ALLEMAND
ESPAGNOL
FRANÇAIS
ITALIEN
NÉERLANDAIS
PORTUGAISLittle lion dog
Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog little lion dog!
Here, you will find all the useful information about little lion dog. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.
Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.
Overall description of the breed
The origins of the Little Lion Dog give rise to numerous controversies and have been the subject of an ongoing debate between France and Germany for decades. Also known as the Löwchen, this charming canine left its mark in France as early as the 15th century, evidenced by the engraved depictions on the walls of the Amiens Cathedral, as well as various tapestries and paintings dating back several centuries.
Two theories clash regarding its origins. Some suggest a connection to Northern European dogs, establishing links to the Toy Poodle, while others argue that it stems from crossbreeding based on the Bichon breed, renowned for its abundant presence in the south of France and Spain. The first specimens were exported to the United States by the Germans, hence the more widespread use of the term Löwchen among Anglo-Saxons.
In 1947, the first club exclusively dedicated to this breed was founded in France. Its official recognition was eventually confirmed by the FCI on October 30, 1961, and its current standard was published on March 23, 2004.
Endowed with a rustic and compact appearance, the Petit Chien Lion belongs to the category of small dogs. Its balanced and harmonious demeanor, along with its slender structure, make it a dog as lively as it is attentive to its environment. Its body forms a square, with a height equivalent to its length. Its delicate bone structure harmonizes with an elegant chest depth, moderately broad shoulders, well-arched ribs, and a straight backline.
Its coat, soft and shiny, is slightly wavy and lacks an undercoat. All colors are accepted in accordance with breed standards. Its features include a compact head with a short muzzle and a discreetly marked stop. The tail, attached low on the back, elegantly falls backward over the back.
Beyond its physical traits, the Little Lion Dog shines through its cheerful and affectionate temperament. Closely bonded with its family, it consistently seeks the affection and attention of its loved ones. It takes pleasure in sharing playful moments and strolls with its owners, even though it's not a highly athletic dog. Nevertheless, a minimum amount of exercise is essential for its well-being.
Possessing a pronounced protective instinct, it may not confront danger directly due to its size, but it excels in the role of an alert launcher. Naturally sociable, it shows its amiable side in social settings, although its strong attachment can occasionally make it headstrong. To mitigate this trait, early socialization with fellow dogs is recommended.
Easy to train, this obedient dog suits both novices and experienced owners. Its gentle and endearing nature makes it a beloved companion for all family members, providing a source of affection for both young and old.
In adulthood, the weight of the Little Lion Dog ranges between 4 and 8 kg (9 to 17.5 lb), and its height at the withers is between 28 and 35 cm (11" to 13.5").
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Origins
The Little Lion Dog, also known as Löwchen, is an ancient breed originating from Europe, particularly from France and Germany. Its origins date back to the Middle Ages, where it was prized by nobility for its small size and elegant appearance. Represented in many Renaissance artworks, this dog was often groomed to resemble a lion, hence its name. Valued for its beauty and affectionate nature, the Little Lion Dog has always been a loyal companion and a symbol of high social status.
History
The history of the Little Lion Dog is rich and ancient, dating back to the Middle Ages. Originating from Europe, it was particularly prized by the French and German nobility. Represented in paintings and sculptures, it was often groomed to resemble a lion. In the 19th century, the breed was on the brink of extinction, but thanks to passionate breeders, it was saved and reintroduced. In 1961, the Little Lion Dog was recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), solidifying its place among the most distinctive and adorable companion dog breeds.
Standard
The Petit Chien Lion breed standard describes a small, elegant and well-proportioned dog. Males and females measure between 25 and 33 cm at the withers and weigh between 4 and 8 kg. Their head is short with a wide, flat skull. The eyes are large, round and dark, expressing liveliness and gentleness. The ears are long and hanging, covered with fringes. The body is compact with a well-developed chest. The tail is carried high and curved over the back. The coat is long, wavy and silky, often cut in a lion shape, leaving a distinctive mane.
Physical characteristics
The Petit Chien Lion is a small dog, measuring between 25 and 33 cm at the withers and weighing between 4 and 8 kg. It has a long, wavy and silky coat, usually cut in the shape of a lion with a mane around the neck and shorter hair on the body. Coat colors vary, including white, black, lemon and fawn. The head is short with large and expressive eyes, often dark. The ears are long and hanging, covered with fringes. The body is compact and well-proportioned, with a tail carried high and curled over the back.
Character
The Little Lion Dog is known for its cheerful, affectionate and sociable character. It is an intelligent and curious dog, who loves to be the center of attention. It is very attached to its family and loves to participate in all family activities. Its friendly and playful temperament makes it an excellent companion for children and other pets. Despite its small size, it is brave and can be protective towards its loved ones. Easy to train due to its intelligence, the Little Lion Dog is also an excellent guard dog, although it is not aggressive.
Life expectancy
The Petit Chien Lion has an average life expectancy of 12 to 14 years, although some individuals can live longer with proper care. To ensure a long and healthy life, it is essential to provide balanced nutrition, regular veterinary care, and a safe environment. Preventing diseases and paying special attention to common health problems in this breed, such as respiratory conditions and eye issues, are crucial. By taking care of their overall well-being, owners can help their Petit Chien Lion live a long and happy life.
Exercise and activity needs
The Petit Chien Lion is an active breed that requires daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. Although it doesn't need long walks, it enjoys regular outings and play sessions. Around 30 minutes to an hour of physical activity per day, combined with interactive games and stimulating toys, are sufficient to meet its needs. Due to its small size, it can also exercise indoors. Mental activities, such as puzzle games and obedience training, are also beneficial for the Petit Chien Lion.
Recommended diet
The Petit Chien Lion requires a high-quality diet suitable for its size and activity level. A balanced diet, rich in proteins and essential nutrients, is crucial for maintaining its health. Monthly costs for feeding a Petit Chien Lion typically range from 20 to 40 euros, depending on the quality of the chosen food. Monitoring portions to avoid obesity is important, as this dog tends to gain weight easily. Regular consultations with a veterinarian to adjust the diet according to the dog's specific needs are recommended.
Training and obedience
The Petit Chien Lion is intelligent and responsive to training, making it an easy student to train. However, it can sometimes be stubborn, requiring firm yet gentle guidance. Positive reinforcement, with rewards such as treats and praise, works well to motivate this dog. Early socialization is essential to prevent shyness or aggressive behaviors towards strangers and other animals. Training sessions should be short and varied to maintain its interest. With patience and consistency, the Petit Chien Lion can become a well-behaved and obedient companion.
Behavior with children
The Little Lion Dog is generally good with children, thanks to its affectionate and patient temperament. They are playful and love to participate in family activities. However, due to their small size, it is important to supervise interactions with young children to avoid accidents. Children should learn to handle this dog gently and respectfully. With proper training and socialization, the Little Lion Dog can become an excellent companion for families, bringing much joy and entertainment.
Compatibility with Other Animals
The Petit Chien Lion can harmoniously cohabit with other pets if properly socialized from a young age. With its sociable and affectionate nature, it generally gets along well with other dogs and even cats. However, it may sometimes display dominant behavior, especially with larger animals. Gradual introduction and initial supervision are recommended to ensure harmonious cohabitation. Adequate socialization and proper training can help reduce tension and promote good relationships with other animals.
Grooming needs
The Lowchen dog requires regular grooming to maintain its coat in good health and prevent knots. Weekly brushing is necessary to untangle long and thick hair and remove dead hairs. Baths can be given monthly or as needed to keep the coat clean. It is important to clean the ears regularly to prevent infections and check the eyes to prevent irritations. The claws should be trimmed regularly and the teeth brushed at least once a week to prevent dental problems.
Health
The Petit Chien Lion is generally a robust and healthy breed, but can be subject to certain health conditions. Common health problems include dental issues, eye conditions such as cataracts and corneal ulcers, as well as luxating patellas. Regular veterinary care, a balanced diet, and appropriate exercise are essential for maintaining their health. It is crucial to choose a reputable breeder who conducts health tests on their dogs to minimize the risk of hereditary diseases. With proper care, the Petit Chien Lion can lead a long and healthy life.
Average price
The price of a Petit Chien Lion puppy generally ranges from 1000 to 2000 euros, depending on the lineage, breeder reputation, and specific characteristics of the puppy. Puppies from champion lines or reputable breeders may cost more. It is crucial to ensure that the breeder complies with ethical standards and provides necessary documents, including health tests for the parents. Initial costs often include vaccination, deworming, and sometimes microchipping. Prospective owners should be prepared to invest in a healthy and well-socialized puppy.
Expenses
Annual expenses for a Petit Chien Lion can vary, but are generally between 600 and 1200 euros (700 to 1400 dollars). This includes high-quality food, regular veterinary care, grooming costs, accessories such as toys and walking equipment. Veterinary costs may increase in case of illness or injuries. It is also advisable to budget for training classes, especially during the first year. Pet insurance may also be an expense to consider to cover unexpected costs.
Name ideas
Choosing a name for a Small Lion Dog can be fun. A name like "Leo" evokes the lion, reflecting its distinctive appearance. "Fleur" means sweetness and beauty, perfect for a delicate female. "Max" is a classic name suggesting greatness. "Ruby" recalls a precious stone, symbolizing its value. "Gaston" is a nod to its French origins. "Luna" means moon, for a dreamy dog. "Oscar" is noble and distinguished. "Bella" for an elegant beauty. "Rex" means king, reflecting its noble nature. "Milo" is a sweet and affectionate name.
Legislation and regulation
The Petit Chien Lion is not classified as a dangerous breed and is therefore not subject to any specific strict regulations. However, owners must comply with local laws regarding dog ownership. This includes registering the animal, mandatory vaccination, and microchip identification. In France, for example, it is mandatory to keep dogs on a leash in public spaces and to pick up their waste. Owners must also ensure that their dog does not cause any nuisance to the community.
Official recognition
The Petit Chien Lion is recognized by several cynological organizations around the world. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) has recognized the breed and includes it in Group 9 of companion and toy dogs. In France, it is registered with the Société Centrale Canine (SCC). In the United States, the breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). These recognitions allow dogs of this breed to participate in dog shows and benefit from the health and welfare standards defined by these organizations.
Pedigrees
Pedigrees for Petit Chien Lion are available from various recognized breed clubs. In France, the Club du Petit Chien Lion is the main organization. In the United States, the American Kennel Club (AKC) also registers pedigrees for this breed. In the UK, the Löwchen Club is responsible for pedigrees. These clubs provide information on breeding, health, and care of the breed, and organize events and shows. They are also a valuable resource for breeders and owners of Petit Chien Lion, ensuring that dogs meet the breed standards.
Destination and usage
The Petit Chien Lion is mainly used as a companion dog because of its affectionate temperament and sociable nature. Although small, it is courageous and can sometimes show guardian instincts, alerting its owners to any perceived danger. Due to its small size and easy-to-maintain coat, it is well suited to apartment living. It is also appreciated for its ability to get along with children and other animals, making it an excellent addition to a family. Its presence brings comfort and joy to its owners.
Prohibitions
The Petit Chien Lion is not subject to any specific restrictions in most countries. However, it is essential to respect local laws regarding dog ownership. Some regions may have specific regulations regarding dog breeds in general, such as the obligation to keep them on a leash in public places or to register them with local authorities. In general, there are no known countries that specifically prohibit the Petit Chien Lion, but it is always advisable to check local regulations to ensure legal compliance and good cohabitation with the community.
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