Description of the appearance, size, temperament, grooming tips, health concerns and other important facts about Chow Chow dogs.
Chow Chows have thick furry coats and straight hind legs that cause them to walk in a rather stilted manner. They are unique in that their tongues are blue-black in color. These dogs have coats of red, black, white, blue, cream, or fawn. Chow Chows always have solid colored coats but the color may vary in how light or dark it appears to be. The large ruff around their heads looks similar to a lion's mane. Male dogs are generally 18-23 inches (46-56 cm) tall and weigh about 50-65 pounds (23-29 kg). Females are slightly smaller averaging 18-22 inches (46-53 cm) in height and having an average weight of 45-60 pounds (20-27 kg).
These dogs are very strong-willed, which can make them very difficult to train. Positive reinforcement, firm commands, and lots of patience are needed to succeed in overcoming the obstinacy this breed displays. Some of these dogs resist collars and leashes while others respond well to using them. A well-bred and well-socialized Chow Chow can be an excellent family pet as they are by nature quite good around children who are not too rough with them. Chow Chows are typically one-person dogs and will remain very loyal to their families. They make excellent watchdogs and have a reputation of being ferocious. Watch these dogs around strangers as they may show signs of aggression
These dogs can live in apartments or condominiums if they are able to get lots of exercise but they are better suited for homes with yard that they can run and play in frequently. It is important to keep these dogs fit so they do not become lazy. Chow Chows do not do as well in hot climates or living outside in these climates since they have very thick coats and are very sensitive to the heat.
It is important for Chow Chow owners to keep these dogs well groomed by brushing their thick coats on a regular basis to prevent them from becoming matted. The hair should stand out in a fluffy appearance. Extra attention is required when these dogs shed heavily each season. Bathing is not usually necessary but dry shampoo treatments may be used occasionally.
Chow Chows can live to be 15 years old or so and have just a few health concerns. Hip & joint dysplasia and genetic eye disease such as entropion are health problems that some of these dogs are prone to. Before purchasing any dog, owners should check out the dog's medical history and/or have the pet examined by a veterinarian.
Chow Chows resemble Spitz-type dogs that have been found in fossilized remains that date back several million years. It is thought that this breed originally came from Mongolia or Siberia. It has been found in China for thousands of years as well and in that country it is used as a work dog. The Chinese people bred these dogs to hunt, pull carts and guard boats. Some people even used the Chow Chows fur to trim coats. In the late 1800s these dogs made their first appearance in Europe by entering on merchant ships. Today's Chow Chow dogs are popular in the United States as watchdogs, guard dogs, and family pets.
