Height: 17-20 inches
Weight: 45-70 lbs.
Life Span: 10-12 yrs.
Breed Group: Northern
Overview
The quiet, independent chow chow is a one-person dog. It is not very demonstrative
and can be aggressive, stubborn, and difficult to train.
Chows are reserved with strangers and have a tendency to bite; deep-set
eyes give these dogs poor peripheral vision, making them more likely to
bite if surprised from behind.
Early obedience classes and socialization with adults, children, and other
animals are very important. The chow will tolerate children when raised
with them but will not be playful.
Appearance
The chow chow's coat may be smooth or rough. The abundant outercoat is straight;
the undercoat is soft, thick, and woolly. Color is red, black, blue, cinnamon,
or cream.
Tongue is blue-black; feet are small; ears are thick and rounded. The tail
curls over the back.
Grooming & Exercise Needs
The rough-coated chow needs to be brushed daily; the smooth-coated variety
needs to be brushed a few times a week, daily when shedding. The chow is
content with short walks for exercise.
Origins
Developed in northern China over 2,000 years ago, the chow chow was used
for hunting, herding, pulling, protection of the home, and as a source of
food and fur.
Special Alerts
Chows require experienced owners prepared for a significant time commitment.
Find a breeder who breeds for temperament because chows can be aggressive.
Breed-related health concerns: hip dysplasia, entropion, hypothyroidism,
epilepsy, bloat.
Reference: AKC - American Kennel Club |
