hair type
- Long
- Big
Origin of the little lion dog
This is one of the oldest known dog breeds. We know that it has existed since the 16th century thanks to the paintings on which it appears. However, the origin of the breed is not known and although the FCI attributes it to France, other countries such as Germany and Russia also claim its nationality.
The population of these dogs decreased so much during World War II that it almost disappeared. Fortunately for the world cynophilia, two breeders fond of the little lion dog have taken it upon themselves to recover the breed thanks to a few specimens that they were able to protect in England.Although this seems to have had no effect on possible diseases, unfortunately the initial population was very small and the degree of inbreeding is very high in this breed.
Today, the little lion dog is a well-known pet in some European countries. Either way, the breed is not in danger of disappearing. On the contrary, it seems to be more and more popular.
Physical characteristics of the little lion dog
According to the FCI breed standard, its ideal height at the withers varies between 26 and 32 centimeters. His ideal weight, meanwhile, is around 6 kilograms.
This dog's body is small, sturdy for its size, its build is slender, and its profile is square. Its top line is straight, while the loin is deep and the belly well raised.
The head of the little lion dog is wide and relatively short, and its skull is quite small.The stop is moderately defined. Its nose is dark brown in brown dogs and black in all other dogs. His eyes are large, dark and round. Its ears are low set, moderately long and pendulous.
The lowchen's tail originates just below the line of the back and curves gracefully over the dog's back.
This dog's coat is single coat, silky, long, wavy and dense. In the typical cut for the breed, the hind region of the dog is shaved, including the hind legs, but a tuft is left at the tip of the tail and on the legs. All colors and color combinations are accepted in this breed.
Little lion dog character
Affectionate, relaxed and playful, small lion dogs are ideal pets. Although they are playful, they can also behave calmly and quietly. These dogs are very attached to their family and are usually especially attached to one person whom they follow most of the time.
These companion dogs are easy to socialize, but it will need to be started at an early age. Properly socialized, they generally get along very well with people, dogs and other animals. Of course, lowchens that have received poor socialization will either be shy or aggressive.
Among the most common behavior problems are excessive barking and the need to dig holes in the garden. Fortunately, these behaviors can often be prevented (or at least greatly reduced) by giving these dogs a good dose of physical exercise and mental stimulation.
Unfortunately, small lion dogs are also prone to separation anxiety. It's important to give them the company they need, but you also have to teach them to be alone.
Dogs of this breed can make great pets for individuals and families who have a lot of time to spend with them.Although these dogs get along well with children, it is better not to adopt one if you have a young child at home, because they are very fragile and they will end up hurting your child.
Caring for a little lion dog
The coat of the little lion dog tends to tangle easily, so it is necessary to brush it at least every other day. Show dogs should go to the groomer every month or two. Companion dogs can keep their coat full or have a cut that makes grooming easier. Lowchens are hypoallergenic dogs because they don't shed.
These dogs need daily play and exercise, but due to their small size, they don't need a lot of space for that. Even so, it is important that they take daily walks. It is also good that they have play time and are trained in dog obedience commands.
What's non-negotiable about these dogs is their demand for companionship and attention. They need to be accompanied most of the time and require frequent attention. If they have a garden, they can use it to play, as long as they are not alone, but they must sleep inside. They adapt very well to apartment living and densely populated cities.
Training the little lion dog
These dogs also respond very well to dog training without the need to appeal to the dog's dominance or forced submission. On the contrary, Lowchens respond exceptionally well to positive training and particularly well to clicker training.
He alth of the little lion dog
In general terms this is a he althy breed and no known diseases occur with a high incidence. However, patellar luxation being relatively frequent, preventive and/or curative measures recommended by the veterinarian must be taken.
Pictures of Little lion dog
