Chow Chow Dog Breed: Characteristic, Health & Fun Facts!

The medium to large-sized Chow Chow dog is a dog breed that doesn’t like sports, from China that is renowned for its lion-like or bear-like look and its blue-black tongue. Its coat may be rough, or it may be smooth on this quiet and independent canine.

Chows with a rough coat have a soft, wooly undercoat and a medium-length, straight, thick, coarse, and highly full topcoat. They have thick, long “manes” around their heads and necks, as well as longer hairs (feathering) on their legs and tails.

Although it is significantly shorter, smooth chows also have a double coat. The majority of chows are devoted, quiet dogs that make wonderful friends, despite the breed’s somewhat unfavorable reputation for aggression.

Chow Chow Dog Breed

About The Breed

Due to their high levels of independence and aloofness, chow chows require owners who respect these qualities while maintaining control.

To make sure that Chows are secure and at ease as adults, they should be thoroughly socialized or exposed to different people, dogs, and circumstances beginning in early puppyhood.

Chow Chows can develop close relationships with just one person or their immediate family. They are wary of strangers.

Two to three times a week, brushing is required for chows to maintain a healthy coat.

Chows may live in condominiums or flats as long as they exercise every day.

The chow chow puppies’ deep-set eyes limit his field of view, so it’s better to approach him from the front.

Chow Chow Dog Breed History

With this dog breed’s origins in China reaching back to two hundred and six B.C., the chow chow is one of the oldest canine breeds.

Chows are different from the ancestry of all other dogs, according to a study of DNA, and are found to be part of the branch that also contains shar-pei dogs, Shiba Inu dogs, and Akita dogs. In Asia, they were known as guardians of temples.

Although the chow dog of today belongs to the non-sporting breed, bas-relief sculptures reveal that the breed was earlier primarily utilized for hunting purposes.

Chow Chow Dog Breed Job Card/Overview

Dog BreedChow Chow
Type of Dog BreedWorking Dogs
OriginChina
Height Seventeen to twenty inches 
WeightForty to seventy pounds
Expected lifespanTwelve to fifteen years
Coat TypeTough, thick, smooth exterior with no discernible ruff or feathering
Usual Huescrimson (which can range from bright golden to rich mahogany) (which can range from light golden to deep mahogany) Dark fawn to intense cinnamon, black, blue, and cream
Needs for groomingModerate
TemperamentCurious, happy, loving, enthusiastic, and devoted
Living in an apartmentFor apartment living, not recommended
Animal FriendlyNo
Requirements for ExerciseLow
Propensity to droolModerate
Level of IntelligenceLow
Level of StrengthModerate
ActivityLow
What To Know
• chow chow dog breeds are known for their unique personalities. They can be independent and reserved, making them loyal but not overly affectionate.
• Chow Chows have a thick double coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting. They are prone to shedding, especially during seasonal changes.
• These dogs need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. Regular walks and playtime are essential to keep them in good shape.
• chow chow dog breed may be aloof with strangers and other animals. Proper socialization from a young age can help them become more comfortable in various situations.
• Chow Chows are prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and entropion (an eye condition). Regular vet check-ups and a well-balanced diet can help maintain their well-being.

Characteristics 

Chow Chow Dog Breed


Adaptability  

Adaptability is a key thing in ensuring your puppy’s happiness. When it involves making modifications to your chow chow dog’s environment or routine, patience is vital. These dogs tend to select a consistent and solid way of life.

It’s essential to introduce alterations progressively and provide reassurance. Keep in thoughts that a few chow chow puppies might discover new conditions or people a chunk difficult. So, respecting their need for time to conform can help hold their consolation and well-being.

Adaptability  

Adaptive to Apartment Living

Suitable for New Owners

Sensitivity Scale

Comfortable Being Alone

Comfortable with Cold Weather

Comfortable with Hot Weather

Friendliness

When it involves expert friendliness in dogs, it’s essential to not forget that each dog has its specific personality. In the case of Chow Chows, their temperament is understood as being more reserved and unbiased.

They might not display affection in the same manner as a few other breeds, but this does not imply they can not form robust bonds with their proprietors.

It’s critical to give them space while needed, make certain right socialization, and be an affected person.

Over time, a chow chow dog breed can turn out to be a devoted and devoted companion, emphasizing the significance of respecting their individuality and giving them the time to construct beliefs.

All About Friendliness

Lovable with Family

Kid-Friendly

Dog-Friendly

Frank with strangers

Personality 

The chow chow is an intelligent, independent, and somewhat aloof dog with a propensity for dominance and protection.

Although the chow chow breed is undoubtedly not for everyone, it may be a wonderful addition to the proper household.

This breed is suitable for use as a guard dog or watchdog. The chow chow dog breed is often a one-person dog that is devoted to the primary owner.

Although a home with older children will be a better fit, the breed can get along with all family members with the right training and socialization—including children.

Temperament

Friendly with Children

Chow Chows could make outstanding partners for households with kids. Their calm demeanor and shielding nature regularly bring about a strong bond with kids. However, it is critical to educate kids on how to engage respectfully with these dogs, as chow chow puppies might not appreciate the difficult play. Always supervise their interactions to ensure certain safety for each kid and the dog.

Amicable to Other Pets

chowchow can coexist with other pets if brought well. Early socialization is key to assisting them get at the side of other animals. Keep in thoughts that their strong guarding instincts may lead to shielding conduct around other pets, so supervision at some stage in preliminary interactions is smart. With time and persistence, they can adapt properly to a multi-puppy household.

Barking Tendencies

Chow Chows tend to be quiet dogs. They do not bark excessively, making them appropriate for living in quieter neighborhoods. However, they’ll bark after they experience strangers or unusual activities, serving as effective watchful companions.

Possibilities of Staying Alone

Chow Chows are independent dogs and might tolerate some alone time. But, like all breeds, they want human interplay and intellectual stimulation. Leaving them by myself for lengthy intervals can result in boredom and separation anxiety. It’s really helpful to offer them toys and activities to keep them engaged when you’re no longer around, and not go away alone for extended periods if possible.

Pros And Cons Of The Chow Chow Dog Breed 

Pros

  • Cute and cuddly appearance.
  • Loyal and protective nature.
  • Low exercise needs.
  • Independent personality.
  • Minimal grooming requirements.

Cons

  • Can be aloof with strangers.
  • Prone to health issues.
  • Requires socialization early on.
  • Not very playful.
  • Heavy shedding in some seasons.

Male Vs. Female Attitude

Generally, male dogs may show off more territorial and dominant behaviors, at the same time as girls can be a piece more independent and nurturing. It’s essential to not forget that individual personalities vary, and education and socialization play an enormous role in a canine’s attitude.

Choosing a canine with the proper attitude in your lifestyle and possibilities is important, however regardless of gender, love and consistency in training are keys to having a properly-behaved and happy dog accomplice.

Chow Chow Dog Breed

Appearance

General Appearance

They sport a strong, compact frame with a lion-like ruff of fur around their neck. Their faces have a scrunched-up expression with an exceptional mane of fur. Chow Chows usually have a thick double coat that is available in various colors.

Their small, triangular ears stand erect, giving them an alert look. These puppies have a unique, rolling gait, which adds to their attraction.

Coat Color And Grooming

Chows can have either a rough or smooth coat. The typical appearance of the rough coat is thick and plentiful, standing off from the body like a parka.

A silky, dense undercoat made of wool lies beneath that outer coat, around the head and neck, where the hair is denser, a ruff or mane forms. The tail, which hangs over the back, has a lot of furs as well.

The exterior coat of the smooth-coated Chowchow is hard, thick, and smooth with no discernible ruff or feathering (longer hair on the ears, legs, tail, or body).

The coat is available in five hues for both types: cream, black, blue, cinnamon (from fawn to deep cinnamon), and red (which can range from light golden to deep mahogany).

These hues can be completely solid or completely solid with lighter hints in the feathering, tail, and ruff.

Avoid being lured into paying extra for purportedly uncommon or exotic hues when purchasing a puppy.

Although some breeders use fancy names like champagne, silver, lilac, chocolate, or white to describe their dogs’ colors, these are simply the standard hues. They don’t require a premium, and trustworthy breeders won’t try to add one.

Size

The Chow Chow Breeders weighs forty to seventy pounds and reaches seventeen to twenty inches tall at the shoulder.

Health 

The fabulous chow chow dog will live eight to twelve years in generally good health; however, they may be more susceptible to allergies and problems that include eyelid entropion and hip and elbow dysplasia.

Due to the genetic nature of hip and elbow dysplasia, a competent breeder will offer certificates of good health from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA).

The eyeball may itch as a result of the eyelid(s) rolling inward because of eyelid entropion. Your chow chow should visit a vet straight away if you find him scratching at his skin or scratching his eyes.

Health And Grooming Requirements

Shedding Quantity

Drooling Capability

Effortless to Groom

Overall Health

Capable of Gaining Weight

Size

Maintenance And Care

Regular grooming is necessary for coats of both textures, rough and silky. A chow has to be brushed a few times a week in between grooming treatments to keep its skin and coat healthy.

When they blow off their winter and summer coats in the spring and fall, chow chows are exceptionally heavy shedders.

Otherwise, they only occasionally shed throughout the year, and regular brushing should keep the house free of more hairballs.

Brushing your teeth regularly can help avoid oral health problems (and give you a close-up of that infamous blue tongue). His nails need to be cut short if you can hear them clicking on the floor.

Despite being enormous dogs, chow chows don’t need as much room as many other large dogs do.

They don’t require much exercise; a few fifteen-minute walks or one longer stroll per day would do. Schedule regular walks for him in the morning or the evening so that he won’t overheat from the sun’s harsh rays.

Food And Nutrition

Instead of putting food out all the time, keep your Chow in good form by feeding him two times a day.

Give him the hands-on and eye tests if you’re not sure if he’s obese or not. Look down at him first.

There should be a waist visible. After that, lay your hands on his back with your thumbs down his spine, and your fingers stretched outward.

Without exerting much pressure, you should be able to feel his ribs but not see them. He needs less food and more activity.

Exercise And Activity Level 

To ensure the excellent bodily and mental well-being of your dog associate, it is critical to understand when and how to manage their workout and pastime levels. First and essential, consistency is prime.

Regular each day workout is essential to preserve their fitness. Chow Chows gain from structured exercising routines, typically in the morning and nighttime while the weather is milder.

Their pastime must be mild and tailored to their age and health condition, stopping immoderate stress on joints. Playtime and interactive toys can help stimulate their minds.

Physical Requirements

Energy range

Intensity

Exercise Requirements

Capable for Playfulness

Trainability

When it comes to training your dog, timing is crucial. To ensure the best results, start training your pup as early as possible. Puppies are like sponges, absorbing information and learning quickly.

Keep training sessions short and engaging, focusing on positive reinforcement with treats and praise.

Chow Chows, like many dogs, respond well to consistency and patience. As your dog grows, keep training sessions fun and consistent, reinforcing good behavior and correcting unwanted actions. Remember, every dog is unique, so be adaptable in your training approach.

Trainability

Effortless to Train

Smartness

Capable for Mouthiness

Tendency to Attack Prey

Urge to Howl or Bark

Wanderlust Ability

Children And Other Pets

As with any dog, make sure it is your responsibility that kids know how to deal with a dog and pet your Chow.

When socialized and trained properly and slowly, chows may get along with cats and other dogs, particularly if they are exposed to them as little puppies. However, they work best with canines of the opposing sex; canines of the same sex might result in a fight.

Chow Chow Rescue Groups

Chow Chow breeders are occasionally purchased without a clear grasp of what it takes to be a Chow Chow owner, and as a result, these dogs frequently find themselves in the care of rescue organizations and require adoption or fostering.

Some Chows are rescued because their owners have passed away or divorced. A rescue organization is a fantastic place to start if you’re interested in adopting an adult Chow Chow that has already grown out of the destructive puppy period and may already be trained.

  • Adopt-A-Chow Rescue
  • Chow Chows to the Rescue
  • Chow Dog Rescue

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FAQs On chow chow Dog Breed…

Is a chow chow a suitable pet for an apartment?

A. Due to their peaceful nature and lack of desire for a yard to romp around in, chows may thrive in apartments.

Why is the tongue of a chow chow dog blue?

A. Typical pink tongues are present at birth in chow chows. The chow puppy’s tongue changes color as its eyes start to open. The tongue may change to blue, purple, or even black. The tongue may return to pink as the chow gets older. Nobody understands why this occurs other than the fact that chow chow tongues have additional colored cells that resemble pigmented skin cells. Knowing that your chow is probably not a purebred dog if its tongue has pink dots in the center of the hue is helpful.

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