Little Lion Dogs «back  next» A breed popular as far back as the Middle Ages, the Lowchen is also called the little lion dog, a bow to its size (barely 15 pounds) and look, not its ferocity (its temperament is described as loving and outgoing). The resemblance to the big cat is amplified by a distinctive "lion clip" that approximates a lion's mane. By the 1950s, Lowchens had almost disappeared. As recently as 1969, it was named the rarest breed in the world in the Guinness Book of Records. In 1976, a Lowchen named Adam was listed as the world's most expensive dog at £10,000, about $16,000 at the time and $53,000 in today's money. Lowchens have made a comeback and in 1995 the American Kennel Club registered the breed. Breeder Teresa Skaggs of Symphony Lowchens in Lawton, Oklahoma, says Lowchens make great family pets because they "like to be with you all the time." As Lowchens have become less rare their prices have dropped, but they still cost more than most dogs. Skaggs reports that she has sold only one puppy this year, for $1,500. "I usually end up keeping them," she says. next»