Double Crufts glory for Northumberland ‘little lion dog’ Jacob as he takes Best in Breed prize

Double Best in Breed winner in the Lowchen group at Crufts, Jacob, with his owner Joanne Graham.

Six-year old Jacob won a Best in Breed award in his category at Crufts. He is a Lowchen, which means “little lion” in German, and is within the toy group at the competition, which is held in the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham.

His owner, Joanne Graham from the village of Whalton, was delighted with her dog’s achievement; particularly as this was the second time he has taken the prize.

Joanne, 52, said: “Jacob won Best in Breed in 2018, so I really didn’t expect to win again this year. At Crufts you just never know who you’re going to be competing against. Jacob beat 27 others in the class this year and I couldn’t be happier.”

Lowchens became popular in Europe in the 14th century as the ideal lap dog for well-to-do ladies, who needed extra warmth at night as well as protection.

“Little lion dogs”, as the name suggests, can be fiercely protective of their owners.

Jacob is typical a typical example. A loyal, intelligent “big dog in a little dog’s body”. He likes nothing more than snuggling up with Joanne at night, or going for a walk with his friend George, another of Joanne’s champion Lowchen.

The dogs have the run of a 10-acre farm.

Joanne explained: “Lowchens are not your typical toy breed as they need lots of exercise. They can run very fast and very far. I often end up “walking” the dogs off the quad bike.”