Lowchen

Dog Breed Profile

Lowchen History

The Lowchen is a German breed of small dog. The name is the German word for “little lion”. The FCI recognizes three varieties of the miniature schnauzer (Kleinspitz, Mittelspitz, and Kleinspitzhaar), as well as two varieties (Großspitz and Großspitzhaar) of the standard schnauzer. The Miniature Schnauzer is a medium-sized, hairy, wire-haired dog. The Miniature Schnauzer is one of the least known of the 17 schnauzer breeds. In 1889, the Adjutant General of the German Army was presented with a 7-month-old Schnauzer puppy. The adjutant general named his dog “Nipper”, after his previous pet dog, who had also died. “Nipper” soon became the official mascot of the 6th Royal Bavarian Regiment. The regiment adopted Nipper as their official mascot, and, when in 1890 they moved to Berlin, they presented him to Kaiser Wilhelm II. The emperor was impressed by Nipper, and made the 6th Royal Bavarian Regiment the 1st Guards (Royal) Fusilier Regiment. The adjutant general had named the 7-week-old puppy “Schwarz-Rot-Noriker”, after the black and tan (“Rot-Noriker”) color that the Schnauzer

Time of Origin

1500s

Country of Origin

France, Germany

Ancestry

Bichon Frise, Bolognese, Maltese, Havanese

Lowchen Physical Characteristics

The Lowchen is a small, short-haired breed of dog that is typically between 6 and 8 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 5 and 12 pounds. They have a round head, wide-set eyes, and upright ears. Their legs are long and their tail is curled. The coat of this breed is very short and smooth. The Lowchen is lively, playful, and affectionate.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Black, Brown

Coat Colors

Red, Sable, Black, White, Brown, Fawn, Silver, Brindle

Height Range

Male Height Range: 12 – 14 inches

Female Height Range: 12 – 14 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 8 – 18 lbs

Female Weight Range: 8 – 18 lbs

Lowchen Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

13-15 yrs

Lowchen Health Concerns

Patellar Luxation, Diabetes, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Cataracts, Hip Dysplasia, Patent Ductus Arteriosus

Lowchen Temperament and Behaviour

The Lowchen is a small, happy, playful, and outgoing breed of dog. They are an excellent companion to older children and adults, but are also get along well with younger children. They are generally gentle with strangers, but can be standoffish with strange cats and other small animals.

Lowchen Activity Requirements

The Lowchen is a small, friendly pooch that is known for its sweet disposition. Although they are not particularly high-energy, they do require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Lowchens don’t require a lot of exercise and can be happy with a short walk or a few play sessions throughout the day. They do need time outside, however, and will enjoy a romp in the yard or a run through the park. Regular exercise is also important for maintaining a healthy body weight. Since they are a small dog, it is important not to overfeed them. Be sure to feed your Lowchen a high-quality food, and be sure not to give them too many treats.