Chow Chow

The Chow Chow is a breed that stands out with its lush, dense double coat and the distinctive blackish-blue tongue, a characteristic it shares with the Shar Pei. Initially bred for roles such as hunting, herding, and guarding, these dogs have transitioned into loyal companions for those who can cater to their specific physical and mental requirements. Their unique blend of aloofness and intense loyalty gives them a temperament unlike most other dogs.

These medium-sized dogs boast a compact and sturdy frame, with rough-coated varieties featuring a mane reminiscent of a lion's and an air of dignity often highlighted by their typical scowling expression, courtesy of their forward-leaning ears. Intelligent and independent by nature, Chow Chows form strong attachments to a single person while remaining reserved and cautious around strangers. They are best suited for seasoned dog owners who appreciate the necessity of early, consistent socialization and firm, patient training.

Prospective owners should be prepared for daily moderate exercise, regular mental challenges, and diligent grooming to maintain the health of their skin and luxurious coats. Chow Chows flourish in homes with secure backyards and prefer environments where someone is frequently present, as they can suffer from separation anxiety. Their adaptability to apartment living is limited due to their need for space and preference for routine and strong leadership.

Ideal Companions For

Experienced dog enthusiasts seeking a steadfast, distinctive companion with moderate exercise needs and a calm, protective nature. Those with secure yards and households where someone is often home will find this breed particularly rewarding. Families familiar with assertive dog breeds that demand constant mental engagement and firm handling will appreciate the Chow Chow’s dignified demeanor.

Considerations

Not recommended for novice dog owners due to their independent and sometimes obstinate nature coupled with strong protective instincts. They require early and consistent socialization and training to prevent behavioral problems. Grooming demands are significant, with substantial shedding, particularly in spring and fall. If left alone frequently, separation anxiety can become an issue, making them less suited for busy households with long absences.

The Chow Chow traces its roots back to ancient China, with a rich history spanning thousands of years. Archaeological findings and historical documentation suggest the breed's existence as early as the 11th Century BC. Early depictions highlight dogs with thick coats and their signature blackish-blue tongues. Some experts propose the breed arrived in China via Mongol invasions around 3,000 years ago, with connections to Tibetan monasteries where blue-coated dogs with similar traits were bred. The Chow Chow shares ancient lineage with northern breeds such as the Samoyed, Norwegian Elkhound, Keeshond, and Pomeranian, reflecting migration through Arctic and Siberian regions into China.

Early Development

The Chow Chow was initially bred for diverse roles including hunting wolves and leopards, herding livestock, guarding property, and even pulling sleds during harsh winters. Accounts from the 7th Century describe Chinese emperors owning thousands of these dogs, valued for their loyalty, strength, and thick fur. Their distinctive lion-like mane and broad features were likely enhanced through selective breeding to boost their power and guarding instincts.

Modern Recognition

The breed remained relatively obscure outside China until European explorers in the 18th century introduced specimens to the West. In Britain, a Chow Chow was presented to Queen Victoria in 1865, gaining royal favor and boosting breed popularity. Enthusiasts like the Marchioness of Huntley and Lady Faudel Philips established dedicated breeding programs and exhibitions in the late 19th century. This led to the founding of the Chow Chow Club in 1895, which formalized breed standards and promoted responsible breeding practices in the UK. Today, Chow Chows are globally admired for their unique appearance and unwavering loyalty, though they require knowledgeable handling.

Dimensions and Structure

Chow Chows are medium-sized, robust canines with males standing between 17 to 20 inches at the withers and females slightly smaller. Males typically weigh between 55 to 70 pounds, while females range from 45 to 60 pounds. Their physique is compact and square, with heavily muscled bodies. The broad head features a moderate-length muzzle, a large black nose (lighter in cream or white dogs), and a strong, slightly arched neck presenting a proud stance. Their shoulders slope gently with straight, heavily boned front legs, a deep chest with well-sprung ribs, and powerful hindquarters with muscular thighs.

Fur and Coloration

The breed showcases two primary coat types: rough and smooth. Rough coats are thick, dense, and straight, standing away from the body, with a coarse outer layer and soft, woolly undercoat. These feature a pronounced lion-like mane and feathering on the thighs that resemble breeches. Smooth coats are shorter but still dense with a plush, upright fur texture. Recognized coat colors include black, blue, cream, fawn, red, self-red, shaded red, and white.

Unique Characteristics

The hallmark blackish-blue tongue, shared only with the Shar Pei, distinguishes the breed instantly. Their small, thick ears tilt slightly forward and are set widely apart, lending a permanent scowling expression. Oval, dark eyes contribute to a dignified look, except in blue or fawn-coated dogs where eye color matches the coat. They carry their tails high and curled over the back. Their gait is distinct with a short, pendulum-like stride where back feet skim the ground and front and hind legs move parallel.

Gender Variations

Males are larger and heavier with a more pronounced mane on rough-coated individuals. Females appear lighter and more refined but retain all key breed characteristics. Males may be slightly more territorial, while females tend to show greater tolerance, particularly within family groups, although there is individual variability.

Primary Personality Traits

The Chow Chow is renowned for its independent, dignified demeanor, often compared to a cat’s in its reserved affection and confident nature. They form the strongest bonds with one person and tend to be aloof or stand-offish towards strangers. Their protective instincts make them excellent watchdogs; however, early and consistent socialization is critical to prevent over-guarding or fearfulness.

Social Interactions

Chows typically form close bonds with one family member but can become affectionate towards other household members if socialized properly. They are generally wary and suspicious of newcomers, though patience and gradual introduction often improve their social adaptability. They may exhibit dominance or territorial behavior towards other dogs and can be unsuitable for homes with small pets unless socialized early.

Instinctual Behaviors

Originating as hunting, guarding, and herding dogs, Chow Chows retain a strong prey drive that motivates attentiveness and chasing instincts. Owners must be vigilant when off-lead near livestock or wildlife. Their natural guarding tendencies reflect their historic roles as protectors of property and family.

Common Behavioral Issues

Their stubbornness and independent streak can make training demanding. Without firm leadership, they may show dominant behaviors like resource guarding or selective obedience. Separation anxiety is common due to their strong attachment to their person. Although generally quiet, they can bark excessively if they sense a threat. Owners report that consistent, calm management helps mitigate these challenges.

Training a Chow Chow requires patience, consistency, and an understanding of their unique temperament. While highly intelligent, they have a stubborn side and a need to comprehend the reasoning behind commands. Positive reinforcement using rewards, praise, and gentle guidance is most effective, as harsh methods damage trust and compliance.

Puppy Training Essentials

Early training is crucial, focusing on obedience and socialization during the first six months to curb dominant tendencies and build confidence around people, animals, and environments. Foundational commands should include Come, Sit, Stay, Quiet, Leave It, Down, and Bed to establish control and good manners.

Effective Training Techniques

Short, engaging sessions are best, with clear and consistent commands. Chow Chows respond favorably to positive, reward-based techniques that challenge their intelligence and motivate through treats and praise. Controlled socialization reduces distrust of strangers and other dogs.

Advanced Training Opportunities

Though not typically excelling in highly active work roles, Chow Chows can succeed in obedience, tracking, and therapy dog work when guided by experienced handlers. They prefer activities stimulating their minds over intense physical exertion.

Training Pitfalls

Expecting rapid obedience, using harsh corrections, inconsistent rules, or neglecting early socialization often leads to behavioral problems such as stubbornness, aggression, or anxiety. Owners must commit long-term to firm but fair guidance to maintain well-mannered Chows. Expected milestones include puppy house training by 5-6 months and progressing to basic obedience with lifelong reinforcement.

Age-Appropriate Interactions

Chow Chows can be excellent companions for children if socialized and raised together. Their size and aloof nature make supervision essential when around toddlers or very young children to prevent accidental injury or distress. Older children and teenagers who understand dog etiquette often develop strong, respectful bonds with Chows.

Teaching Children How to Interact

Children should learn to approach the Chow calmly, avoiding sudden movements and loud noises, and respect the dog’s space, especially during rest or feeding. Teaching recognition of stress or discomfort signals helps avoid unintentional provocation that could lead to defensive behaviors.

Considerations for the Breed

The breed’s aloof and independent temperament requires patient handling and respect from children. Protective instincts may cause wariness around unfamiliar youngsters, necessitating gradual introduction and ongoing socialization. The Chow’s powerful build means boisterous play must be carefully supervised to prevent accidental harm.

Ensuring Safe Interactions

Adult supervision is crucial during all child-dog interactions to preserve calm and safety. Providing the Chow with a quiet retreat area where children are taught not to disturb helps reduce stress. Shared positive activities encourage family bonding and confidence around the dog.

Health Concerns Specific to the Breed

The Chow Chow is susceptible to several hereditary and congenital health issues including entropion (eyelid rolling), eczema, bloat (gastric dilation volvulus), cruciate ligament ruptures, hypothyroidism, Addison's and Cushing's diseases, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), pemphigus foliaceus (autoimmune skin disorder), UveoDermatological syndrome, breathing difficulties, hip and elbow dysplasia, heatstroke susceptibility, and Alopecia X (hair loss). Prevalence varies, but responsible breeding significantly reduces risk.

Genetic Screening Recommendations

The Kennel Club and British Veterinary Association recommend mandatory screening for hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as eye tests before breeding. Genetic tests for thyroid function and autoimmune diseases are advised. The Chow Chow Breed Council offers a Bronze Health Assessment to monitor breeding stock health, fostering genetic diversity and minimizing hereditary disease incidence.

Preventive Health Care

Puppies should receive vaccinations at 10-12 weeks with boosters as vet-recommended. Annual health checks and parasite control are essential. Owners must watch for early warning signs of bloat, skin infections, and joint problems, promptly consulting vets as needed. Weight management and moderated exercise help prevent orthopedic issues.

Insurance Considerations

Insuring a Chow Chow involves consideration of breed predispositions, with basic policies averaging $60 monthly and comprehensive lifelong cover exceeding $180. Coverage that includes hereditary conditions is recommended to manage potential veterinary expenses linked to breed vulnerabilities.

Daily Care Needs

Chow Chows require a structured daily routine involving feeding, grooming, exercise, and mental stimulation. Mornings typically include a moderate 20-30 minute walk followed by feeding and grooming checks focusing on ears and coat. Afternoons and evenings feature shorter walks and mental activities such as training reinforcement or puzzle toys. Consistent hydration and a calm resting area support wellbeing.

Living Conditions

They thrive in homes with secure gardens that allow safe roaming and exploration, being unsuitable for apartment living due to exercise and space needs. Fencing must be secure to contain their curious and protective nature. They adapt to urban or rural settings if their guarding tendencies and social requirements are met.

Seasonal Adjustments

Due to their dense double coat, they need precautions to avoid heatstroke in summer with early morning or late evening walks and constant access to shade and water. Shedding intensifies in spring and autumn requiring enhanced grooming. Winter care includes monitoring coat condition and limiting exposure to extreme cold.

Senior Care

Older Chow Chows need diets tailored for lower fat and easy digestibility, joint supplements, and reduced but regular exercise to sustain muscle without stress. Comfortable bedding, warmth, and mental engagement help manage arthritis and cognitive changes. Gentle handling and supportive care are essential for aging dogs.

Maintaining the Coat

Weekly brushing is crucial to prevent mats and tangles, particularly in rough-coated Chow Chows with their dense undercoat. During heavy shedding seasons—spring and autumn—daily grooming is advised to manage loose hair. Routine ear cleaning and dental care support overall health and hygiene.

Professional Grooming Needs

Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks maintains coat health, manages shedding, and includes thorough skin inspections. Experienced groomers avoid drying boxes to prevent overheating. Trims focus on hygiene rather than styling, preserving the coat’s natural texture and volume.

Home Grooming Practices

Regular use of slicker brushes, grooming gloves, and de-shedding tools supports coat health. Nail trimming, ear inspections, and tooth brushing should occur weekly. Baths require careful drying with towels rather than dryers to protect delicate skin and coat structure.

Challenges in Grooming

Challenges include matting behind ears and around the mane, skin irritations from drooling, and eczema-like reactions. Managing seasonal shedding demands patience and thorough hair removal techniques to prevent discomfort. Vigilance for skin infections or dryness is necessary to intervene early.

Exercise Needs

Chow Chows require moderate daily exercise of around 40 to 60 minutes, a blend of physical walks and mental stimulation. Puppies need limited activity to protect developing joints, so brief walks and gentle play are suitable. Adults enjoy calm, exploratory walks in secure gardens and light play sessions.

Recommended Activities

Activities like gentle hiking, scent tracking, and obedience games that engage intellectual curiosity are ideal. Chows are less inclined for high-intensity fetch or chase games but thrive when mentally challenged by puzzle toys and varied training.

Exercise Limitations

Puppies should avoid rigorous activity and jumping to reduce joint injury risk. Heat sensitivity requires adjusted outdoor times in summer to early morning or late evening. Older or arthritic dogs benefit from low-impact exercise and avoided sudden exertion to protect joints.

Mental Stimulation

Incorporating interactive puzzle feeders, basic agility challenges, scent games, and regular training refreshers keep the Chow mentally sharp and less prone to boredom-related behaviors. Short daily sessions are preferable for sustained engagement.

Dietary Needs

The Chow Chow needs a balanced diet suited to medium-sized dogs with moderate activity. Nutritionally, protein content should be 20-25%, fats 10-15%, with minimal fillers to support muscle development and coat health. Puppies require nutrient-dense growth formulas, while seniors benefit from lower calorie diets enriched with joint-support nutrients.

Feeding Routine

Feed puppies 3-4 times daily up to six months, then transition to twice daily for adults. Portion control is critical to prevent obesity, supplying amounts appropriate to body condition. Adults should avoid feeding before or after exercise to reduce bloat risk common in deep-chested breeds.

Special Diet Considerations

Introduce diet changes gradually to prevent digestive upset. Breed predispositions to sensitive skin and allergies necessitate ingredient awareness. Supplements like omega fatty acids, glucosamine, and probiotics aid skin and joint health.

Weight Control

Due to Chow Chow’s tendency to gain weight easily, regular body condition scoring and waist measurement are important. Treats should be minimal, nutritious, and balanced with exercise to prevent obesity-related health issues.

Initial Purchase Cost

In the United States, well-bred pedigree Chow Chow puppies typically range from $1,000 to $2,500 depending on breeder type, lineage, coat type, and conformation quality. Individual breeders usually offer puppies between $1,000 and $2,000, while licensed breeders range from $1,200 to $2,500. Show-quality puppies and rare coat colors may command premium prices within this range.

Initial Setup Expenses

Initial investments include high-quality crates, collars, leashes, grooming tools, feeding bowls, puppy gates or playpens, and bedding, costing between $200 and $400 depending on quality and brand.

Monthly Maintenance Costs

Monthly upkeep involves premium dog food costing around $50 to $80, grooming essentials, parasite control, and basic health insurance. Basic insurance averages about $60 per month, with comprehensive or lifetime policies exceeding $180 monthly. Routine vet visits and preventative care add to these costs.

Lifetime Financial Commitment

Owners should budget approximately $1,500 or more annually for vet care, insurance, grooming, nutrition, and training, bearing in mind potential extra expenses due to breed-specific health issues. Overall monthly costs range from $120 to $220 depending on lifestyle and insurance levels.

To explore current availability, you can find Chow Chow for sale on Lancaster Puppies.

When considering bringing a Chow Chow into your home, it is crucial to seek out responsible breeders who prioritize health and temperament. The Lancaster Puppies marketplace provides a platform where reputable breeders and rescue organizations offer available puppies.

Identifying Ethical Breeders

Ensure breeders provide full access to puppies with their mothers in a clean, nurturing environment. Inquire about health testing, socialization routines, and bloodlines. Beware of poor-quality or online-only sales promising low prices without home visits. Confirm breeder adherence to Kennel Club regulations including litter size limits and age requirements.

Health Test Verification

Verify that both parents have undergone mandatory BVA/KC hip and elbow dysplasia screenings plus eye examinations. Responsible breeders also conduct thyroid function and autoimmune tests and participate in the Chow Chow Breed Council Bronze Health Assessment to reduce hereditary disease prevalence. Request official certificates and registration documentation.

Choosing the Right Puppy

Choose puppies displaying confidence, curiosity, and balanced social behavior without undue shyness or aggression. Ensure current vet health checks, worming, and vaccinations. Observe interactions with littermates and humans to assess temperament suitability for your home.

Reviewing Contracts and Guarantees

Obtain a signed contract detailing vaccination status, microchipping, health guarantees, and return policies. Look for clauses restricting breeding rights and requiring ongoing care. Avoid sellers lacking clear, written agreements or those unwilling to comply with established ethical standards.

Rescue and Adoption

Consider breed-specific rescues in the US offering well-socialized Chows needing forever homes. Adoption is a valuable alternative that supports breed welfare and responsible ownership.