The Lowchen’s coat is clipped from the last rib, down over the rear and down the back leg to the hock. It is clipped down the tail to leave one-third of the tail as plumage. It is also clipped from the elbow to just above the wrist.The Lowchen requires regular brushing and grooming – this is a breed whose coat can mat within 20 of bathing. It has a fine, long, single coat, which comes in any color, marking or combination of both. The Lowchen cannot be bred for color – you get what you get!

The Grooming Process

Equipment needed: Exhibitors tend to use a combination of clippers and a wide-toothed comb, although pet owners can manage the coat using a pin brush and a comb. The soft coat will mat if not regularly brushed.

• Comb through with a wide-toothed comb or a pin brush.
• Bathe in a good-quality dog shampoo. Rinse well.
• Apply conditioning cream.
• Dry with a blower while gently brushing the hair with a pin brush or wide-toothed comb.
• If clipping your dog (most pet owners will not bother), use your chosen blade size. This is a matter of personal choice – some people use a No. 5 blade, while others use a No. 30 blade. Popular choices are No. 10 and No. 15 blades, which clip quite close to the body. Start just behind the last rib and incorporate the whole back leg down to the hock.
• Clip the front leg with your chosen blade size. Clip from just below the elbow to a line that is level with the start of the hair left at the hock on the back leg.
• Clip two-thirds of the tail with your blade from the base up, leaving a plumage on the end.
• Comb all plumage.
• Check the dog’s nails, ears and teeth.