Löwchen — breed guide
The "little lion dog", clipped to look like one since at least the 1400s. Once listed as the rarest breed in the world.
At a glance
- Group
- non-sporting
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 4–8 kg (9–18 lb)
- Life span
- 13–15 years
- Coat
- Long, dense, wavy coat, traditionally clipped in a lion trim
Living with a Löwchen
- Moderate energy — a proper walk every day.
- Heavy grooming — frequent brushing and regular trims.
- Barely sheds.
- Quick to learn.
- Vocal when there is a reason.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Typically lives happily with a cat.
- Suits apartment living, given its daily walks.
- A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
- Average heat tolerance.
- Feels the cold.
Temperament
Lively · Bright · Affectionate · Confident
Health to watch
- Patellar luxation
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Hip dysplasia
- Cataracts
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a Löwchen good with kids?
Generally yes. Löwchens are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Löwchen good with cats?
Usually yes. Löwchens typically settle well with a resident cat — introduce them slowly and give the cat a high perch and a way out of the room.
How much exercise does a Löwchen need?
A real walk every day, around 30–60 minutes.
Can a Löwchen handle hot weather?
About average — use normal hot-day sense.
Leash Life keeps a Löwchen's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.