Updated · Published by Radif Partners
Lowchen Colors & Coat Guide
All recognized Lowchen colors, coat types, genetics, and how color can impact pricing and health.
The Lowchen belongs to the Non-Sporting group and originates from France. Adults typically weigh between 12 and 18 pounds, standing 12 to 14 inches at the shoulder. Life expectancy runs from 13 to 15 years, and the figures on this page describe that range rather than a single average, because the spread is what matters when you are deciding. Running costs settle around $124 a month once the dog is past puppyhood, before insurance and before anything unexpected. These numbers come from published breed standards and, where a standard is silent, from longevity and veterinary studies; they describe the breed as a population and not the dog in front of you. Line, upbringing, early socialisation and simple chance move an individual well away from the typical profile, and two dogs of the same breed often differ more than two dogs of different breeds. Nothing here is a diagnosis: for a specific animal, a veterinary surgeon who has examined it will always know more than a table.
Lowchen Colors Overview
The Lowchen comes in several recognized coat colors. One of the few breeds where all colors and combinations are accepted in the show ring. Color does not affect temperament or health, giving breeders wide latitude..
Coat color is determined by genetics, with some colors being dominant and others recessive. Understanding color genetics can help predict puppy colors and identify responsible breeding practices.
All Lowchen Colors
The Lowchen is recognized in 8 color variations. Standard colors are those accepted by major kennel clubs for conformation showing, while non-standard colors may occur naturally but are not eligible for the show ring. Both standard and non-standard colored Lowchens make equally wonderful companions.
Standard vs Non-Standard Lowchen Colors
Standard colors (8): Black, Chocolate, Blue, Black and Tan, Gold, Red, Silver, White. These colors are accepted by the AKC and other major kennel clubs for conformation competition. Standard-colored Lowchens are typically priced within the normal $2000–$3500 range.
How Color Affects Lowchen Price
| Standard colors | Normal pricing ($2000–$3500) |
| Rare/unusual colors | Premium pricing (+$1050–$1750) |
While color can influence the price of a Lowchen puppy, prospective owners should prioritize health testing, breeder reputation, and temperament over coat color. A responsibly bred Lowchen in a common color with comprehensive health clearances is a better investment than a "rare" colored puppy from untested parents. The base price range for Lowchens is $2000–$3500, with color-based premiums adding to that range for certain variations.
Lowchen Coat Type and Grooming
The Lowchen's long, flowing, and moderately soft single coat coat requires grooming appropriate to its texture and density. With grooming needs rated 4/5 and shedding at 1/5, owners should plan their maintenance routine accordingly.
This breed requires significant coat maintenance. Daily or near-daily brushing prevents matting, distributes natural oils, and keeps the coat healthy. Professional grooming every 4–8 weeks maintains proper coat length and condition. Budget $31–97 per month for grooming expenses, and invest in quality grooming tools including appropriate brushes, combs, and dematting tools.
Regardless of coat color, all Lowchens benefit from regular nail trimming every 2–3 weeks, ear cleaning weekly (especially for breeds with floppy ears), and dental care including brushing three or more times per week. These basic grooming tasks prevent common health problems and keep your dog comfortable.
Lowchen Coat Genetics
The Lowchen's coat color is the product of several interacting genes. One of the few breeds where all colors and combinations are accepted in the show ring. Color does not affect temperament or health, giving breeders wide latitude..
Modern DNA testing panels can identify a dog's genotype at key color loci, allowing breeders to predict puppy colors and avoid producing colors linked to health issues (such as double merle).
Rare vs Standard Lowchen Colors
Rare Lowchen colors can be fascinating from a genetics perspective, but proceed with caution. One of the few breeds where all colors and combinations are accepted in the show ring. Color does not affect temperament or health, giving breeders wide latitude.. Premium pricing for unusual colors beyond the standard $2000–$3500 range does not guarantee quality breeding.
The best approach is to choose a Lowchen breeder who health-tests thoroughly for Patellar Luxation and Progressive Retinal Atrophy and produces well-tempered dogs, regardless of coat color.
Do Lowchen Colors Change with Age?
Color evolution is normal in Lowchen puppies. As a non-sporting breed originally from France, the transition from puppy to adult coat occurs between 4–12 months and can bring noticeable changes in shade, pattern intensity, and marking definition. Standard colors like Black, Chocolate, Blue, Black and Tan, Gold, Red, Silver, Wh are generally established by maturity.
Choosing a Lowchen by Color
When selecting a Lowchen puppy, coat color is one of the most visible factors, but it should be among the last in your decision-making process. Here is a practical framework for evaluating color alongside more important factors:
- Health testing comes first: Both parents should have documented clearances for breed-relevant conditions including Patellar Luxation. No color is worth compromising on health documentation.
- Temperament matters more: Meet the puppies and both parents when possible. A well-socialized puppy with stable temperament from health-tested parents in a common color outweighs a "rare" colored puppy from an unknown background.
- Breeder reputation is essential: Reputable breeders prioritize producing healthy, well-tempered puppies and are transparent about all aspects of their program. They do not market "rare" or "exotic" colors at inflated prices.
- Then consider color: Once health, temperament, and breeder quality are confirmed, choose the color that appeals to you. All 8 recognized Lowchen colors can produce healthy, happy companions.
Controversial Colors
In the Lowchen world, so-called 'rare' colors can be controversial. The breed standard recognizes colors like Black, Chocolate, Blue, Black and Tan, Gold, Red, Silver, Wh, and deviations may involve genes associated with health problems. Breeders who focus on color over health may cut corners on testing for Patellar Luxation and Progressive Retinal Atrophy.
Frequently Asked Questions
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