Löwchen

Also called Little Lion Dog, Petit Chien Lion, Lowchen

Recognised breedFCI group 9Short profile

From France (country of origin per FCI); the type has been known across Europe since at least the 16th century, and the German name means 'little lion'.1 2

At a glance the quick version

Weight, male5.4 to 8.1 kg3 2

Weight, female4.5 to 6.8 kg3 2

Height, male26 to 35.6 cm3 2

Height, female26 to 33 cm3 2

Lifespan14 to 18 years2

Sizesmall

The FCI standard gives about 6 kg for the breed; the ranges come from Wikipedia.

affectionate and people-focused

lively and playful

bright and receptive to training

3 2 4

Coat and looks how to spot one

long, silky, wavy single coat

A small, compact bichon-type dog with a long, wavy, silky coat that has no undercoat. For the show ring it wears the traditional lion clip: the hindquarters are clipped short while the mane, leg cuffs and tail plume are left natural.3 2 4

Coloursall colours and combinations allowedsablesilvercreamwhiteparti-colourIrish piedchocolatered/gold3 2

Personality what they are like

A cheerful, loving little companion that bonds closely with its family. It is playful and clever, adapts easily to new situations, and can settle down calmly when asked. Good with children and happiest with company around.3 2 4

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Moderate: up to about an hour of exercise a day.4

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Needs brushing more than once a week to keep the long coat free of tangles. The lion clip is traditional and required for showing; pet dogs are often kept in an easier trim.4 3

Home where they are happiest

Fits well in a town flat or a country home; a small to medium garden is plenty.4

Company who they like around

Very people-oriented and prefers not to be left alone for long stretches.2

The story where it all began

Little lion-clipped dogs appear in European church carvings from the 13th century and in tapestries and paintings from the following centuries. The French breed club was set up in 1947, and the FCI accepted the breed in 1961. Numbers were once so low that it was counted among the rarest breeds in the world.3 1 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Its German name, Löwchen, simply means 'little lion'.2
2
In 1973 only 65 registered Löwchen were known, and it was once called the rarest dog in the world.2
3
The breed was described by the famous naturalists Buffon and Linnaeus.3
4
Many Löwchen change colour as they grow up.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name is German for 'little lion', reflecting its traditional lion clip and brave demeanor.5

Name ideas for your new friend

LionceauBijouFrisettePomponCâlinLuluRoiMignonFloconCoquinPetitChéri

A day in the life told by a Löwchen

Bonjour! I woke up to sunshine and a gentle pat on my head. I stretched my little lion mane and gave a happy yip. After breakfast, I played fetch with my favorite squeaky ball in the garden, then curled up on the sofa for a nap in a sunbeam. Later, my human took me for a walk in the park, where I wagged my tail at every friendly face. Back home, I helped with cuddles while they read. Now I'm snoozing in my bed, dreaming of tomorrow's adventures. Life is good when you're a little lion!

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI: Standard no. 233, Group 9 (Companion and Toy Dogs), Section 1 Bichons and related breeds; recognised definitively on 30 October 1961; current standard 24 March 2004.1
The Royal Kennel Club: Toy Group; recognised in 1971.4
AKC: Non-Sporting Group; Miscellaneous Class 1996, fully recognised 1999.2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Löwchen. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery 2 days
Bathevery month
HaircutTrim feathering and feet, or keep a short cutevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
Eye wipeGently wipe around the eyesevery day
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Löwchen tip

Löwchens are prone to weight gain, so keep treats to no more than 10% of daily calories and opt for low-calorie options. Because allergies can cause skin or tummy troubles, choose single-ingredient or hypoallergenic treats and ask your vet if you notice any reactions.

Source: petmd.com

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Löwchen, and at what times?

Feed your adult Löwchen at least two meals a day, ideally at the same times each morning and evening. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. Follow the food label and your vet for exact amounts.6

What should a Löwchen eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a complete, balanced dog food suitable for a small breed. Avoid dangerous foods such as chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol. Always check with your vet for the best diet.7

How often should I bathe a Löwchen?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every four weeks. In general, bathe at least every three months, or more often if your Löwchen gets dirty. Use a gentle dog shampoo.8 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Löwchen need brushing?

Brush your Löwchen at least twice a week, but daily is ideal to prevent tangles in its long, silky coat. Furry Diary's plan suggests brushing every two days.4 3 8 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Löwchen's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every three weeks or when you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, avoiding the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or groomer.8 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Löwchen need?

Your Löwchen needs about an hour of exercise daily, including walks and playtime. It adapts well to apartment living with a small garden.4 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Löwchen's teeth and ears?

Brush your Löwchen's teeth daily with dog toothpaste, and check ears weekly for moisture or dirt. Gently wipe the outer ear; never insert anything into the ear canal.8 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Löwchen live?

A Löwchen typically lives 14 to 18 years, bringing you many happy years of companionship.2

Is a Löwchen good with children and other pets?

Yes, the Löwchen is good with children and other pets when properly socialized. It is a cheerful, loving companion that bonds closely with its family.3 2 4

Can a Löwchen be left alone?

Löwchens are very people-oriented and prefer not to be left alone for long periods. They are happiest with company around. If you must leave them, provide toys and consider a pet sitter.2

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.