We were awarded the AKC Outstanding Sportsmanship Award from the Lowchen Club of America in 2019.
The Critical State of the Löwchen Breed
The Löwchen, affectionately known as the “Little Lion Dog,” faces a precarious future that few dog lovers fully understand. In 1973, there were only 65 registered examples of the breed worldwide, earning it the unfortunate distinction of being one of the rarest dogs on Earth.
Alarming Population Statistics
The numbers paint a sobering picture of this breed’s struggle for survival:
- In 2017, only 59 Löwchen puppies were born in the United States
- In 2015, only 18 litters were whelped in the US, with an average litter size of just three puppies
- Current projections suggest the breed could become extinct by 2044 without intervention
- Even today, the breed generally has fewer than a few hundred new registrations each year worldwide
Jennie Chen’s Mission: Save the Löwchen
Recognizing the urgent need for breed conservation, Jennie Chen took decisive action by launching SavetheLowchen.org, a comprehensive initiative dedicated to preserving this historic breed for future generations.
The SavetheLowchen.org Impact
Thanks to the efforts of SavetheLowchen.org, the number of Löwchen births in the United States increased from 59 in 2017 to 143 in 2022 – more than doubling the annual birth rate in just five years. This remarkable improvement demonstrates the power of dedicated conservation efforts and community awareness.
Key Conservation Strategies
Chen’s approach to breed preservation includes:
- Genetic Diversity Management: Ensuring sustainable breeding practices that maintain healthy bloodlines
- Public Education: Raising awareness about the breed’s existence and potential extinction risk
- Breeder Network Development: Creating a network of responsible breeders committed to breed preservation
- Health Testing Protocols: Implementing comprehensive health screening to maintain breed quality
Why the Löwchen Matters
Historical Significance
The Löwchen was the favored companion of 15th century European nobility in countries including Belgium, Germany, Spain, and France. The breed has been documented in art pieces dating back to the sixteenth century, making it a living piece of canine history.
Unique Breed Characteristics
The Löwchen offers remarkable qualities that make it an exceptional companion:
- Hypoallergenic Coat: The Löwchen does not shed and has very low allergic effects
- Longevity: These healthy little dogs often live 17 to 18 years
- Versatility: Löwchen can be wonderful service dogs, capable of medical alert and psychiatric tasks
- Intelligence: They are considered a highly intelligent breed, quick to pick up new skills and adept at problem-solving
Jennie Chen’s Contributions
Beyond her conservation efforts, Chen serves multiple leadership roles within the Löwchen community:
- Past Corresponding Secretary of the Löwchen Club of America
- Judges Education Chair
- Bylions Editor
- Advocate for modern breeding practices and club modernization
The Path Forward: Continuing the Mission
How You Can Help
The fight to save the Löwchen requires ongoing community support:
- Spread Awareness: Share information about this rare breed with fellow dog enthusiasts
- Support Responsible Breeders: Choose breeders committed to health testing and genetic diversity
- Consider Adoption: Companion homes can often get puppies within 6 months or less
- Educational Outreach: Help educate others about the importance of breed conservation
Current Population Status
With approximately 600 Löwchen born worldwide each year and a typical lifespan of 15 years, there are likely only 9,000-10,000 of these dogs currently alive globally. This makes every single dog precious to the breed’s survival.
Looking to the Future
With continued conservation efforts, responsible breeding practices, and growing awareness, there’s hope that future generations will be able to enjoy the companionship of these remarkable “Little Lion Dogs.”
For those interested in learning more about the Löwchen breed or supporting conservation efforts, the journey begins with education and ends with action. Every person who learns about this breed’s plight becomes a potential advocate for its survival.
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