Lowchen Breed Guide

Dec 03, 2024

Meet the Löwchen, also known as the “Little Lion Dog,” a small but mighty companion with a personality that’s larger than life. Their name comes from their distinctive lion-like clip—though instead of prowling the savannah, they’re more likely to be found proudly prancing through your living room.

Don’t let their regal appearance fool you. Löwchens are playful, affectionate, and full of energy, making them the perfect family companion. They love being the centre of attention and will happily charm every visitor who crosses the threshold. Despite their small stature, Löwchens have the courage of a much larger dog, which is why they’ve earned their nickname. If you’re looking for a little dog with a big heart (and plenty of hair), this could be your new best friend.

THE BASICS:

Category: Toy Dog
Size: Small (4-8 kg)
Exercise Needs: 30-60 minutes per day
Grooming: High
Coat: Long, flowing, and silky
Shedding: Low
Health Issues: Patellar luxation, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Home Needs: Comfortable indoor living, a bit of space to play, and a family that loves pampering their pint-sized lion
Sociability: Friendly, outgoing, and excellent with children and other pets

HISTORY: A ROYAL FAVOURITE WITH ANCIENT ROOTS

The Löwchen may be small, but their history is anything but. With roots dating back to at least the 15th century, these dogs were once favourites of European nobility. Their distinctive “lion clip” was not only fashionable, but practical, as it kept their hindquarters free for warmth in cooler climates while showing off their majestic coat at the front.

While they’ve long been associated with royalty and luxury, Löwchens were also beloved for their friendly and loyal nature, making them excellent companions for those lucky enough to have one. Despite their status as a symbol of wealth, these little lions were never snobbish—they’ve always been known for their affection and loyalty to their families.

Interestingly, the breed almost disappeared after World War II, becoming one of the rarest dog breeds in the world. Thanks to dedicated breeders, however, the Löwchen has made a comeback and remains a beloved companion dog today, particularly in the UK and Europe.

LÖWCHEN PERSONALITY: FULL OF LIFE, LOVE, AND LION-HEARTED BRAVERY

If you’re looking for a dog that’s as brave as they are affectionate, the Löwchen is your perfect match. These dogs are known for their outgoing, friendly nature and their endless enthusiasm for life. Whether they’re playing with children, cuddling up on the sofa, or showing off their fabulous lion trim, Löwchens are always eager to be part of the family action.

Despite their small size, Löwchens have a confident and sometimes fearless attitude. They’re not easily intimidated by bigger dogs or new situations, and their natural curiosity makes them quick to explore their surroundings. But don’t worry—they’re also highly adaptable, making them just as happy in an apartment as they would be in a larger home with a garden.

These dogs love human interaction and will quickly become your shadow, following you from room to room with their wagging tail and bright eyes. They’re excellent with children, friendly with strangers, and tend to get along well with other pets, which makes them ideal for families of all shapes and sizes.

HOW MUCH EXERCISE DOES A LÖWCHEN NEED?

Löwchens may be small, but they’re full of energy and enthusiasm. A daily walk of around 30-60 minutes will keep them fit and happy. They also love a good play session—whether it’s chasing a ball around the garden or showing off their latest trick for some treats. Don’t let their size fool you; they’re capable of keeping up with the family during walks and outdoor activities.

Although they enjoy exercise, Löwchens aren’t overly demanding. They’re just as happy to spend time indoors cuddling or playing games that stimulate their sharp minds. Mental exercise is just as important as physical activity for these little lions, so puzzle toys and interactive games are great for keeping them entertained.

As long as they get their daily dose of activity and mental stimulation, Löwchens will settle down happily for some quality downtime with their favourite humans. And yes, they’ll definitely want to sit on your lap while you’re watching TV.

HOW TO GROOM A LÖWCHEN: KEEPING THE LION LOOK

One look at a Löwchen, and you know their grooming routine isn’t for the faint-hearted. That beautiful, flowing coat needs regular attention to stay looking its best. Daily brushing is ideal to prevent tangles and matting, especially if you’re keeping them in the traditional lion clip. If the lion clip seems like too much maintenance, a regular puppy cut will do the trick—less fancy, but much easier to manage.

Professional grooming every few months is a must if you want to maintain their signature style. Löwchens are low shedders, which is a big plus for those with allergies, but that long, silky coat can still accumulate dust and dirt from their adventures.

Regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care are also important to keep your Löwchen in tip-top condition. Their small size means they can be prone to dental issues, so keeping up with teeth brushing and offering dental-friendly treats, like Scrumbles Gnashers Dental Dog Treats, can make a big difference.

HEALTH: SMALL BUT MIGHTY

Löwchens are generally a healthy and hardy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to a few health issues, and like many dogs can suffer from allergies and dental issues. Patellar luxation (a knee problem) is relatively common in small breeds, as are cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which can affect their vision. Regular check-ups and health screenings can help catch any potential problems early and feeding them a balanced diet like Scrumbles can support their overall wellbeing.

Despite these potential issues, Löwchens typically live long, healthy lives, with many enjoying 12-14 years of happiness. Keeping them active, providing regular vet care, and giving them plenty of love will ensure they stay healthy and by your side for years to come.

FUN FACTS ABOUT THE LÖWCHEN:

The Lion Look: Löwchens get their name from their traditional “lion clip,” where the rear end is shaved, and the front is left long, giving them their regal appearance.
Rare but Precious: In the 1960s, the Löwchen was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the rarest dog breed in the world. Thankfully, they’ve made a comeback!
Mighty Heart, Tiny Body: Don’t be fooled by their size—Löwchens are known for their bold, brave personalities. They’ll take on anything that comes their way (including much larger dogs, so keep an eye out).

LIVING WITH A LÖWCHEN: TINY BUT FULL OF CHARACTER

Living with a Löwchen is like having your own personal ray of sunshine in the house. They’re small but full of personality, and their loving, playful nature means there’s never a dull moment. Löwchens thrive on companionship and will quickly become the heart of the family, whether they’re playing with the kids, showing off their tricks, or simply cuddling up for a nap.

While they do require regular grooming, their minimal shedding make them a good choice for those who prefer a dog that doesn’t leave fur everywhere. Just be prepared for some dedicated brush time!

These little lions are adaptable and will fit right into any household, whether you live in a cosy flat or a larger home with a garden. As long as they get plenty of love and attention, the Löwchen will be a happy, well-rounded companion.

IS THE LÖWCHEN THE RIGHT DOG FOR YOU?

If you’re looking for a small dog with a big personality, the Löwchen might just be the perfect fit. They’re ideal for families, individuals, and even first-time dog owners who want a dog that’s affectionate, playful, and full of character. Just make sure you’re ready to commit to their grooming needs and give them plenty of love and attention.

With their loving nature, regal appearance, and playful attitude, the Löwchen is sure to bring joy and plenty of fun into your home.

Why Scrumbles is Perfect for the LÖWCHEN

Scrumbles is the ideal choice for Löwchen owners for several reasons:

High-Quality Ingredients:Löwchens may be small, but they’re full of energy and charm. To fuel their zest for life, Scrumbles uses only natural ingredients, avoiding artificial additives and fillers, so your Löwchen gets the nutrition they deserve.
Coat and Skin Health: The Löwchen’s signature lion-like coat deserves the royal treatment. Scrumbles recipes are enriched with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids to support healthy skin and a glossy coat, so their fur stays soft, shiny, and majestic. We've got just the thing to help: Scrumbles Salmon Dry Dog Food or Salmon Wet Food for optimal coat care.
Digestibility: All our recipes start with the gut, enriched with pre, post and probiotics, to help ensure easy digestion. Check out our Sensitive Stomach Dog Food for little ones with extra sensitive tums.
Sustainability: As a member of 1% for the Planet and certified B Corp we're committed to eco-friendly practices with recyclable packaging and responsible ingredient sourcing.
Trustworthy Nutrition: Don't just take our word, we're rated 4.5 on Trustpilot with over 5k five star reviews.

The Löwchen is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a little dog with a big personality. Their loving nature, adorable lion-like appearance, and brave heart make them stand out as fantastic family companions. Whether you’re looking for a playful partner, a loyal lapdog, or simply a small friend with plenty of character, the Löwchen is a delightful breed that’s sure to win over your heart—while also being easy on the fur clean-up!