All Dog Breeds >>Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is a sturdy dog with several distinctive features. Their chests are wide and deep, and their abdomens are strong and short in length. They have a broad, flat head and a wide muzzle that becomes narrower towards the nose. Their tongue is blue-black in color and their straight hind legs cause them to walk rather stiffly. Their ears are small and round, and their tail is covered with hair and is carried over their back. The Chow Chow has a thick, furry coat that exists in one of two varieties, smooth or rough. There is a huge ruff of hair behind the breed's head, resulting in a lion-like appearance. The most common colors for the Chow Chow's coat are solid red, blue, black, cinnamon, and cream. Other coat colors include tan, gray, and white. Lighter or darker shades may exist within this breed's coat, but the coat is never parti-colored.
Character
Although the Chow Chow is usually docile and well-mannered, he can also be strong-willed and protective. The breed is independent, bossy, and serious in nature. They are persistent to the point of being obstinate. They are loyal to their family, and they are often a one-person dog. They can be aggressive towards strangers they do not like, and they may act reserved in the company of people. They require an owner that is dominant- one who can administer firm and fair training. With proper training and socialization from an early age, the vast majority of Chow Chows grow up quite well. They are intelligent and are capable of learning, but they have to understand the purpose and reason for a command in order to do it. Consistency plays a key role in determining the temperament of this breed. While much success has been achieved, breeders are still working very hard to breed a Chow Chow with a loving, family-oriented temperament.
A chow chow is a very loyal, sincere dog that is very affectionate toward it's master. It does not accept muzzles and leashes gladly, but is otherwise polite, clean, and patient. The chow chow is a dog that needs plenty of early and consistent socialization. They can be good with people, but usually are a bit standoffish. It's best to be fair with this dog and they respond well to verbal correction. A firm leader that has plenty of patience is best.
Weight
45 – 70 pounds
General Health
The Chow Chow is prone to hip dysplasia. They are often susceptible to entropion, an eye irritation that can be fixed with surgery. The Chow Chow is a comparatively healthy breed with few major health concerns or issues. They typically live for about 15 years.
History
The build and bone structure of the Chow Chow is very similar to that of the oldest known fossilized dog remains that date back several millions of years. The breed has been known throughout China for thousands of years, where they were initially utilized as a hunter, boat guard, and cart puller. One Emperor was said to have kept 2500 pairs of Chow Chow. The fur of the Chow Chow has been used in the past to line coats, and the flesh of this breed was considered a delicacy in China. The Chow Chow was first brought to England by merchants in the late 1800's. The name was likely derived from the pidgin English word "chow-chow", a term that refers to a miscellany of things that were brought to England from the far east. Today, the Chow Chow is very popular throughout the United States as a companion dog.
Maintenance
The Chow Chow's long, thick coat needs regular brushing. They are heavy shedders during season, and extra care should be given to this breed's coat during this time. The Chow Chow should be shampooed only as necessary.
Ideal Environment
The Chow Chow is content to live in a small household or apartment if he is sufficiently exercised. They prefer to be as lazy as possible, but it's important for their health that they receive a sufficient amount of daily activity. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do fine with a small yard. They can live outside or inside, but they are sensitive to hot weather conditions.
Chow Chow Training
The Chow Chow is the hardest to train of all dog breeds. He learns new commands slower than all other breeds. You will need to be extra patient when Training him.