The L?wchen once had the dubious distinction, like the Portuguese Water Dog and the Havanese, of being the “rarest dog in the world”. Even today, the breed generally has fewer than a few hundred new registrations each year worldwide.
History: This breed is of European descent and originated in France during the 14th century. Known as the Little Lion, they were particularly favored by aristocracy. The breed shares roots with the bichon frise, Bolognese, Maltese, and Havanese. It was a popular dog in the 16th century and appears in German artwork – particularly that of painter Goya. In the 1960s, the breed’s numbers waned so much that it was given the record of “rarest breed” by the Guinness Book of World Records.
Appearance: It is a small, bright, and lively dog. Breed characteristics are a compact, balanced body; a relatively short, broad topskull and muzzle; and a proud, lively gait that accentuates the lion cut with a long flowing mane. The body of the Lwchen should be clipped in the hindquarters, the section of the tail closest to the body, and part of the front legs should be close-clipped. The eyes are set well into the skull, large, dark and round in shape, set well apart and forward looking. The lips are tight, with color the same as the nose. The bite is scissors and the teeth are rather large and well spaced with complete dentition. The Lowchen has a soft and silky coat texture. Their back end is sheared to the skin, and a tuft of hair is left on the end of the tail. All colours or combinations of colours are accepted. All patterns of white are found as well as Lowchen with no white at all. And to keep things interesting, most, but not all, Lowchen tend to change colors over the first few years fading and then darkening back up to a new shade!
Size: Height: 10-13 inches (25-33 cm)
Weight: 9-18 pounds (4-8 kg)
Temperament: Lowchen tend to be individuals. But they are smart and quickly figure out who is the alpha leader in the pack and try to ingratiate themselves in the next most senior position! The Lowchen is a cheerful, lively, affectionate dog. Sociable and intelligent, it is eager to learn. They are fearless, resourceful, and bold. They possess a gentle and sensitive nature, and firmly attach themselves to their family. This fearless dog will bark incessantly to protect its family and property. If not properly trained, it may dig and bark too much. Despite the small size, the Lowchen is a robust, even tough dog which can be strong-willed and arrogant. Males, in particular, are quite willing to challenge other large household dogs for leadership.
Health: This is a generally healthy breed, although some lines are prone to patellar luxation. Also watch for hip dysplasia, PRA.
Life expectancy: 13 – 15 years
Grooming: 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. The Lowchen is usually clipped in the hindquarters, the section of the tail closest to the body, and front leg areas are close-clipped, regardless of whether they are shown or not. This breed sheds little to no hair.
Puppy price: $900.00 - $1.600.00