Chow Chow Dog Breed Information

Chow Chow Coat

The Chow Chow has an abundant and profuse double coat that comes in two different varieties: smooth or rough. The fur is particularly thick around the neck area and resembles a lion's mane. The outer coat is coarse and is supported by a dense under coat. The most common coat colors are red, black, blue, tan, and gray. They are never parti-colored. The Chow is a heavy seasonal shedder.

Chow Chow Character

The Chow Chow is a true masterpiece of dignity and beauty. They possess the unique characteristic of having a blue-black tongue. They are keenly intelligent, have an independent spirit, and display a dignified demeanor. The Chow is extremely aloof and discerning.

Chow Chow Temperament

The Chow Chow is most generally polite and patient. They are very loyal and friendly with their family, but exceedingly reserved with strangers. They most often will become attached and overly protective of one particular member of the family. They are bossy, serious, and obstinate. The Chow Chow is a very dominant breed that requires a dominant owner. They are stubborn and have a mind of their own. They are not good with other pets unless they have been raised with them from an early age. They get along well with older well-behaved children. The Chow expects to be treated with respect.

Chow Chow Care

The Chow Chow requires daily brushing. Proper grooming is essential to keep their coat in peak condition. Bathe or dry shampoo as necessary. They have a very low tolerance to anesthesia. The Chow does not do well in warm climates.

Chow Chow Activity

The Chow Chow has a tendency to be lazy. They prefer to stay indoors where they are relatively inactive. They enjoy a small securely fenced yard, but cannot remain outside for extended periods of time in hot weather. They benefit from short daily walks. The Chow is well suited for apartment dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise.

Chow Chow Health and Life Expectancy

The life expectancy of the Chow Chow is around 8-12 years, and there is a number of health problems associated with this breed. This includes allergies, skin conditions, sensitivity to chemicals and medications, glaucoma, entropion, thyroid problems, and renal cortical hypoplasia. The parents of the Chow Chow puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates.