Chow Chow

An ancient Chinese breed used as a multi-purpose homestead dog—guardian, draft helper, and hunter—the Chow Chow appears in art and records spanning centuries. The breed reached Britain in the 1800s and later North America, prized for its aloof nobility and striking coat. Modern Chows retain their self-possessed temperament, sturdy build, and distinctive blue-black tongue, a hallmark shared with only a few other breeds.

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A compact, square, powerful spitz with small triangular ears and a high-set tail carried over the back.

• Weight: ~45–70 lb (20–32 kg)
• Height: ~17–20 in (43–51 cm)
• Coat Type: Double coat in two varieties—Rough (longer with profuse ruff/pants) and Smooth (short, dense, harsh)
• Coat Colours: Red (light to dark), Black, Blue, Cinnamon/Fawn, Cream (self or shaded); solid with possible lighter shading
• Distinctive Physical Traits: Blue-black tongue, deep chest, straight hindlimb angulation with characteristic “stilted” gait, scowling expression, thick ruff, compact catlike feet

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Impressive coat = consistent maintenance—especially during seasonal sheds.

• Brushing: Rough—2–3×/week; Smooth—1–2×/week; daily during spring/fall coat blow (line-brush to the skin; undercoat rake)
• Bathing: Every 4–8 weeks; fully dry to the skin (force dryer ideal) to prevent hot spots
• De-shedding Focus: Neck/ruff, breeches, behind ears, tail base, armpits
• Ears/Teeth/Nails: Clean ears weekly; brush teeth 3–4×/week; trim nails every 2–4 weeks
• Coat Note: Do not shave the double coat; it protects from heat/cold and sun
• Shedding: Moderate year-round; heavy seasonally

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Moderate body work with strong management for heat.

• Daily Duration: 45–60 minutes total (split calm walks + training/enrichment)
• Great Activities: Power walks, hiking in cool hours, rally/obedience, scent games, carting at slow pace
• Climate Notes: Heat-sensitive—avoid midday summer exercise; provide shade/water; watch for overheating signs

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Independent, intelligent, and handler-sensitive—clarity and fairness matter.

• Approach: Positive reinforcement; short, purposeful sessions; avoid harsh corrections
• Focus Areas: Early socialization, leash neutrality, impulse control at doors/visitors, reliable recall, calm place/settle, cooperative care (blow-dryer, brushing, eye/ear handling)
• Management: Visitor protocols, neutral greetings, muzzle conditioning for vet/groom visits if needed

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Keep lean to protect joints and skin.

• Food Type: High-quality all-life-stage/skin-support kibble or balanced fresh diet
• Daily Quantity: ~2–3.5 cups/day total, split into two meals (adjust to dog/food/activity)
• Diet Advice: Maintain BCS 4–5/9; consider omega-3s (EPA/DHA) for skin/joints; count training treats; fresh water always

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Temperament, health screens, and lifelong support are key.

• Breeders: Choose CKC-affiliated preservation breeders providing orthopedic/eye/thyroid results, early socialization plans, and lifetime take-back
• Adoption: Spitz/Asian-breed and all-breed rescues; ask about eye surgeries, skin/thyroid history, and grooming tolerance
• Canadian Resources: CKC directory; Chow Chow Club of Canada; provincial obedience/scent-work clubs (ON/BC/QC/AB) for training and community

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Choose breeders who screen and disclose; work with a vet familiar with the breed.

• Eyes: Entropion (inward-rolling lids) with corneal irritation/ulcers; may require surgical correction; cataracts/glaucoma reported
• Orthopedic: Hip and elbow dysplasia; cruciate tears occasionally—keep lean and manage footing
• Endocrine/Immune: Autoimmune thyroiditis (hypothyroidism) in some lines; allergies/pyoderma possible under dense coat
• Respiratory/Heat: Brachy-tendency is mild, but heavy coat + short muzzle can reduce heat tolerance—prioritize cooling
• Other: Patellar luxation (some), bloat risk lower than giants but basic precautions help
• Life Expectancy: 9–12 years
• Recommended Testing (breeders): Hips/elbows (OFA/FCI), annual CAER eye exams (entropion/corneas), thyroid panel; discuss skin/allergy history and temperament

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Are Chow Chows good apartment dogs?
Yes—if you provide 45–60 minutes of daily exercise, enrichment, and consistent training.

Do Chow Chows shed a lot?
Yes. Moderate normally and heavy seasonally—line-brush and de-shed tools help.

Are Chow Chows hypoallergenic?
No. They are not hypoallergenic.

Do Chow Chows drool?
Usually low to moderate—more after drinking or heat; keep a towel handy.

How much exercise does a Chow Chow need?
About 45–60 minutes daily plus short training sessions or nose games.

Rough vs Smooth coat—what’s different?
Rough: longer, profuse ruff/pants, more grooming. Smooth: shorter/denser, easier upkeep—both double-coated and shed.

Are Chow Chows aggressive?
They’re naturally reserved/guardy, not inherently aggressive. Early socialization, neutrality training, and clear management are essential.

Do Chow Chows have eye problems?
Entropion is relatively common. Work with your vet; some dogs need corrective surgery to protect the cornea.

How do I keep a Chow safe in summer?
Exercise at cool hours, provide shade/water, avoid hot cars/sidewalks, and watch for overheating; never shave the double coat.

What health tests should breeders do?
Hips/elbows, CAER eyes, and thyroid panel; ask to see documentation and discuss skin/temperament history.

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