8 cute dogs that look just like lions

Whether by a careful haircut or genetic blessing, there are some dogs that naturally resemble the most famous big cats of all. That’s right, it is possible to meet dogs that look like lions. Despite the fact that dogs and cats last common ancestor lived 42 million years ago, some modern dog breeds have the thick manes, fierce temperament, or golden fur of their distant lion cousins – not unlike how there are dogs that look like wolves and dogs that look like foxes. These leonine pooches aren’t all enormous, either; some will fit in your apartment! Whether you want a lion dog who will defend your home, play with your kids, or snuggle with you on the couch, there’s a dog that looks like a lion out there for you.

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We’ll start with the most famous lion-dog of all: the Chow Chow. An ancient breed from China, it’s easy to see why this fluffy fellow tops the list of dogs that look like lions. Chows thick fur and small, rounded ears give them a distinctly leonine appearance. They are known for their fastidious cleanliness (like cats!), aloofness, and blue tongues. Chows are also recognisable by their snobby expressions; these dogs were companions to emperors and nobles, so they are not easily impressed. However, once you have their love, they are loyal for life.

This dog’s name is actually German for “little lion,” named for both their flowing mane and their lion-like bravery. This breed has been popular in Europe for centuries because of its lively and affectionate nature and non-shedding coat, traditionally kept in a “lion clip” with close-cropped hindquarters and a plumed tail. For the apartment-dwelling lion-lover, a Löwchen is a great choice.

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It’s easy to see why these gorgeous giants made the list of dogs that look like lions. Standing around 90cm tall, and weighing as much as a human, the Leonberger is friendly, playful and surprisingly gentle for their size. Their long coat extends into a beautiful leonine mane around the neck and chest. They require a lot of brushing, but like other double-coated dogs should never be shaved, as it actually helps them cool off.

There is a Chinese legend detailing the origins of this little lion dog. Long ago, a lion fell in love with a marmoset monkey. The lion begged the Buddha to shrink him so that he could be with his much smaller love, and the Buddha obliged. Thus we have the Pekingese, a small dog breed that looks like both a lion and a monkey! It’s the neck ruff that most makes these dogs look like lions. Pekingese are known for their waddling walk and immense dignity. They usually attach themselves to one person in the household, so if you want a devoted lion companion, this cutie might be a good choice.

Sporting an extremely dense coat to cope with the harsh winters of their mountain home, the Tibetan Mastiff is one of the ultimate guard dog breeds. Massive yet agile, these intelligent giants are friendly and affectionate with their families. Their thick coats that give them their lion-like appearance actually don’t require much brushing except for their annual summer molt. When it comes to having a pet lion, you could do a lot worse than one of these sweeties.

Now, you may not immediately think “lion!” when you see the 3.6kg Chinese Crested trotting sweetly along, but take a look at that mane and tail. This breed comes in two varieties: hairless and powderpuff, or completely covered with long, thick hair. Both of them have that fluffy mane and tail tuft that got them onto the list of dogs that look like lions. Cresteds are playful, loving, and loyal, making them great family dogs.

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If lions came in brown or black, they would look like Newfoundlands. Newfies are known for being the sweetest dogs around, often called the “nanny dog” because they are so good with children. Their large size and thick fur, however, earns them a place on the list of dogs that look like lions. Like their big cat cousins, Newfies love water – in fact, they are natural swimmers, born with partially webbed feet. Newfies have taken part in many a water rescue, working as shipboard dogs for Canadian fisherman. If you’ve got kids and live near a lake, definitely consider making a Newfoundland part of your family!

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This little guy is only 15cms tall weighs only 1.3 to three kilograms, but Poms cannot be left off any list of dogs that look like lions. Their expansive orange ruffs and absolute self-confidence mean that they carry themselves like a much bigger dog – like a dog the size of a lion, perhaps? Intelligent and lively, these little lions are loyal and easily trained. As Queen Elizabeth II is to corgis, so Queen Victoria was to Pomeranians, owning dozens of Poms over her lifetime and spreading their popularity. It makes sense, though; the lion is the national animal of England!

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Source: RD.com