Dog That Looks Like A Lion: The Top 7 Lion-Like Dogs

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Many dog breeds surfaced over the years. Some are bred to be companion dogs, while others are trained to be working dogs. If you’re among the dog lovers who love a dog that looks like a lion, then you’re at the right place.

There are dog breeds that are undeniably more lion-like than the rest. They may look fierce and strong on the outside, but most are gentle giants who have a big heart on the inside. Wonder which breed is included in our list of dog that looks like a lion? Here are seven lion-like dogs worth knowing.

Chow Chow

First on our list are these violet-tongued canines developed from China, the Chow Chow. This ancient and noble breed of dog that looks like a lion is a lion at heart and in appearance. In China, many regards Chow Chows as “Songshi Quan,” which means puffy-lion dog. Many also refer to this breed as the Dog of the Tang Empire or Tang Quan. One can see Chow Chows as stone guards in many Buddhist temples and palaces.

The Chinese developed this breed as a multi-purpose working dog. Their tasks include herding, guarding, pulling carts, and hunting. They weigh about 20-25 kg and lives up to 12 years. Around strangers, they can be aloof and aggressive. This is the reason why Chow Chow owners need to make sure to train their dogs from a young age on how to socialize with people, other dogs, and animals.

Löwchen

Many call this breed the Little Lion because it indeed resembles a mini lion. During the pre-Renaissance Europe, court ladies have pet Löwchens as companion dogs. They kept royalties warm in bed during the cold season, and are an excellent flea catcher. While Lowchens look like a mini lion, their lively, friendly, and affectionate personalities make them an excellent companion dog.

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Löwchens weigh around 15 pounds and lives up to 13-15 years. This non-shedding and portable dog has an enormous heart. This dog that looks like a lion come in different colors have plummed tail and a full mane, deserving to be added on our list.

Tibetan Mastiff

This breed can be the king of all lion-like dogs. Although big, strong, and puffy, the Tibetan Mastiff is a gentle giant. These were developed in Tibet to guard flocks and homestead. If you’re a newbie dog owner, then a Tibetan Mastiff is not for you. One has to be an experienced dog owner to own such a huge dog, no matter how gentle the breed may be.

This breed is one of the most sought-after dog breeds in Europe and Asia. TheyAs a matter of fact, they are one of the most expensive dogs in China, as many Chinese use them as fashion and status symbol. These intelligent and tempered dogs are loyal to their family, but dominant among strangers. They weigh about 34-73 kg and live up to 15 years. They require lots of physical activities and require a big space to live in, and are only for experienced dog owners.

Leonberger

The Leonberger is bred to look like lions. They are giant working dogs developed in Germany. Leonbergers may not resemble lions much in their appearance, but their strength and elegant posture are the same as that of a lion. This breed was developed for guarding, farming and drafting.

A Leonberger typically weighs around 90-170kgs and lives up to 9 years. This lush-coated dog that looks like a lion is a gentle, serene, and playful breed to its family. They’ve got triangular ears, medium to long waterproof coat, a bushy tail and lion-like mane on its chest and neck. They make as an excellent watchdog and companions thanks to their intelligence, unlimited love, and fuzzy fur.

Newfoundland

The Newfoundland is large lion-like dogs with brown, black or white and black voluminous fur. Thanks to their large, regal, and fluffy hair, they look exactly like the king of the jungle. This responsive, obedient, and excellent companion dogs were bred as a working dog. They are excellent swimmers, which makes them a good companion for fishermen.

Newfoundlands are great pets good that are gentle with children. When trained the right way, they can be good to strangers too. They can weigh around 45-70 kg and lives up to 10 years. This patient, devoted, and sweet dog breed makes earned their title as an excellent nanny-dogs for families with little kids.

Alaskan Malamute

Another dog that looks like a lion is the Alaskan Malamute. This is another dog breed with a regal, powerful, and strong stature that knows it’s beauty and fearsome appearance. They can weigh around 75-85 lbs, with a life expectancy of 10-14 years. They are of a spitz-type of dog breeds that are pack animals. This means if you wish to own one, you need to show you’re the alpha of the pack.

Begin training your Alaskan Malamute as early as possible. Make sure to give them a big space to walk around and build a fence that is at least 6 feet tall. Walk them for at least an hour daily, make all of your family members spend time with your dog as often as possible. Comb their fur as often as needed, and clean their teeth and ears regularly.

Pomeranian

Pom-Poms may look cute and cuddly, but these tiny dog breeds have an undeniable charm that reminds you of a well-groomed lion. They stand at 7 inches to 1 foot tall and weigh around 3-7 pounds. Most Pomeranians live around 12-16 years. They belong in the Spitz family and are a close cousin of the Alaskan Malamute.

Pomeranians earned their title as one of the most regal and popular dog breeds after Queen Victoria showed some of her Pom-Poms in a conformation show. They make excellent companion dogs thanks to their independent, loyal, and fluffy appearance. If you’re looking for a dog that looks like a lion, but in a cute size, then Pomeranians are for you. But don’t be fooled by their tiny frame, as they can be bold and feisty when they want to.