Description

The Chow Chow is a member of the spitz family and has been native to China for more than 2000 years. The Chow Chow is a masterpiece of beauty and dignity, unique with its blue-black tongue. Chow Chow carries a reputation of been aggressive, but this is undeserved though he is a tenacious fighter if provoked. To their family they are friendly and faithful but strangers do beware, the Chow Chow is protective of his owner, family and territory, making him an excellent guard dog. Because of his thick coat he is unsuited for hot climates. New owners should be prepared for coat care and socialization of their new Chow Chow puppy. Chow Chows should not be left alone in the backyard.

Size of Male: Height: 17-20 inches Weight: 45-70 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 17-20 inches Weight: 45-65 pounds

Temperament

The Chow Chow is usually well-mannered, but can be willful and protective. Chow Chow is bossy, serious and very independent. Some Chow Chow are self-willed to the point of obstinacy. Often a one-person dog, very loyal to his family, though he may act reserved, even with them. If strangers push themselves on this dog, he may become aggressive. This very dominant breed requires a dominant owner. The owner of this breed of dog should be a calm person who is naturally fair and firm. With such a handler, the Chow Chows can develop well. Don’t expect great obedience from them. They are born stubborn and with minds of their own. The dogs can learn because they are certainly not stupid, but they must see the point of your command. Be consistent at all times. Some experts claim the short-haired Chow Chow is more active and learns faster than its longer-haired family member. Most Chow Chows like to dominate other dogs, but in contrast, they are quite good with children. If they get to know cats and other household animals when they are young, they will get along with them when they are adults. They must be extensively socialized when very young to combat potential over-protectiveness as an adult.

Living Conditions

The Chow Chow will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. Chow Chows are relatively inactive indoors and a small yard is sufficient. Chow Chows are also sensitive to heat, but can live in or outdoors.

Upkeep

The Chow Chow is an alert breed that needs regular, but not strenuous, outdoor activity. Chow Chow does not do well in hot humid weather. Chow Chow’s needs are best met with casual morning or evening walks in warm weather or several short play sessions throughout the day. It can live outdoors in temperate or cool weather, but it is best allowed to stay inside during warm weather. The smooth type needs brushing once weekly and the rough type needs brushing every other day, and daily when shedding.

Health

Major concerns: Hip dysplasia, Gastric torsion

Minor concerns: elbow dysplasia, cataract, distichiasis, persistant pupiliary membranes, stenotic nares, patellar luxation, elongated palate

Life expectancy: 8 – 15 years