- Breed name: Little lion dog
- Original breed name: PETIT CHIEN LION
- FCI classification: Group 7 – Companion and leisure dogs
- Origin: France
- Size: Small dog
- Average life expectancy: 12 – 14 years
The little lion dog is known for his specific lion hairstyle, after which he got his name. An intelligent, affectionate and playful pet, a great choice for families with children living in a smaller space.
ORIGIN
The breed originates from the Mediterranean, and according to some sources, they already existed in France, Spain and Germany during the 14th century. He was a favorite dog among the aristocracy, especially among the ladies of that time who liked to pose for portraits with their pets. They exist on numerous works by old masters, and there are also some in churches carved in stone (Amiens Cathedral from the 14th century). Francisco de Goya, among others, used them as models. Like many other dogs popular among the aristocracy, breed almost became extinct in the period after World War II. Several enthusiasts from a Belgian kennel from Brussels literally saved several specimens of this breed from the street and started re-breeding them. In 1969, they had the title of the rarest dog in the world in the Guinness Book of Records. The French breeders club of this breed was founded in 1974.
APPEARANCE
The little lion dog has a strong, harmonious and short body. The hair is semi-sharp, of medium length and can appear in any color or color combination. The tail is of medium length and set high. The eyes are round, dark in color and very large while the ears are close to the cheeks and have specific fringes. The head is short with a rather broad skull. The nose is black, the body short and proportionate with straight and narrow legs with soft and round paws. This dog is groomed like a poodle, so because of its expressive mane and proud posture, he is named little lion dog. The average height of this dog in the ridge is between 26 and 32 cm, and the weight is about 6 kg.
CHARACTER
The little lion dog is an affectionate, gentle and very intelligent dog. He is good with children, with friendly and playful character. He usually gets along well with other dogs and other pets. Because of his intelligence, he learns quite quickly, but he needs gentle training without rudeness. He is attentive and responds well to obedience training if he is not forced to do so.
HEALTH AND CARE
He is suitable for keeping in the apartment, but with obligatory daily walks and physical activities. As a breed, they are very active indoors so it is not necessary to provide them with a yard. His hair requires daily brushing, as well as regular haircuts and bathing approximately every two months. Most owners opt for the services of a professional groomer because of the maintenance of his characteristic lion hairstyle. As a breed they are very healthy, with no known genetic diseases. With proper care and nutrition, they can live to be 16 years old.
Statistics
* Energy level: High level
* Playfulness level: High level
* Attitude towards other dogs: Friendly
* Relationship to other pets: Friendly
* Attitude towards strangers: Friendly
* Ease of training: Easy to train
* Protection: Low level of protection
* Maintenance required: Medium difficult to maintain
* Heat tolerance: Moderate tolerance
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