
The Chow Chow is a captivating and unique breed with a distinctive lion-like appearance and captivating personality.
Known for its fluffy coat and striking blue-black tongue, this dog exudes a sense of nobility and charm.
With roots tracing back to ancient China, the Chow Chow has served various roles throughout history, from guarding royal palaces to acting as loyal companions.
Their independent spirit and strong-willed nature make them both intriguing and challenging, appealing to those who seek a dog with character and depth. Whether as a watchful protector or a cuddly family pet, the dog offers a blend of beauty and companionability that is hard to resist.
The breed is as old as human civilization. Though no one knows its exact origin, historians and cynologists suggest it originated in China around 206 BC.
From their appearance, the dogs somehow look like a mixture of a Chinese Shar-pei and a teddy bear.
In ancient times, the dogs were considered hardheaded, obstinate, and stubborn. Therefore, pet owners were reluctant to choose the breed as the family pet.
Over time, however, the breed proved to be a fiercely loyal companion. They are a dignified, strong-willed, alert, robust, sturdy, squarely built, but intelligent dog breed.
So, if you’re looking for an extroverted, playful pooch, a Chow Chow may not be the right choice.
Breed characteristics
The breed is characterized by its thick coats, which come in several colors, such as cinnamon, black, cream, or blue; however, the red coat is the most common.
The dog’s tongue with a blue tint gives it a unique look. The dogs stand 18 to 22 inches tall and weigh 45 to 70 pounds.
The dogs have a double coat and can survive the coldest temperatures.
While the dog’s downturned lips suggest a highly aggressive and angry breed, the dogs aren’t. They are, however, a protective breed that makes good watchdogs.
The dogs are intelligent but can be stubborn and difficult to train.
What is an ideal age to adopt?
The ideal age to adopt a Chow Chow is when he is a puppy, so you will have plenty of time to socialize your dog with friends, neighbors, and children.
Although the dogs are friendly with children, as a responsible parent and a dog owner, you should never leave your child unattended with any dog.
Grooming needs
No matter what breed you adopt, grooming is crucial to keep your dog happy and healthy. The breed is relatively high maintenance and requires proper grooming.
Hair brushing and shampooing
The dogs have two coat types: rough and smooth.
Both are double-coated with wooly undercoats and need timely brushing and shampooing. Since the dogs are heavy shedders, they require regular brushing and shampooing.
The rough-coat dog features a thick, fluffy double coat with a longer, soft outer layer that gives it a lion-like mane around the neck and shoulders. Its fur is dense and requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles.
The smooth coat variety has a shorter, close-lying coat that is sleek and less dense. This coat type gives the dog a more streamlined appearance and requires less grooming.
Both types share the same physical structure and characteristics, but the coat differences significantly affect their grooming needs and overall look.
Teeth brushing
The dogs require a protein-rich diet, so the chance of accumulated plaque and tartar is high. Therefore, you should brush your pooch’s teeth twice daily with a toothbrush and toothpaste designed for dogs to prevent periodontal diseases.
Periodontal diseases must be avoided, which can cause bad breath, gum swelling, inflammation, bleeding, or tooth loss.
Nail clipping
No dog enjoys getting his nails trimmed, so you must be careful while doing so. One thing to note with Chow Chows is that the toenails of their rear feet grow much slower than the front.
Therefore, they should be appropriately examined and their nails regularly trimmed to keep them healthy and clean.
Home environment
Since dogs have a super thick coat, they don’t like hot and humid temperatures.
Therefore, continuously monitor your dog’s body temperature and keep him indoors. Avoid confining your dog in a small, enclosed space.
Be sure to walk your dog regularly.
Never leave your pooch unsupervised. The dogs can become aggressive and might harm other pets.
Health conditions
Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)
The dogs are at risk for bloat, a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists.
Symptoms include restlessness, a swollen abdomen, and signs of distress.
Immediate veterinary attention is necessary if you suspect bloat.
Elbow dysplasia
Like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia is another orthopedic issue that involves improper development of the elbow joint, which can lead to lameness and pain.
Early diagnosis through radiographs can assist in managing the condition.
Entropion
The breed is particularly susceptible to entropion, a condition in which the eyelids roll inward, causing the lashes to irritate the eye. This can lead to serious complications, including corneal damage, and surgical correction is often necessary.
Hip dysplasia
This is a common condition in many large breeds and occurs when the hip joint doesn’t fit snugly into the hip socket, leading to arthritis or pain. Regular check-ups and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage this condition.
Hypothyroidism
This endocrine disorder affects the dog’s metabolism. Symptoms may include weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems.
A blood test can diagnose the condition, which is manageable with medication.
Obesity
Like many dog breeds, Chow Chows can gain weight if not properly managed.
Obesity can exacerbate many health issues and decrease lifespan. A balanced diet and regular exercise are essential to maintaining a healthy weight.
Skin issues
The thick fur and unique skin folds of Chow Chows can predispose them to skin infections and conditions like dermatitis.
Regular grooming and maintaining proper hygiene are crucial to prevent these skin issues.
Dietary needs
Chows have specific nutrition requirements.
Here are some essential considerations:
High-quality dog food
Choose a high-quality dog food that lists real meat as the first ingredient.
Chow Chows require a protein-rich diet to support their muscular build and overall health.
Look for options that contain high-quality protein sources like chicken, beef, or fish.
Balanced nutrients
Ensure the food is well-balanced, containing carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Omega fatty acids, particularly Omega-3 and Omega-6, benefit their coat and skin health.
Age-appropriate diet
Chow Chows have different nutritional needs at various life stages.
Puppies require a diet formulated for growth, while adults need maintenance food. Older dogs may benefit from a diet designed for them, which typically has lower calories and added joint support.
Portion control
These dogs are prone to obesity, so controlling portion sizes and providing regular meals instead of free-feeding is essential.
Follow the feeding guidelines on the dog food packaging, adjusting as necessary based on the dog’s weight, age, and activity level.
Limit human food
Chow Chows have sensitive stomachs, and many human foods can be harmful. Avoid giving them table scraps or foods toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, onions, and garlic.
If you give them fruits and vegetables, limit them to occasional snacks.
Hydration
Always ensure fresh water is available, as hydration is crucial for their health.
Chow Chows can be prone to heat sensitivity, so keeping them hydrated is particularly important during warmer months.
Consult your veterinarian
It’s best to consult a veterinarian to determine the appropriate diet tailored for your Chow Chow’s specific needs, considering any health issues they may have.
A balanced, nutritious diet can help ensure your dog leads a healthy and happy life.
Chow chow training needs
This breed is known for its independent and sometimes stubborn personalities.
Training requires patience, consistency, and understanding of the dog’s unique temperament.
Here are some practical tips for training this distinctive breed:
Start early
Begin training as early as possible. Puppies are more receptive to learning new commands and behaviors, and early socialization is crucial to helping them become well-adjusted adults.
Use positive reinforcement
The dogs respond best to positive reinforcement techniques.
Use treats, praise, and playtime to reward good behavior. Avoid harsh discipline, leading to fear and a lack of trust.
Keep training sessions short and engaging
Due to their independent nature, Chow Chows may lose interest in extended training sessions.
Aim for short, focused training periods of about 5-10 minutes, gradually increasing the duration as the dog becomes more comfortable.
Be consistent
Consistency is vital. Use the same commands and signals each time you train.
This helps your dog understand what you expect from them and reinforces learning.
Establish yourself as the leader
This breed is known for loyalty but can also exhibit dominant behaviors.
Establishing yourself as a calm and assertive leader from the beginning is essential. This can help discourage stubbornness.
Socialization is necessary
Expose your dog to various environments, people, and other animals.
Proper socialization helps reduce territorial and aggressive behavior as the dog grows older.
Make training fun
Add play and games into training sessions.
This can help keep your dog engaged and make learning feel more like a fun activity than a chore.
Be patient
Training this breed may take longer than other breeds due to their strong-willed nature. Maintain patience and don’t get discouraged; every small victory is a step towards progress.
Address behavior problems early
If you notice any issues, such as excessive barking or aggression, address them immediately. Early intervention can prevent behaviors from becoming ingrained.
Seek professional help if needed
If you encounter persistent challenges, consider seeking the assistance of a professional dog trainer with experience with this breed.
They can provide tailored guidance and support.
Finding a reputable breeder or rescue
Finding a reputable breeder or rescue organization is essential to bringing home a healthy and well-socialized dog.
Here are some steps to help you search:
Research online
Start by searching breeders and rescue organizations in your area. Websites like the American Kennel Club (AKC) offer breeder referrals and guidelines.
You can also find breed-specific rescue groups through a simple online search.
Check reviews and testimonials
Look for reviews from previous customers or adopters. Websites like Google, Facebook, or dedicated pet forums can provide insights into other people’s experiences with specific breeders or rescue organizations.
Visit in person
Once you identify potential breeders or rescues, arrange to visit their facilities.
A reputable breeder will be open to meetings, allowing you to see how the dogs are raised.
For rescues, visiting allows you to gauge the environment and meet the dogs available for adoption.
Ask questions
Engage with the breeder or rescue staff. Ask about their breeding practices, health screenings, socialization efforts, and the history of the puppies or dogs.
A responsible breeder should provide documentation and be transparent about any health issues in the lineage.
Inspect health certifications
Ensure the breeder provides health clearances for the puppies’ parents, including tests for common health issues within the breed.
If you are adopting from a rescue, inquire about any health assessments done on the dogs.
Evaluate commitment
A dedicated breeder or rescue organization typically has a thorough application process to ensure the right match between dog and owner.
They may also offer support after the adoption or sale, showing a commitment to the dog’s well-being.
Seek recommendations
Reach out to Chow Chow breed clubs or local veterinarians for recommendations. They often have insights into reputable breeders and rescues in your area.
Attend dog shows or events
Look for dog shows, meetups, or events featuring Chow Chows. These gatherings often attract reputable breeders and can connect you with knowledgeable individuals involved in the breed.
Final thoughts on Chow Chows
The breed might seem cute and friendly, but it is unsuitable for every household. If you are a novice handler, this breed is not for you. It is a one-person dog and needs an experienced handler.
If you choose a Chow Chow, use a pet name generator to find the perfect name for your dog.
Due to their thick coats, they are more prone to skin allergies than other breeds, so you should always take special care of their grooming needs.