The favourite animal of the Florentine Nobles of the 15th Century, the Lowchen 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 (poodle look). This is probably not its 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 travelled from the Mediterranean into Europe. Many feel that the breed was developed in Germany, but France is listed as the official country of development. They are now recognised in many countries of the world, including Australia, but are still considered fairly rare.

It can live up to 15 years of age.

BREED PERSONALITY, CHARACTERISTICS & TEMPERAMENT

A bit of a clown is one way to describe the Lowchen. Its happy disposition and willingness to please makes them the ideal companion animal. Despite its diminutive size, the Lowchen is robust and full of energy, yet sensible and not hyperactive. A dog of intelligence and affection, it is exclusively a house pet and companion and is winning admiration in many parts of Australia.

COMPATIBILITY WITH OTHER PETS

Very good. Will accept other pets if introduced at an early age.

CARE REQUIREMENTS

Robust and generally sound with few medical problems, they are ideally suited to families with limited space. They do require regular grooming and exercise.

Please take note:
This breed is long coated and requires regular grooming and clipping.

IDEAL OWNERS

If you are seeking a loyal and charming house dog and prepared to accept the need for regular grooming, then the Lowchen might well suit you.

IN CONCLUSION

If you have decided that the Lowchen is the dog for you and you realize that you need to groom it regularly, contact one of the groups listed below:

DECISION TIME

Before making a decision on getting a puppy, here are some articles you might find helpful:

• What do we need to consider if we are thinking of buying a puppy?
• How do I determine which breeder to use?
• What should you ask the breeder?
• How do you check if the breeder is reputable?
• What to ask your vet prior to buying a puppy

RECOMMENDED BREEDERS

Breeder Name	Kennel	State
Steve Warry	WA	Contact
Glenis Field	QLD	Contact
Sharon Lancey	QLD	Contact
Fran Darling	QLD	Contact
Chris Van	QLD	Contact
Ross and Tracy Wittenberg	SA	Contact
Lorraine Chippindale	WA	Contact
Lou Howlett-Trahar	VIC	Contact
James Powell	NSW	Contact
CHERIE TULK	SA	Contact
Joan Harrison	VIC	Contact

* We have vetted and approved these independent breeders as meeting, at the time, our criteria for the reliable breeding, feeding, care and sale of suitable quality puppies of this breed. This does not mean that other breeders do not meet these criteria or are not otherwise suitable suppliers. Nor can our vetting and approval guarantee the quality of a breeder or puppy or that you will be happy with them. We disclaim any liability for the quality, acts or omissions of these breeders or their puppies and our approval of breeders is not a substitute for you making all appropriate enquiries and checks (including veterinary checks) before choosing a specific breeder or puppy.

CANINE CLUBS

Australian Capital Territory ACT Canine Association Inc PO Box 815 Dickson, ACT 2602 Tel: 02 6241 4404 Fax: 02 6241 1129 Email: CONTACT Website: www.actca.asn.au (Details correct as of 1/08/04)		New South Wales Dogs New South Wales PO Box 632 St Marys, NSW 1790 Tel: 02 9834 3022 or 1300 728 022 (NSW only) Fax: 02 9834 3872 Email: CONTACT Website: www.dogsnsw.org.au (Details current as of 22/11/11)
Northern Territory The North Australian Canine Association Inc PO Box 37521 Winnellie, NT 0821 Tel: 08 8984 3570 Fax: 08 8984 3409 Email: CONTACT Website: www.users.bigpond.com/naca1/ (Details correct as of 6/08/04)		Queensland Canine Control Council (Queensland) PO Box 495 Fortitude Valley, Qld 4006 Tel: 07 3252 2661 Fax: 07 3252 3864 Email: CONTACT Website: www.cccq.org.au (Details correct as of 1/08/04)
South Australia South Australian Canine Association Inc PO Box 844 Prospect East, SA 5082 Tel: 08 8349 4797 Fax: 08 8262 5751 Email: CONTACT Website: www.saca.caninenet.com (Details correct as of 1/08/04)		Tasmania Tasmanian Canine Association Inc The Rothman Building PO Box 116 Glenorchy, Tas 7010 Tel: 03 6272 9443 Fax: 03 6273 0844 Email: CONTACT Website: www.tasdogs.com/ (Details correct as of 1/08/04)
Victoria Victorian Canine Association Locked Bag K9 Cranbourne, Vic 3977 Tel: 03 9788 2500 Fax: 03 9788 2599 Email: CONTACT Website: www.vca.org.au (Details correct as of 1/08/04)		Western Australia Canine Association of Western Australia Inc PO Box 1404 Canning Vale, WA 6970 Tel: 08 9455 1188 Fax: 08 9455 1190 Email: CONTACT Website: www.cawa.asn.au (Details correct as of 1/08/04)