A member of the Bichon family, the Löwchen (pronounced “lerv-chun”) has a German name but is believed to be of French ancestry. The nickname “Little Lion Dog” refers to the breed’s customary trimming of shaved hindquarters, plumed tail, and mane of hair covering its neck and shoulders. There are theories that the lady owners’ shaved rear ends kept them warm in bed since they were warm to the touch. Due to their lion-like look, which gave the breed its metaphorical strength, dogs were viewed as a source of protection for their owners.
Care as a Pet/ In Captivity
Due to their small size, löwchens are relatively easy to care for, but they require more exercise and grooming than you may think. To maintain their best appearance, they will require frequent brushing and trimming of their high-maintenance coat. Your löwchen will also need to exercise, but fortunately it will be simple for them to do so indoors or outside.
Exercise
Despite their diminutive size and desire for attention, löwchens are not merely lapdogs. They are a breed that is lively, inquisitive, and enthusiastic, therefore they will want some daily exercise as well as enough stimulation in the home to keep them mentally engaged. They are renowned for enjoying and succeeding at agility, and dog puzzles will stimulate their minds. They can certainly exercise indoors (as well as outdoors) if their home is large enough for quick games of catch or other physical activity.
Nutrition and Diet
Löwchens should be fed a high-quality, balanced, and sensible portion-controlled diet, just like all dogs. It’s simple to spoil your dog by giving them too many bad treats and leftovers from meals, or by just overfeeding them. One of the most prevalent health issues affecting dogs in the US is obesity, which has a number of other (more serious) consequences.
Grooming
Although they do not shed much, the löwchen’s long, single coat needs to be regularly groomed to avoid mats and tangles from forming. They will require routine cutting to keep their coat from getting untidy because it grows swiftly as well. They often undergo a straightforward puppy trim, but they can also have the breed-specific classic show-style Lion Clip. Depending on the nation you are in, this type of clip may differ, but it typically entails entirely shaving off the hair on the back.
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