Lowchen
A relative of other small breeds such as the Maltese and the Bichon Frise, the Lowchen or "Little Lion Dog", is an ancient breed that was popular throughout the middle ages with the nobility. In fact, in the 1500's, the German artist Albrecht Durer featured the Lowchen in many of his woodcuts and paintings. The breed almost disappeared during WWII, but a Belgian woman gathered as many Lowchen as she could find and was determined to keep the breed alive. Thanks to her, the breed has gained recognition and popularity both in Europe and in North America. They make excellent pets for those with limited space and physical ability.
Height: Height varies in different regions as follows:
Europe, UK, Australia, NZ and FCI countries: 10-13" (25-33 cm)
North America: 12-14" (30-35 cm)
Weight: Height varies according to size, from 9 lbs (4 kg) for the smaller ones, to 18 lbs (8 kg) for the larger ones.
Coat Type: The coat of the Lowchen is relatively long and wavy, but not too curly. The most popular colors are white, black and lemon, although all colors are permissible. Clipping is required to maintain the "lion-look" and the tail is left with a plume at the tip. The coat required a good deal of maintenance.
Temperament: The breed is intelligent, lively, and affectionate, never aggressive.
Special Interest: Although the Lowchen is clipped like the Poodle, it maintains the lion-like look because the remaining fur is left shaggy and natural, and is not trimmed or clipped at all.
Classifications:
AKC: Group 6 - Non-Sporting Dogs
CKC: Group 6 - Non-Sporting Dogs
KC: Non-Sporting - Toys
FCI: Group 9
ANKC: Group 1 - Toy
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