Favourites of the Florentine Nobles of the 15th century the Löwchen catered to the whims of the elite. Ladies at court clipped the hair from the dog's backs and used them as hot water bottles. Developed in Europe, the breed has been traditionally clipped similar to the Portuguese Water Dog in the lion trim. In fact, with his clip, waving hair, his tail set high over his back and his colour varieties, one can almost imagine him a miniature of that breed. This is probably not his immediate origin, but the similarity of the Bichon family and the water dogs is emphasized by these comparisons. The Little Lion Dog undoubtedly evolved from the family of Bichons, as they traveled from the Mediterranean into Europe. Many feel that the breed was developed in Germany, but France is listed as the official country of development.
The Löwchen has been established in Spain, France and Germany since the 1500s. One of this type was painted by Goya in the late 18th century in the portrait of the beautiful Duchess of Alba. These dogs with the lion cut are often depicted at the feet of armoured knights on tombs in old churches. The story goes that if a knight was killed in battle, he had a figure of a lion at his feet, demonstrating his courage. Otherwise he had the Little Lion Dogs, the Löwchens, as did the ladies-perhaps to provide them with courage or comfort in their battles in the after life.
In more modern times, the Löwchen fell out of favour and nearly disappeared. The few that were left were turned out into the streets to fend for themselves during the stress and uncertainty of the war years. Thanks to the postwar efforts of a Madame Bennert of Brussels, Belgium, a dedicated fancier, The Little Lion dog was slowly brought back from obscurity. She combed the streets, collecting typical specimens. These contributed to the resurgence of the breed. Her work was carried on by a German, Dr. Richert, after her death. In 1960 the Löwchen was named the rarest breed by the Guinness Book of World Records.
They are now recognised in many countries of the world, including Australia but are still considered fairly rare.
Despite its diminutive size, the Löwchen is robust and full of energy, yet sensible and not hyperactive. A dog of intelligence and affection, he is exclusively a house pet and companion, and is winning admiration in many parts of Australia.
Why a Löwchen?
A 'bit of a clown' is one way to describe the Löwchen. Their generally happy disposition and willingness to please make them the ideal companion animal. The Löwchens head is described as 'meltingly pleasant' in many books and this is truly the case.
They come in a variety of colours and their final coat colour is not settled until adulthood. The young black Löwchen can well grow up to become the cream coloured Löwchen of tomorrow.
Robust and generally sound with few medical problems noted to date in the breed in this country they are ideally suited to families with limited space. They do though require regular grooming and exercise as is the case with all breeds.
In Australia they are grouped as a Toy Breed with the Canine bodies responsible for the conduct of pure bred dogs and have a maximum size of 33cm. at the shoulder.
If you are seeking a small, loyal, charming house dog and prepared to accept the need for regular grooming, then the Löwchen might well suit you and your families needs.
|
