Lowchen
Complete Breed Guide
"I'm your little lion!"
Quick Facts About Lowchens
Non Sporting
15–15 lbs
12–14"
Yes
Overview
Lowchens are little dogs with big personalities. These smart pups make great watchdogs, but they’ll probably lick a robber instead of fighting back. With their signature lion-like hairdo and loving spirit, the Lowchen is sure to catch your eye and your heart.
Lowchens are big dogs trapped in little bodies. They have larger-than-life personalities and love to spend time playing, watching out for intruders, and clowning around. The Lowchen is known for their signature mane, which many owners groom to look like a lion's. Their long, flowing locks make them attractive but high maintenance when it comes to grooming. On the other hand, their exercise needs are minimal. Lowchens adapt to their family’s activity levels and are happy with a walk or two each day. They enjoy being around people, but they need training and socialization to get along with kids or other animals.
Temperament and Behavior
Lowchens are intelligent, alert, affectionate, and outgoing. They have fun personalities and love to laugh and play. Lowchens make good watchdogs and will bark if they notice something out of the ordinary, but they’re more likely to befriend intruders than scare them away. These pups are smart and learn quickly, but they can be stubborn at times. Make sure to keep them entertained and change up their routine to avoid boredom.
Coat & Grooming
The Lowchen’s coat is made of long, soft hair that’s quite dense. They need a good brushing at least once a week to keep their long locks smooth and clean. Many owners groom their Lowchen’s coat into a lion’s mane, with long hair from the head to the ribs, a shaved rear end and tail, and poufs of hair around the ankle and at the tail tip. Whether you choose to go with this signature look or a more typical doggy ‘do, the Lowchen will be looking to you for plenty of grooming love.
Lifestyle & Living Conditions
Lowchens enjoy spending time outside, but they prefer to live indoors and be around people. They’re okay with kids and dogs, but they need training and socialization to learn how to act around them. Although they’re small, these dogs think they’re quite big and won’t back down from a challenge, even if it’s a child who unknowingly puts them on guard.
Exercise & Activity
The Lowchen doesn’t need much exercise to stay content and in shape. They enjoy a walk or two each day (especially if it’s followed by petting and a big hug), but they aren’t drawn to strenuous exercise or sports. If you can’t make time for a daily outing, make sure your Lowchen has a yard to stretch and play.
Characteristics at-a-glance
Ratings are on a scale of 1–10, based on breed standards and typical temperament.
Lowchen FAQs
Common questions about the Lowchen breed, answered by our editorial team.
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