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Lowchen

Lowchen is a small toy breed from France also known as Little Lion Dog, Petit Chien Lion.

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Breed overview

Lowchen is a small toy breed from France also known as Little Lion Dog, Petit Chien Lion.

Once listed as the world's rarest dog breed in the Guinness Book of World Records in the 1970s, with only 65 registered dogs worldwide. The breed dates back to Renaissance Europe and appears in paintings by Goya and other masters.

People looking into Lowchen usually prepare for Moderate exercise needs, High grooming needs, 9–18 lbs • 12–14 in.

Little Lion DogPetit Chien Lion

History and origin

Lowchen is tied to originating from France, specifically French court, with sources often placing its development around 1400 CE.

Lowchen is described here as placed in the toy group and marked as an established breed.

Once listed as the world's rarest dog breed in the Guinness Book of World Records in the 1970s, with only 65 registered dogs worldwide. The breed dates back to Renaissance Europe and appears in paintings by Goya and other masters.

Browse dog breeds from France Browse more toy breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
toy
Size
Small
Origin country
France
Region
French court
Origin year
1400 CE
Weight
9–18 lbs
Height
12–14 in
Lifespan
13–15 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
3 / 5
Trainability
4 / 5
Good with children
4 / 5
Shedding level
2 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
Moderate exercise needsHigh grooming needsChildren score: 4/5Trainability: 4/5

Coat and classification

Lowchen is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

LongWavySilky

Lowchen is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Small, compact toy breed with square proportions
  • Long, flowing coat in various colors
  • Traditionally groomed in distinctive 'lion' clip
  • Alert, friendly expression with large, round eyes

What this breed is known for

  • Once listed as the world's rarest dog breed in the Guinness Book of World Records in the 1970s, with only 65 registered dogs worldwide. The breed dates back to Renaissance Europe and appears in paintings by Goya and other masters.
  • Traditionally groomed in a 'lion clip' with the hindquarters shaved to resemble a lion's mane and body. This distinctive grooming style has been maintained for over 500 years and is required for dog shows.
  • Nearly extinct after World War II until Madame Bennert of Brussels spent her fortune rebuilding the breed. She traveled across Europe collecting every Lowchen she could find, and most modern Lowchens descend from her efforts.

Health and care notes

Lowchen is noted here for Moderate exercise needs and High grooming needs.

  • Luxating Patella
  • Eye Conditions
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Heart Conditions

Coat details: Long, Wavy, Silky

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Lowchen come from?

Lowchen is closely associated with France, especially French court in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Lowchen get?

Typical size details for Lowchen on this page are 9–18 lbs, 12–14 in, 13–15 years.

What is the Lowchen known for?

Once listed as the world's rarest dog breed in the Guinness Book of World Records in the 1970s, with only 65 registered dogs worldwide. The breed dates back to Renaissance Europe and appears in paintings by Goya and other masters.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Lowchen reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.