1. Introduction

Like any other dog breed, Lowchen is more than just a precious baby! This affectionate, attractive animal makes a perfect member of the family. Lively and spirited, these little dogs have a lot of energy and enjoy life. First and foremost, Lowchen dogs are companions! They seem to have only one real goal in life – to be a full-time best friend and shadow to their human family. These dogs were once the companions of royalty and aristocrats, and to this day they still have that little diva style. Do you need a little love in your life? Meet a Lowchen!

One of the most unique things about these pups is their hairstyle. Their coat is left long and flowing on the legs, chest, and rump but kept very short on the rest of the body. You will find these dogs in the colors black and brown. In terms of size, Lowchen dogs are tiny and usually weigh between 8 and 18 pounds, with a height of about 10-13 inches tall. Lowchen dogs are relatively small and perhaps more suitable for calm-natured children who can handle them properly. These adorable pups can be prone to jumping from excitement; therefore, appropriate care should be taken when paired with children of lesser age or who may be too boisterous for these gentle dogs.

2. History of the Lowchen Breed

The Löwchen breed may date back to a time between 1440 and 1600 and came to be known variously as the 'Little Lion-hound' or 'Little Lion Dog,' named for the distinctive shave-back of the adult clip. Over the years, the breed was also known as Leeuwhundje, Toy Spaniel, Petit Chien Lion, Chien de Singe, German Spaniel, and Chien de Damy, among others. They were kept and bred primarily in Portugal, Spain, and later in Germany with breeds like the Bichon, the Maltese, and the Affenpinscher. The name 'Löwchen' appeared in scientific literature on the subject of pets as a separate breed at the turn of the 20th century.

Löwchen have been known throughout the world and are depicted in paintings and other art dating as far back as the 16th century. They were all the rage in the 16th century as they were small, lively, and were part of the high society of that time. The Löwchen featured in many early paintings, as can be seen in the various museums of Europe and other parts of the world. It is believed the Löwchen had an affinity for the ladies, and in the Victorian period, the breed was a favorite with a number of lady dog fanciers, including Marie Antoinette. The breed excelled as a companion, watchdog, and status symbol. This explains the nickname 'The Little Lion.' The Löwchen is one of the rarest of the toy breeds and has a very unique personality. These delightful little dogs are no longer confined to the laps of luxury or considered status symbols.

The breed that was the common ancestor of these breeds is believed to be the Bichon Tenerife. The Bichon is a small, cheerful dog with a distinctive hairstyle. It was widely distributed throughout the Mediterranean region as a companion dog. Small shaggy dogs of this type were popular in Italy and Spain in the 16th century, and it is likely that the ancestors of the modern Bichon breeds share a common European lineage.

3. Physical Characteristics of Lowchen Dogs

LOWCHEN - APPEARANCE

The Lowchen, known as the Little Lion Dog for its distinctive coat, has a small and slightly longer than tall outline. The stylish little Lowchen has become a dog with a coat bedecked like a little lion, who, in its dash and spirit, embodies a comfortable and well-balanced demeanor, which is of prime importance. Its alert and intent expression comes into play with its characteristic lively action and strong composure. The neck is balanced to the body with an upright carriage. The shoulders are well laid back.

The coat of the Lowchen is the most distinctive and different from any other breed of dog. The allowed colors are any solid color, bi-colored, tri-colored, and any color that has white with a dark or light shade. Any color and any color combination will be acceptable. Regular grooming and brushing are needed for proper care. The coat and the fur around the eyes help prevent allergic reactions. The facial tension in the Lowchen is paramount. Although small, the eyes are wide, round, and convey a look of intelligent interest and good humor. A straight or convex nose is preferred. Roundness on top of the head extends from ear to ear with a desirable pentagon shape. Particularly in males, some roughness is acceptable. The mouth should be tight with the lips meeting all the way around the jaw. A wry mouth is highly undesirable.

A Lowchen must have the structural and animated qualities of a dog with a long-established identity. As a noble breed, they pride themselves on their proper posture, bold expression, and strong, healthy constitution. The profile of the Lowchen is a significant factor, as the dog’s appearance is accented from many angles and vantage points. The brightness of the eye framing the pentagon lends infinite expression. The stride produces a picture of muscles and elegance. Regal in repose, the play of light and shadow reveals a dog of proper proportion. A dog must be sound and display the mechanics of movement and expression. The breed is not prone to the “smushed face” dog problems. Vigor is apparent in the posture and attitudes. A Lowchen has the option of an undocked tail or a docked tail. This happens at birth or at a place found dorsal to a set of well-angulated hocks.

4. Temperament and Personality of Lowchen Dogs

Their temperament and personality are the defining characteristics of the Lowchen dogs. These dogs are not likely to make great hunters, and only occasionally will the breed show any great skills in guarding or herding. However, the Lowchen dog is, above all, a wonderful companion and family member. Their nature is extremely affectionate, and they seem to be especially loyal to their human family. Most of the dogs are also good with strangers, although some of them could be scared of newcomers. The Lowchen is a pretty small breed, but they are nothing but a lap dog. They love to be on the move and lead an active lifestyle. As they are a sociable breed, they can become pretty unhappy if left outside in the backyard or too often alone. Their personality certainly makes them a wonderful doggy companion. They are loving, loyal to their families, friendly with strangers, and great with kids. It certainly wasn't by accident that they got the nickname 'little lion.'

5. Unique Traits and Qualities of Lowchen Dogs

As the Lowchen dog is very intelligent, they learn well and love to please their owner. However, they are also a generally happy, carefree breed, and their playfulness might sometimes get the better of them in training. Make sure to start training while the dog is young, and always use positive reinforcement for the best results. It is generally an easy breed to keep well-behaved. They do, however, have an instinct for protecting their property and the people they love, and with proper training, will sound the alarm when strangers come calling. It is not at all uncommon for the breed to have the bark of a much bigger dog. Although it is easy to confuse size with temperament, it is not just the temperament that makes the Lowchen such a wonderful watchdog, but also the fact that they look much bigger than they really are. This breed, like many small dogs, has no idea about its own size. Instead, its little heart is that of a lion, lion-hearted. With their big heart, they are filled with a lot of joy and passion. Many people who own a Lowchen believe that they are indeed part lion because underneath that lush lion coat is a brave little dog. However, aggression from this breed is rare. A well-bred and happy Lowchen will shower its owner with love and affection.

Lowchen dogs, also called "Little Lion" dogs and "Toy Spaniels," are known for their unique physical appearance highlighted by a distinctive "lion-like" clip. Although they are a member of the Bichon family of dogs, the Lowchen is slightly longer than it is tall. These energetic dogs possess an overall friendly and joyful disposition that makes it clear they were bred for companionship. They love to be at your side! However, they are also said to inadvertently alert their owner of any strange activity in the house, making them a great utility dog to some degree. That being said, they are companion lap dogs through and through! The Lowchen, or Little Lion, dog breed is an ancient one: they are highly prized toys that were popular with noblewomen in both Spain and England in the 15th and 16th centuries. However, the breed is so ancient its earlier history is unknown.

Lowchen dogs’ combination of versatility, high energy, and readiness for companionship and loyalty make them a joy to be around. Their lively spirit is the perfect blend of affection and companionship. Just as you would expect from them, Lowchen dogs are known for being gentle with children, another trait that has helped to make them such a popular toy breed. They are also highly loyal and personable. Additionally, it can be truly hard to stay in a bad mood if you are spending time with this dog breed since they are known for smothering their loved ones in affection and adoration. In return, Lowchen dogs expect plenty of your attention! Like many intelligent breeds, Lowchen dogs thrive when they have a job to do. These little dogs love learning new things and will excel in training, so long as training is done via positive reinforcement-based methods that make it a fun and engaging experience for everyone involved. They are known for getting along well with other dogs.

6. Choosing a Lowchen Puppy: What to Look For

The process of choosing a Lowchen puppy is of utmost importance and holds great consequence. One should never buy a puppy from this breed (or any other) without having personally met and evaluated the puppy, its parents, and the breeder. A reputable breeder will have cared for the puppies, the dam, and made every effort to ensure the offspring attains the best health. Additionally, a breeder should have handled the puppies consistently to begin the socialization process. The breeder’s reasons for producing puppies should be clear and thorough to ensure that it is a responsible and ethical decision. Always consider the future of any dog purchased. Choosing a puppy is about more than selecting the most attractive or entertaining puppy in the pen. A pup’s health, temperament, and potential all hold great weight in the decision-making process. Given the fact that for many owners the aim is to find a pet first and foremost, the selection should be made based on types of temperament. This is the first piece of the puzzle, as meeting the parents and then the puppies can help predict many outcomes. It is a common mistake to expect large breeders and puppy mills to introduce prospective owners to the stud and/or dam prior to purchase. This is not possible in these scenarios, but sires and dams should always be on site and made available for viewing. All animals should be up to date on vaccinations and health examinations. This is essential for obvious reasons, and pet owners will often be required to bring their puppy to the clinic that the breeder has used after pick up. A Lowchen, like any other dog, should come with veterinary documentation, house training information such as feeding schedules, feeding guides, and amount fed. Additionally, the new pet should be dewormed, vaccinated, and microchipped. This part is especially important when placed into the hands of dedicated breeders and is key for travel requirements.

7. Bringing a Lowchen Puppy Home: Preparation and First Steps

Bringing a Löwchen puppy home involves important preparations for a smooth transition and a successful life as a new family member. Your new Löwchen puppy needs to feel welcome, but also to depend on you for care and guidance. First, here are some simple preparations to make before bringing home a Löwchen puppy. The puppy should have a nice, clean, designated bed to go to and rest in, sleeping through the night. A dog bed with edges for snuggling is a comfort for the puppy, as are dog blankets and towels that can be chewed and sucked on to comfort the puppy when away from the mother and littermates. The puppy needs several dog bowls for food and water. The most common types of bowls are stainless steel and ceramic dishes. Plastic dishes are questionable due to the increased potential for allergic reactions and skin and coat problems. Additionally, puppies can easily chew a plastic dish. An exercise pen can be used to limit the puppy's range in the house when not supervised, gradually increasing their time outside of the pen over time. Interactive toys with a treat or a piece of food inside are great for helping the puppy build confidence and learn new skills. In addition, new Löwchen puppy owners must take steps to prevent problems before they arise and to avoid taking steps in the wrong direction. Löwchen puppies, especially, benefit from clear communication and consistent routines. Keep your dog healthy while fostering the pet-owner bond that comes with establishing positive drives. The puppy you bring home already knows instinctively what family and group rules are—these are quite simply instincts and basic drives. Immediate training goes much smoother when you do not give the impression of making the laws. Do prioritize early training for the environment in which you plan to keep your new pet. This includes simple housetraining techniques. With the breeder's assistance and guidance, initial housetraining teaches the new owner how to communicate and handle his or her new pup. This means getting natural drives going your way. These techniques are geared toward the lowest common denominator in the family group. After one to two weeks, you should have established at least some communication with the puppy through a common language (trained commands)—some people take longer to establish proper communication than others. The major command is NO, given at the proper time with the correct tone and hand signal. The puppy should be getting the idea about where the main bathroom area is. A good breeder will help you during the most critical time to bond the puppy to its new master. Always remember, once the puppy feels safe in his or her new home, the chances of developing sound canine habits are increased. In addition, if you don't like the results of your program, start over by making a clear decision. Keep it respectful and clean, and be forceful once you make up your mind.

8. Feeding and Nutrition for Lowchen Dogs

Lowchen puppies require a highly nutritious diet to support their rapid growth and energy needs. As they mature, their diet can be changed to better support their activity and lifestyle. Adult Lowchen dogs need a hearty, balanced diet to maintain their overall health and activity levels. Proper nutrition is particularly important for maintaining the health of small breeds, such as Lowchens. Short, energetic bursts are common for Lowchen dogs, so a good-quality dog food that is formulated to support overall bone and joint health is important.

What to Feed Lowchen Puppies Before they reach 6 months old, all Lowchen puppies should be fed three times daily, and then fed twice a day until they are about a year old. A healthy puppy diet should consist of 25-30% high-quality protein and 15-20% fat. A puppy requires a high ratio of nutrients such as calcium and carbohydrates to support their growth. An adult Lowchen should consume a diet containing 18-25% protein. A Lowchen's diet could consist of fish, meat, or poultry protein. Vegetable and grain-free diets are also good for Lowchens, composed of foods like lentils, chickpeas, peas, potatoes, and sweet potatoes.

Feeding Information for Lowchen Adults Lowchen dogs should be fed two smaller meals a day. Puppies under the age of four months should be eating 5 to 6 meals a day to ensure they have enough nutrients and calories for growth. Avoid feeding your Lowchen adult too much and switch to a senior diet once they reach 7 years old. Free feeding and overfeeding should be avoided to keep Lowchen dogs from becoming overweight or obese. This might lead to health problems, which Lowchens are prone to. Always remember that your Lowchen's diet should consist of 25 to 30 percent protein, such as outputs from poultry, fish, or meat. Lean meats and fats such as chicken, turkey, and farmed fish should also be avoided. A good Lowchen diet with some grains, such as barley, rice, or potatoes, would also be beneficial. A healthier ratio of 18 to 25 percent fat is suggested. Avoid filling your Lowchen with allergenic foods such as egg, milk, soy, and wheat. Use plenty of fresh water for drinking and remember to include a number of treats, such as fruits and vegetables. No more than 10% of their total diet should include these treats.

Supplements for Lowchen Dogs A healthy Lowchen diet should be free from supplements. Avoid loading your Lowchen diet with nutrition and supplements that could trigger health issues. Ensure that all goods are provided by established pet feed producers, as such supplements might have damaging side effects. With all your dog's nutrition, make sure your vet has a prompt nutrition plan and is aware of any dental problems.

9. Exercise and Training Needs of Lowchen Dogs

Lowchen dogs require an active lifestyle and training program to keep them happy and healthy. The Lowchen exercise needs can be easily fulfilled with regular activities that are both fun and energizing for the dogs. At a minimum, a thirty-minute walk a day is needed for them. The walk can be several short walks or a couple of long walks, depending on the day and your schedule. They enjoy having playtime opportunities, so if walks are limited, you can combine the activity with a garage or basement dog play session. Dogs need both physical and mental stimulation in their activities. Including a training session regularly in a play session is a great way to stimulate your pet.

Training a Lowchen successfully is easy as these dogs are very sociable and respond well to positive reinforcement, including praise and food treats. Agreeable and eager-to-please Lowchens are often true masters of canine manipulation who have no inkling of the naughty acts they are capable of committing. Redirect the mischievous Lowchen to a more manageable behavior by immediately getting him interested in a toy, then allowing him some quality time with an owner or other family dog. Encourage owners to be patient. Though Lowchens are clever and usually take readily to training, they may become jaded by repetition and continue to behave as they please, not because they haven’t been taught better, but because they are too cunning to let on! Establish a routine consisting of exercise periods, mental stimulation, and training schedules. The Lowchen is not a readily adaptable dog and can become quite anxious if a routine is not in place. Once your pet realizes that you are now very relaxed and consistent with the habits, they will become settled as well. It is essential that a developing routine including various forms of physical and mental activities is put into place.

10. Grooming and Coat Care for Lowchen Dogs

Lowchen dogs sport an eye-catching coat, and taking care of their coat might require some effort. Care and maintenance of a Lowchen's coat should begin early and actively to ensure a well-groomed dog from an early age. Combing your Lowchen from puppyhood will help get them used to the experience. Combing is also a good opportunity to look for and address any skin, fur, or teeth issues immediately. When grooming your Lowchen puppy, brush their coat with a soft bristle brush to avoid hurting the developing skin. Full-grown Lowchen can benefit from a grooming table that is at a comfortable height for the caregiver. A soft-bristled brush is recommended. It is used to carefully comb the Lowchen's coat with a light sweeping motion. It's important to focus on the fur in areas that are prone to matting, such as behind the legs and ears, the armpits, and the tummy. Regular trimming is also recommended, as the eyes and ears can easily become obstructed by hair, which does not allow for clear vision or proper ventilation. The tail and feet can also grow excessive hair that should be trimmed regularly. It might be a good idea to take your Lowchen to a grooming specialist, as they are familiar with the breed and might have the proper training and equipment. The Lowchen's coat does not shed much, which might lead to the build-up of loose and dead hair. This can get matted, which pulls the skin underneath and ultimately restricts movement. To prevent matting, owners are recommended to have regular grooming sessions with their Lowchen. Their coat type can be prone to tangling and matting. This may occur quicker if the Lowchen does not receive regular brushing and coat care. The coat of Lowchen dogs might collect debris and dirt, which is more visible on lighter coats. If no bathing is done, it might begin to smell. The ears of the Lowchen should be checked and cleaned regularly. Use an ear cleaning solution and a cotton ball to carefully clean the ear. Resist the urge to use Q-tips, as these might push debris further into the ear. To prevent ear infections, the Lowchen owner can ask their veterinarian to check the ears regularly.

11. Common Health Issues in Lowchen Dogs

Like all pets, Löwchen dogs are also prone to some genetic, breed-related, and general health concerns. The most common health issues in them are patellar luxation, where the kneecap dislocates from its natural position, dental problems including tooth decay, gum diseases, and infections, and little to no distance vision or complete short-sightedness. Though it is not necessary that every Löwchen dog will suffer from these conditions. Moreover, regular health checkups and tests, feeding a well-balanced diet, and exercising are very effective in dealing with these health concerns. To make their lifespan healthy and not prone to any severe condition, it is very necessary to follow a few ideal practices.

Health Screening

As mentioned, it is very necessary to prevent their common health issues and make them fit and healthy. Hence, it is important to practice regular health screening and checkups of different parts of Löwchen dogs, including knees, eyes, and teeth.

Knee Health - Patellar luxation in Löwchen dogs can be detected through a physical checkup. It is also recommended to go through an orthopedic examination and different tests to check for patellar luxation. Ideally, it is recommended to do knee tests annually. Eye Health - To protect against vision-related issues, it is recommended to undergo annual eye tests at a veterinary clinic. Dental Health - A dental checkup twice a year is definitely a good idea. It helps to identify any dental issues well in advance. Prompt attention would prevent it from getting severe or converting into a serious infection. For timely treatment of all these severe health concerns, it is very necessary to keep an eye on their health condition. Some common health conditions that can be caused due to their everyday habits include yeast infections, dental problems, and obesity.

Early Signs of Illness

To stay fit and grow as per the average lifespan, it is highly recommended to visit a vet every now and then. Symptoms of veterinary care such as vomiting, diarrhea, cough, pale gums, blood in urine, and sudden weight loss should be taken seriously. In case of any of these symptoms, urgent attention should be given to ill Löwchen dogs.

Care and Nutrition

Regular dental brushing, shampooing, and nail trimming must be done to keep a Löwchen dog free from infections, allergies, or diseases. In addition to their veterinary checks, food and activity are also natural habits of improving their lifespan, including good nutritional diets. Their diet includes proteins, carbohydrates, fats, sodium, magnesium, iron, and proteins as they age. Regular exercise is also a must to keep them fit, motivated, healthy, and playful. Overweight dogs suffer from many infections such as arthritis, obesity, and preventive bowel disorders, representing viruses and bacteria, and are unable to digest properly.

Vaccinations and Veterinary Care - Timely vaccinations and keeping them away from seasonal infections and severe contagious diseases are also necessary to keep them healthy. A timely vet checkup also helps to identify early-stage health concerns.

12. Regular Veterinary Care and Vaccinations for Lowchen Dogs

An extraordinary number of Lowchen owners do an excellent job of maintaining close relationships with their veterinarians. It should be obvious that the best plan for a long, healthy life should include building a close working relationship with a knowledgeable veterinarian. Vaccinations are given to keep your dog from contracting diseases. At the present time, small dogs are afforded extra protection in the form of several vaccines that are further refined to keep them safe and be less taxing to the immune system. All Lowchens should be vaccinated to protect them from serious diseases, including parvovirus, rabies, and, dependent on your geographical area, Lyme disease, kennel cough, and other Bordetella and parainfluenza, and, in some cases, leptospirosis. Vaccination for any disease is not a lifetime protection; this includes rabies, since protocols vary based on the vaccine used at 12 and at 16 weeks of age, and then annually, or as recommended by your veterinarian.

Lowchen owners should always be on the alert for anything that seems serious and/or unusual, and they should not hesitate to see their veterinarian to have a suspected problem checked, diagnosed, and treated when it is first recognized. However, here is a general timeline that the owners of dogs should consider as a guideline for preventive health care. Make and keep these appointments so that the veterinarian can see your tiny dog and provide a comprehensive examination every twelve months. While the puppy is growing, perhaps as often as every six months would be appropriate. This schedule gets the pup used to the trip and to the examination. These annual check-ups are important because with the data obtained from these exams, the next developmental phase can be anticipated and proactive measures taken as we advise our clients on a course of action. Use your calendar to make necessary appointments to keep ahead of the problems instead of reacting to them. Bragging about the fact that a dog has never seen the veterinarian is akin to risking not being able to get early intervention if something happens or being able to manage an illness if it comes up. Since most veterinarians are computerized, they should always be updated with the medical record. If your contact information changes, let your veterinarian know. Complete exams should include a fecal examination for internal parasites and a regular deworming program. Special attention should be given to dental tartar or plaque and the gradual development of periodontal disease, as well as that tri-yearly heartworm exam, and recommended medications to prevent internal and external parasites. If parasites are found in the fecal examination, the personal advice of your veterinarian about what to do next is essential. The third and final vaccination in a year may also include the vaccine against rabies. Any follow-up to the second puppy examination and with later examination is an adult checkup.

13. Socialization and Interaction with Other Pets and People

Early socialization is necessary because it allows Lowchen puppies to gain confidence in various situations and receive guidance on how to react and behave. Take them to many new places, such as pet stores, shopping centers, children's playgrounds, hospitals, and any extracurricular activities to witness various people, sounds, and visuals. Puppy classes that allow dogs to play and interact with each other and puppies (or dogs) that have different characters, sizes, temperaments, and body types are an important part of letting them see small sizes to large sizes, especially in some places. Positive training classes can also offer puppies an introduction to focusing on people at the same time as other instructions, but have special features such as the things around them in a playful environment. Always make accommodations to consult your veterinarian for proper nutrition, vaccination schedules, and treatment for parasites and early veterinary care upon receiving your dog so that he can be socialized and occasionally cleaned.

Troubleshooting at an early age using extra space will allow puppies to expand their patience and independence in various situations. Lowchen puppies need to build trust and know they are in safe situations in a controlled, caring home and develop new and vivid experiences for bonding with family members and people before moving into an open space. Together with the family, providing a warm greeting and quality food and drink will help comfort you and make excellent pets. Ongoing training is also necessary, not only in young dogs but also in mature dogs, so households need to be invited into various situations. Social hygiene is just as important for pets and families. Lowchen has a low rate of fear or aggression towards people. Keep them calm while bathing and feeding. Include walking. They need to be accustomed to this procedure from an early age.

14. Traveling with Lowchen Dogs: Tips and Considerations

How to Travel with Your Lowchen

There are several considerations to keep in mind when traveling with your Lowchen. Preparation is the key to a successful journey. Ensure that you have everything in place to keep your dog safe prior to embarking on the trip. The following are some of the most important matters to tend to when traveling with your Lowchen:

● Purchase or pack the appropriate gear.

● When necessary, ensure that you've arranged pet-friendly lodging.
● Keep them informed about any health and vaccination issues.
● Before traveling, ensure that your dog is familiar with what lies ahead.

15. Creating a Safe and Enriching Environment for Lowchen Dogs

To ensure your Lowchen's safe travel, you must prepare accordingly. A dog car seat or a dog kennel is essential to keep your pooch safe and free from distractions when traveling with you. Before your trip, perform a test run in order to assess your dog's reaction to his dog harness or car seat. It will alleviate car travel anxiety and provide your pet with greater security while you are driving. In order to allow only minimal disturbance to drivers, for safety purposes and to ensure that dogs do not egress from car windows, it is imperative to secure the used restraint to the designated passenger seat of a car. Always stop by rest stops and dog parks along the way and join your dog for a brief walk or some playtime at both. Instead of feeding them too many treats, stop by a variety of locations to eat a light snack. Finally, it is particularly important to carry dog food and fresh water and to stick as closely to your regular feeding routine as possible to alleviate any troubles. Ensure that you bring with you a leash or collar with an ID as well as your dog's much-loved stuffed animal, blanket, or bed when you travel with your dog. Provide familiar scents of comfort if your dog experiences any anxiety from being in an unknown and unfamiliar environment.

Providing a safe and enriching environment is an important part of providing a good quality of life for a Löwchen dog. Ensuring they are in a safe environment is a must. Creating a safe living space that is free from hazards can help protect the curious and adventurous nature of Löwchen dogs who might get into things. This means moving things like power cords that a Löwchen might be tempted to chew on. If a Löwchen is able to go outside into the yard, it is important that the yard is secure enough to keep them contained. They should be safe from outside wandering pets, people, or other wildlife. The yard should be locked securely to keep inquisitive Löwchens contained. You may also consider a few feet of chicken wire laid back along the bottom of the fencing and then covering it up with mulch to make it harder for a small dog like a Löwchen to attempt to dig out, as some terriers are keen to do. Löwchens can get into things, so making sure they cannot get out is also important. The play area should be secure to ensure the safety of the dog during outside playtime.

An enriching environment also gives a Löwchen mental exercise and keeps their minds active. Interactive toys can be a good form of enrichment. Hide-and-seek games can be a fun form of play. This can involve training the dog to go into a kennel, another room, or just staying while you hide, then release to check around the hide spots to 'seek'. Providing regular changes in the toys, play, and exercise routines further broadens the worldview of a dog. Making time to just relax in the home and providing time and space for sleeping and relaxing is just as important as enrichment through toys, activities, and social interaction.

Attention to the social environment needs to take in other pets and other people. As a sociable and friendly dog, the Löwchen should be encouraged to meet different people in a positive setting. With any meeting with children, it must be stressed that children must be supervised around any dog to ensure that a positive meeting between child and dog can take place. If a Löwchen is to meet other pets, such as an older dog in the house, introduce them slowly and ensure that the Löwchen has a safe retreat where it can get away if it feels the need to do so. Providing a safe and healthy environment for a Löwchen is important in helping them to live a long and happy life in the family.

16. Understanding the Lowchen's Behavior and Communication

A few guidelines will help you understand how your Löwchen expresses his needs, emotions, and desires. Body language, facial expressions, vocalizations—all these cues help your Löwchen communicate. The better you understand how your Löwchen communicates his wants and needs, the easier it will be to understand what your dog wants to say to you. Some behavior changes with time, but these traits will give you a good idea of what the Löwchen is like as a breed. Löwchen dogs are intelligent, curious, active, and friendly. The Löwchen is affectionate and charming. This affectionate dog makes a wonderful companion and is generally good with other animals. These little dogs are bold and curious. They're smarter than the average bear, and if you don't want them climbing over everything, they should start training very early indeed. They really are very easily trainable. They love to play and are good travelers. Löwchen love children. They can be noisy, however. You need to work on training your Löwchen as soon as you get them. This takes a little time because it can make the dog nervous at first if they are chewed and then berated for it. One of the main issues Löwchen can have is separation anxiety. They like to be with their humans. They will bark when they are bored or lonely, and they can be quite difficult to live next door to as a result. If you have a Löwchen and you have to go out to work, it's worth finding a dog-sitter to keep them company for the day. As with most small breeds, some Löwchen tend to be quite protective and bark a lot. Managing unwanted behavior is the most important thing in the world to these little dogs. Using the usual positive reinforcement training is important, as are patience and consistency.

17. Obedience and Behavioral Training for Lowchen Dogs

Training Lowchen Dogs:

New owners of Lowchen dogs should be aware that obedience training is required to establish good behavior in their pets from the start and indicate to them who the pack leader is. Furthermore, owners should cultivate their dogs to be respectful, particularly around small children. Lowchen dogs are quick to pick up bad habits and, like all dogs, they will attempt to take over the leadership role of the pack if they are not reminded of their place. This breed, due to intelligence, is a very quick trainer if it is trained properly using techniques such as positive reinforcement that offer lots of praise, love, and good dog treats. Generally, Lowchen dogs respond best to training techniques that utilize rewards rather than punishment. Dogs of this breed typically learn the basic commands such as "come," "sit," "heat," "stay," "quiet," and "drop" at the tender age of 6 to 9 weeks.

Early obedience training aids in establishing a closer bond with a Lowchen dog. Training also helps in teaching the owner how to communicate his or her desires to the dog. The four most essential commands to train your Lowchen dog are "come," "heat," "sit," and "stay," as they are a foundation for a variety of future activities. A puppy that is taught "stay" will be less inclined to show aggressive behavior in social situations. It is important to note that Lowchen dogs could become nervous after shouting during that type of training. Canine training sessions offer a fun way to spend time with Lowchen dogs while reinforcing good behavior around your pet. It is necessary for the dogs to use consistent and repetitive training techniques as they thrive in this environment. Perseverance and patience are essential during training periods, as no progress in training this canine can result from changing tactics or being inconsistent. Tolerance in dogs is essential. Owners should reserve 10-15 minutes daily to work with their Lowchen dog and should encompass the teaching of new commands while addressing behavioral issues. Behavioral training is also a critical aspect of training. Some simple behavioral problems include teaching your little dog not to jump up on individuals.

18. Advanced Training and Activities for Lowchen Dogs

Advanced training builds on the basic principles of communication and understanding introduced in the basic Lowchen training section: all training is positive, motivation-based training. This kind of advanced training isn't necessarily about real-world applications for Lowchen dealing with traditional hunting and working dog duties like herding, retrieving, and carting. Being a companion breed and a bit of a Renaissance dog, "activity" is often more important than purpose for Lowchen. Activities like agility, obedience trials, tricks, and other "brain sports" are perfect for Lowchen, who are often smarter than their owners. Training using advanced methods and different types of activities can help Lowchen be more responsive and comfortable in a variety of situations.

Different activities train muscles, mind, and cardio systems differently. For a balanced fitness profile, it is just as important that a Lowchen runs for a ball as it is that he does jumping jacks. Balance training like this can prevent injuries down the road. Regularly challenging our dogs, both mentally and physically, helps ward off boredom and the problems it brings. Lowchen are intelligent dogs and thrive on knowing what to do. The dog who is asked to "wait" while the cat walks past, then "down stay" while the owner signs for a package at the front door keeps the type of rigorous, complex schedule Lowchen fill their days with. When theory became practice, and an agility trial was suggested as a way to keep Lowchen from becoming a boring show dog, the sport went from being a rich man's pastime to one of the fastest growing dog sports around.

19. Participating in Dog Shows and Competitions with Lowchen Dogs

Participating in dog shows and competitions is a delightful part of life for many people who are involved in the dog world. Being a part of such events is great fun, and meeting people with the same interests brings a feeling of community. In a dog show, Lowchens are judged in conformation rings. If a Lowchen is finished, he or she can compete in the special classes to gain points, even if he or she is a neuter. A conformation champion must have a predetermined total of fifteen or more points, two majors won under different judges, and must also win under a third judge. The dog can also participate in agility, obedience, or rally events if he or she meets the breed requirements and is registered with that special venue.

Preparing the Lowchen for a show or competitive event requires some effort. A well-behaved, well-groomed, conditioned, and prepared dog stands a better chance of success in the rings. Show and performance competitions are not only for putting the dogs on a pedestal. Attending these events can help teach us, as puppy buyers and fanciers, what the standard of that breed should be. When people can understand what the correct standard of a breed is, they usually make better decisions in breeding, raising, and showing the breed in the future. Placing in a class is sometimes a bonus for the owner to be able to say that they have a quality dog.

20. The Role of Lowchen Dogs in Therapy and Assistance Work

Gregarious, affectionate nature: Lowchen are renowned and prized for their temperaments. The breed standard indicates the breed should show the following temperament traits: lively, affectionate, intelligent, and alert. It’s for these reasons that Lowchen suit therapy settings. In therapy work, Lowchen or pet owners enter therapy settings to visit with patients who benefit from positive contact with a friendly animal. There are different therapy animal roles:

- Emotional support animals

- Service animals
- Animal-assisted activities.

21. Celebrating and Honoring the Lowchen Breed: Events and Clubs

While there are no tests required to be a therapy dog and animal, there are certain requirements therapy animals need to meet before heading out into the field. The example excerpt below carries the sentiment of pride of the dog owner:

‘Since then, Poppi has attended many camps for children living with physical disabilities, autism, and ADHD. Like Mini in the story below, Poppi brought smiles to every child’s face and unconditional love. She worked from 8 a.m. in the morning until 9 p.m. at night and then spread herself amongst three girls for sleeping duty: one in the bed, one on her mattress, and the other on the stretcher. So a huge pat on the back to Chrissie, our first Rare Breed Australian Lowchen to work as a therapy dog with special needs children for over 10 years. These stories are what really make my job worthwhile.’

After a test is passed, a dog can earn a Therapy Dog certificate and have the right to use the title "Therapy Dog." The dogs and their handlers are encouraged to join a therapy organization and be actively involved with them. They also get ongoing support from the organization for their program. The positive difference that non-verbal canines make as therapy dogs to humans who benefit from pet therapy is remarkable. Assistant dogs need to be specially trained, often to meet the unique needs of a person for a life as a service dog. In many cases, a person with a disability may not further train their puppy as a form of pet therapy as their needs dictate they need a specific assistance dog. Often, the Lowchen goes into families with assistance dog-like qualities – it is as though they are aware of their special role in their owner’s life – working very hard to protect them. Just because a handler says “no” to people touching their dog – please don’t be offended – that dog may be someone’s trained seizure dog and can't be distracted or overwhelmed in their job.

Throughout the year, various events occur which allow us to celebrate and honor the companion video and his dog, the Löwchen. These events also provide attendees and exhibitors with an opportunity to showcase their Löwchen. Breed judging, obedience/rally trials, corresponding educational events, and more occur at many of these events. Some people find the amount of information and titles offered at these events rather overwhelming. It is important to recognize that not all of these events are held in close proximity to Indiana. It's natural for folks to want to see the breed judged. Even then, visitors will have the opportunity to connect with other Löwchen enthusiasts, many of whom have years of experience and wisdom with the breed to share. Not everyone is interested in participating in dog sports events. Nevertheless, they often participate in local and national dog shows. The information would be a wonderful opportunity for a Löwchen owner to go to a dog show and watch as the judge goes over the Löwchen. Local dog clubs and parent clubs hold educational events. These can vary from breed-specific topics, including health and wellness, to pet manners and general care. It can be interesting to go to these sorts of gatherings to meet other people who have the same sort of dog as you. It can also be interesting for individuals who are considering this breed or who have children who are pestering them to get more information to attend. Contacting the regional specialty clubs or your national breed club is an excellent way to find local breed events being held. There are Löwchen owners and enthusiasts in just about every state in the U.S. as well as in countries around the world. Some have incorporated regional breed clubs. Some owners have even started local breed groups where individuals can gather and support one another in the best interest of their Löwchen. There are also a number of national and international clubs and associations dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the Löwchen. Breed clubs are often rich in either historical or breed-specific protocol, and they are always in favor of responsible Löwchen ownership. Additionally, breed clubs and specialty clubs offer a place where Löwchen owners and enthusiasts can come together and provide a supportive community in consortium betterment of the breed as valued companions to a family. They can also defend the best interest of the Löwchen in a paradigm and inform you of any upcoming events that high-quality Löwchen, including your new Löwchen, may be eligible to attend. Try to get involved with your local breed club and regularly attend one of their meetings either locally or online. This is a great way to learn about local to national Löwchen events. Also, consider joining one or more national breed clubs both for the United States and worldwide. Again, this is a great way to become apprised of Löwchen events that need to be on your radar.

22. Conclusion: The Joy and Rewards of Owning a Lowchen Dog

In conclusion, for those adopting a dog, a Lowchen is a wonderful choice. They enrich the lives of their humans with their exuberance and affectionately clingy ways. And while they may be smaller in size, their hearts, bravery, and unique personalities make them truly giants of the dog world. These dogs are more than just pets; they are cherished family members who bring joy and spark into anyone's life. Their tenderness, loyalty, intelligence, and love are their best traits, and an owner who can handle the responsibility will reap the rich rewards of such a dependable and steadfast companion. Lowchen are fantastic companions who form deep attachments with their owners. They will follow them from room to room, enjoying every moment of being loved and petted. In return, an owner can tip the scales a bit in their favor by acknowledging that most Lowchen will feel neglected and withdraw if an owner does not spend enough time with them. In other words, when owning a Lowchen, it is important to keep in mind that what one gives, they will receive in multiples. It is only fair and only right that a dog offering such deep commitment and loyalty should expect the same in return. With love, care, and attention, and perhaps a few carefully chosen Lowchen toys, any companion who truly values what it means to own a dog can start the journey towards reaping the multiple rewards that come from owning a Lowchen.

References:

Kottke, I. G., 2020. Games of paint and print: strategies of juxtaposition in the Hours of Charles d'Angoulême. utexas.edu

Faron, S. K., 2023. The Wise Old Woman Spirit: Help as a Partnership. [HTML]