Chow Chows: A guide to dogs and puppies of the Chow Chow breed

The Chow Chow!

The Chow Chow is a solid, medium-sized dog that is known for its blue tongue and its nearly straight back legs, which makes their gait rather crooked. They are breed with lower than average energy, but a fairly strong will. They typically pick out a single master and can be known to be reserved around other family members. The head is wide and the ears small, and the body is deep. The ruff behind its head makes it look like a small lion. Their coat is dense and abundant and can either be smooth or rough, depending on the variety. Colors range from cream to red, black, and blue.

Some Quick Facts:

Life Expectancy:
10-14 years

Energy Level:
Below average.

Living Conditions:
Flexible. Sensitive to heat.

Barking:
Average

Exercise Needs:
Moderate daily walk.

Breed Group:
Non-Sporting

Size:
Medium

Height:
18 – 22 inches

Weight:
45 – 70 pounds

Standard Hair Colors:
Sable, other solid colors

National breed club:
The Chow Chow Club

Chow Chow Skills

The Chow Chow has been known to the Chinese for at least a thousand years. The exact origins are not clear but they are generally agreed to share some characteristics with the Spitz. The Chow Chow had been used in China for guarding and hunting and even eating; their coats were used for clothing and their flesh was considered a specialty. They were first introduced in the UK in the late 18th century. Today, they are a very popular breed for companion dogs and retain some of their ancient guarding skills.

Chow Chow Personality

The Chow Chow is very independent and can be aloof and reserved to strangers. Although they are considered a well-mannered breed, the Chow Chow can also become bossy and extremely wilfull. It is typically loyal to its master and owner although it can also be reserved with other family members. It has the ability to become very dominant; an owner that demonstrates leadership over the Chow Chow will get its respect. Of course, this depends on how well the Chow Chow has been socialized when it was younger. If socialized well, it will be a good companion for children and can adapt to other household pets.

Exercise Needs

The Chow Chow will do with brisk daily walks and with some romps in the yard or in the garden. It is not a high-energy breed and will not need a lot of exercise, just enough to keep it fit and healthy.

Living Conditions

The Chow Chow will do well with apartment living if it gets enough exercise outside. It is not that active inside and is also sensitive to heat.

Grooming Requirements

The Chow Chow requires regular grooming in order to prevent its thick coat from matting. Only dry shampoo its coat when necessary. The Chow Chow is known to shed, so be careful not to damage its coat during brushing and combing. To get the lion clip look favored by most owners, professional grooming is suggested.

Health Issues

As a breed, the Chow Chow can suffer from heat due to their thick coats if allowed to stay outside for too long. They are also susceptible to obesity, hip dysplasia, and entropion, an eyelid abnormality.

If you liked this dog…

...try looking at the Keeshond (pronounced kayz-hawnd), a member of the same breed group. It is similar in looks although it is friendlier and more affectionate than the Chow Chow.

 

Chow Chow Photos