The Breed

The Lowchen is a rare small breed of dog, which, in most countries of the World, belongs to the Toy Group. In the show-ring Lowchens have their long silky coat clipped off on the back half of their body and their legs, leaving a full "mane" and fringes of hair over all four feet and a plume of the tail - they look like a lion - which is where they got their name - Little Lion Dog! Lowchens generally grow to between 25-33cm. (10-13") high, and weigh approximately 5-8 kilos.

Originating in Europe, the Lowchen appears in art and literature dating from the 14th Century. With it's distinctive "lion" clip, the Lowchen is depicted in many paintings of the 16th and 17th Centuries at the feet of knights in armour, or beside ladies of the nobility. The legend is that, amongst the crusading knights of the middle ages, it was the custom for a knight who died in battle to be depicted in his armour with his foot on the body of a lion. if he died, but not in battle, then he was depicted with a Lion Dog at his feet. Similarly, the knights ladies were depicted with a Lion Dog on their tombs.

Lowchens love the attention they attract in the Show-ring, but they also make wonderful family pets. They are happy, outgoing and intelligent. Lowchens have great personalities and are real 'characters'. Although Lowchens are toy dogs, they are not delicate - they are often said to be a BIG dog in a little dogs body! Fearless and gentle, they make excellent housepets, and do not require a great deal of exercise, although a good romp in the garden is always appreciated.

Like all breeds, Lowchens require regular grooming. Many pet Lowchens are kept in a "puppy clip" which means they are not shaved, but maintained in a shorter coat all over their body. Lowchens do not shed their coats as much as many other breeds and this makes them a popular choice for people who suffer from allergies. Lowchens are robust little dogs with few health problems.

We at Jonquilow Lowchens are always happy to hear from anyone wanting more information on our Lowchen family - please feel free to contact us at:

Karen Quigley
Email: kquigley@tpg.com.au

Pat & John Jones - Email: patj@smartchat.net.au