The Chow Chow Guide

A blue tongue and scowling expression are just two of the unique characteristics that set the Chow Chow apart. This ancient breed is low-energy, however, will require an owner with experience who can understand its temperament.

Quick Stats

Group: Non-Sporting

Size: Medium

Height: 17-20 inches (43.2-50.8cm.)

Weight: 45-70 pounds (20-32 kg.)

Shedding: Heavy

Grooming: Difficult

Lifespan: 10-12 years

Chow Chow History

An ancient dog breed, the Chow Chow originated in China. It has been in existence for at least two thousand years. We know this because of pottery and sculptures dating back that far which show images of the breed. However, it is speculated to be even older.

It was used to guard livestock, for hunting, and to pull sleds. These were working animals and therefore not bred for a friendly temperament. Peasants also used them for their meat while their coats were used to make clothing.

The Chow Chow was treasured by Chinese emperors and royalty. Yet it did not make its first appearance in the West until it was brought to England on the boats of spice trading merchants in the late eighteenth century.

The popularity of the breed grew from there. In fact, one was given to the Prince of Wales who went on to become King Edward VII. Later on, Queen Victoria owned a Chow as well which also helped to boost the breed’s notoriety.

Chow Chow Characteristics

The Chow Chow stands between seventeen and twenty inches tall and weighs between forty-five and seventy pounds. It has a large head that is lion-like in appearance with a scowling or frowning expression. The ears are small, triangular, and forward-facing and the eyes are almond-shaped.

The tail is covered with thick hair and carried over the dog’s back. The tongue, lips, gums, and inside of the mouth are blue-black (purple) in color. The Chow Chow coat actually comes in two types the rough and smooth.

The rough coat is the most common and is made up of straight, long, rough hairs. The smooth coat is shorter and is also dense, hard, and smooth. Both coat types have a thick undercoat. There are five acceptable coat colors: cream, red, cinnamon, blue, and black,

Chow Chow Health

As with all dog types, this breed is known to be affected by certain health conditions. The most common Chow Chow health problems include:

-hip dysplasia

-glaucoma

-cataracts

-entropion

-autoimmune disease

-melanoma

-due to the thickness of its coat fleas can be a problem

-sensitivity to high heat and high humidity

-sensitivity to anesthesia

The average Chow Chow lifespan is from ten to twelve years.

Chow Chow Temperament 

This is considered to be a low-energy dog. The Chow can often be introverted and seem detached. This is believed to be due to the fact that in the past they did not have single masters as they were considered working dogs and not pets. However, they do form strong bonds and typically become more attached with one or two members of the family.

They can also be quite protective of their favorite people as well and make excellent guard dogs. The breed can be good with kids when properly trained and raised with them. Although they may not get along with other dogs and pets. Because they are independent and dominant by nature, training can be a challenge.

Chow Chow Care 

As it is not an active breed the Chow is content with just a daily walk. And as long as it gets this exercise it can easily live in an apartment. Since it can be stubborn it’s very important that Chow Chow training starts early on.

It is not a breed for everyone and will need a firm and consistent master with experience owning dogs before. Early socialization is critical as well with this breed. And it will help to produce a dog that is calm and comfortable around kids, strangers, and other dogs and animals.

However, due to its dominant and protective nature, this is a breed that will need to always be kept on the leash and properly fenced-in when in the yard. While typically only bathed monthly grooming can be time-consuming, requiring several hours per week. Both coat types will need to be brushed at least twice weekly.

Chow Chow Facts

-According to DNA testing, the Chow is believed to have been one of the first breeds to have branched off from the wolf.

-The name Chow Chow comes from the slang expression used by English sailors to describe cargo on the ship from Asia.

-The breed’s name in Chinese is Songshi Quan which translates to “puffy lion dog.”

-Chow Chow puppies are actually born with a pink tongue however it becomes darker over time, and finally a blue-black color.

-The blue-black tongue is considered such an important feature of the breed that dogs which have a pink tongue, or that are even spotted with pink, are not eligible to be shown in the ring.

-It is the distinct color of the Chow’s tongue that leads many people to believe that it’s related to the Shar-Pei another ancient Chinese breed that also has a blue-black or purple tongue as well.

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