Little Pawz -- Lowchen -- Petit Chien Lion -- Little Lion Dog -- Small Dogs -- Small Dog Breed Information -- Toy Dogs -- Miniature Dogs -- Dog Breeds

The Lowchen is a member of the Bichon family, sharing with the imperial Pekingese the title of little lion dog. It is called this because of the practice of clipping it in the traditional poodle exhibition cut, the lion clip, which, complete with mane and tufted tail, gives it the appearance of a lion in miniature. The Lowchen is an affectionate, happy, healthy little dog, known in Europe for several centuries.

Size
Height: 10 – 13 inches (25 – 33 cm) at the withers
Weight: 4 – 9 lbs. (1.8 – 4.1 kg)

Coat and Colour
Fairly long and wavy but not curly. Fine and silky. Clipped in the traditional lion clip. Any colour or combination of colours permissible.

Exercise
The Lowchen adapts well to city or country life, although presented more suitably for decoration than for sporting activity. It will enjoy regular walks in the park, or a run in the countryside. This is an exotic breed that is usually well looked after and coddled by its owners.

Grooming
Clipping is best left to the experts, and, in between clippings, a daily brushing will keep your Lowchen looking its best.

Feeding
Recommended would be 1/3 – 1/2 can (13.3 oz 376 g size) name-brand dog food with a biscuit, or 1 1/2 cups of a dry dog food. Always provide an ample supply of fresh water for your Lowchen.

Origin and History
The Lowchen is thought to be a French dog. It is registered with the FCI as of native origin, under the title petit chien lion. Certainly it was known in both France and Spain from the late 1500's and is thought to have been favoured by the beautiful Duchess of Alba. A dog resembling the Lowchen appears in a portrait of the lady painted by the Spanish artist, Francisco Goya (1746 – 1828). Probably the breed evolved in the Mediterranean area about the same time as the Maltese, the Bichon Frise and the Bolognese.

The Lowchen is now a frequent contender in the show ring in many countries, but it has yet to become popular as a pet.