Lowchen / The Little Lion Dog

Breed history:

 Like all the other Bichons, this one also has a Mediterranean origin. Mentions of this dog were found as far back as the 15th century. It has been a separate breed for more than 400 years. Its name comes from its characteristic haircut that makes it resemble a lion. It was quite famous, especially in Belgium.

Description:

 It is a small-sized dog, with a square look. The head is proportional to the body. The broad skull is equal in length to the muzzle and has a big, black nose. The eyes are big, round and dark. The ears are of medium length, drooping and well-covered with fur. The tail is of medium length and has a tuft of long hair at the tip, in the shape of a plume. The fur is made of rather long, slightly curly, thick and soft hair. It can have various colours, pure-coloured or spotted. The most frequent colours are white, black and cream.

Personality:

 It is an intelligent, lively, jolly, sensitive, sociable and friendly dog. Obedient and devoted to its master, playful and loving with children, it gets along well with other dogs and animals. It is cautious with strangers.

Grooming:

 This dog's fur must be combed and brushed regularly, not to get tangled and to remove dead hair, because it doesn't shed. These dogs are trimmed in a characteristic way, whether or not they are shown in exhibitions. For the traditional haircut, the back side of the body is shaved, same goes for the hind legs and part of the tail, keeping just a puff of fur at the tip of the tail and ankles.

Living conditions:

 It is a dog that feels good in a flat, with a loving family. It has a low level of activity, but it doesn't refuse once in a while a longer walk. It needs training.

Training:

 It is an intelligent, obedient dog that easily learns what is required of it and that is why it is easy to train.

Usefulness:

 It is a jolly and pleasant companion.