My blue-tongued companion with her lion-like mane turns heads everywhere we go. The Chow Chow isn’t just a pet—it’s an ancient Chinese breed with a regal history dating back to the Tang Dynasty.
These dignified, cat-like dogs bond deeply with their chosen person while maintaining that characteristic aloof demeanor with strangers.
Despite their independent nature, they’re incredibly loyal family guardians.
Before bringing home this distinctive square-profile breed, you should understand their:
- Specific grooming needs for both rough and smooth coat varieties
- Common health concerns like hip dysplasia and entropion
- Training approach for their strong-willed temperament
- Socialization requirements to manage their protective instincts
From their striking cinnamon, black, blue, cream, or red coloring to their unique stilted gait, Chow Chows offer a one-of-a-kind companion for the right owner.
Chow Chow Breed Statistics
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Origin | East Asian/Chinese (Tang Dynasty) |
| Size | Medium-large |
| Weight | 45-70 lbs (20-32 kg) |
| Height | 17-20 inches (43-51 cm) |
| Coat Types | Rough (more common), Smooth |
| Colors | Red, Black, Blue, Cinnamon, Cream |
| Lifespan | 8-12 years |
| Temperament | Dignified, Aloof, Independent, Loyal |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate (30-60 min daily) |
| Grooming | High maintenance (daily brushing) |
| Shedding | Heavy (seasonal “blowing coat”) |
| Training Difficulty | Challenging (stubborn demeanor) |
| Good with Children | Better with older, respectful children |
| Good with Other Pets | Difficult, needs early socialization |
| Barking Level | Low (minimal barking) |
| Drooling | Low |
| Stranger Friendliness | Reserved, suspicious |
| Watchdog Ability | Excellent (territorial guard dog) |
| Adaptability | Moderate |
| Apartment Friendly | Yes, with sufficient exercise |
| Heat Tolerance | Poor (heat sensitive) |
| Cold Tolerance | Excellent |
| Health Issues | Hip/elbow dysplasia, entropion, thyroid disorders |
| Intelligence | High but independent |
| AKC Group | Non-sporting |
Understanding Chow Chow Personality
Dignified Independence
The Chow Chow’s cat-like temperament sets them apart from typical canines.
They maintain a reserved demeanor with a natural scowling expression that perfectly matches their aloof personality.
Unlike eager-to-please breeds, these ancient Chinese dogs assess situations carefully before engaging.
They’re quiet indoors. My blue-tongued companion spends hours lounging in her favorite spot, observing household activities with regal detachment.
Family Bonds
Despite their independent nature, Chow Chows form deep attachments. They typically become one-person dogs, though they accept family members they trust.
Their loyalty resembles that of primitive spitz-type breeds – protective without being clingy.
With children, supervision is essential. Their low tolerance for rough handling means they’re better suited to homes with respectful older kids who understand boundaries.
Social Behavior
Their interactions with strangers reveal their hunting breed history:
- Initial wariness
- Calculated assessment
- Slow warming process
- Clear territorial boundaries
Early socialization helps manage these protective instincts. Even well-socialized Chow Chows maintain their dignified reserve, a trait that draws many to this distinctive breed.
Health Considerations for Chow Chows
Genetic Health Concerns
The square-profile build and thick mane of the Chow Chow come with specific health challenges.
Hip and elbow dysplasia affect many due to their straight hind legs and muscular build. Regular vet checkups should screen for:
- Entropion (inward-rolling eyelids)
- Glaucoma
- Thyroid disorders
- Skin fold infections
Their sunken eye appearance makes regular inspection crucial. Some bloodlines carry higher risks, so health clearances from reputable breeders matter significantly.
Lifespan Management
With an 8-10 year average lifespan, Chow Chows transition from puppyhood to senior status relatively quickly.
Their stubbornness can mask pain, making regular veterinary monitoring essential.
Senior Chow Chows benefit from joint supplements and modified exercise as their stilted gait becomes more pronounced with age.
Temperature Sensitivity
Their double-coated canine heritage makes them remarkably cold-tolerant but prone to overheating. Heat sensitivity requires careful management:
- Air-conditioned indoor spaces during summer
- Early morning or evening walks only
- Constant fresh water access
- Monitoring for signs of heat stress
This East Asian breed thrives in cooler climates where their thick undercoat provides comfort rather than burden.
Nutrition and Feeding Guidelines
Dietary Requirements
Chow Chows need high-quality protein to maintain their muscular build and thick double coat.
My cinnamon Chow thrives on food formulated for non-sporting group breeds. Feed according to life stage – puppies require more calories for growth while seniors need less to prevent weight gain.
Key nutritional considerations:
- Moderate protein (22-26%)
- Moderate fat (12-16%)
- Omega fatty acids for coat health
- Joint supplements (glucosamine/chondroitin)
Their blue-black lips and tongue require no special dietary considerations, but their food sensitivity does.
Feeding Practices
Scheduled meals work better than free feeding. Adult Chow Chows typically eat twice daily, while puppies need 3-4 smaller meals.
Measure portions carefully – their dignified, low-activity indoor behavior makes them prone to weight gain.
Elevated food bowls help prevent neck strain during meals, especially important for this square profile breed with their unique head structure.
Weight Management
Maintaining proper weight prevents stress on their straight hind legs and joints. An overweight Chow Chow faces increased risk of hip dysplasia and mobility issues.
Their thick mane can hide weight gain, so regular weight checks are essential.
Signs of healthy weight include:
- Visible waist when viewed from above
- Palpable ribs under coat
- Active movement without labored breathing
- Maintained stilted gait without waddling
Grooming and Coat Care
Understanding Coat Types
Chow Chows come in rough and smooth coat varieties. The more common rough coat creates that distinctive lion dog appearance but requires significant maintenance.
Smooth coats need less grooming but still shed seasonally.
During coat-blowing season (typically spring and fall), daily brushing becomes essential.
Their seasonal shedding can be dramatic – prepare for tumbleweed-like fur collections throughout your home.
Essential Grooming Routine
My grooming schedule includes:
- Daily brushing with slicker brush
- Weekly undercoat rake during normal periods
- Twice-weekly undercoat raking during shedding
- Monthly baths with breed-specific shampoo
- Regular ear cleaning to prevent infections
- Nail trimming every 3-4 weeks
Start grooming sessions early in their life. This stubborn demeanor breed tolerates grooming better when accustomed to it from puppyhood.
Skin Health Management
Their thick coat hides skin issues, making regular checks important. Check skin folds, especially around the face and tail base.
Their scowling expression creates facial folds prone to infection without proper care.
Red Chow Chows sometimes show more skin sensitivity than other colors.
All Chow Chows benefit from occasional coconut oil massages directly on the skin to maintain moisture and prevent hot spots common in this primitive spitz-type breed.
Socialization Strategies
Puppy Socialization
Early exposure shapes a Chow Chow’s future behavior. Start socialization immediately but control all interactions carefully. These blue-tongued dogs form quick opinions about new experiences.
Essential exposures during weeks 8-16:
- Different floor surfaces
- Various environmental sounds
- People of all ages and appearances
- Gentle handling by strangers
- Car rides and public spaces
Maintain positive associations through treats and praise. My cream Chow received treats from strangers, creating lasting positive impressions despite their natural wariness.
Adult Socialization Maintenance
Continue exposures throughout adolescence and adulthood. The Songshi Quan’s reserved personality requires ongoing socialization to prevent excessive suspicion.
Weekly outings help maintain social skills for this aloof dog breed.
Keep interactions brief but positive. Their dignified demeanor means they tire of social situations quickly. Watch for subtle signs of stress – turning away, lip licking, or stiffening posture.
Special Situations
Veterinary visits need special attention. Practice handling similar to exam procedures at home. Their territorial guard dog instincts make unfamiliar handling stressful.
For dog-to-dog introductions:
- Choose neutral territory
- Use parallel walking before face-to-face meetings
- Keep initial meetings brief
- Reward calm behavior generously
Behavior Management
Common Challenges
The Chow Chow’s hunting breed history creates specific behavioral patterns. Resource guarding appears frequently, especially in dogs from the AKC non-sporting group with strong protective instincts.
Their cat-like temperament means they set boundaries clearly. Respect their space while establishing household rules consistently. They’re less forgiving of inconsistency than other breeds.
Typical issues include:
- Reluctance to allow handling of paws/ears
- Possessiveness of food or toys
- Wariness with unfamiliar visitors
- Stubborn refusal of commands
Prevention Approaches
Establish clear expectations early. These strong-willed companions respect calm, confident leadership.
Prevent guarding by teaching “drop it” and “leave it” commands using positive methods.
Environmental management helps prevent problems:
- Secure trash containers
- Use baby gates for restricted areas
- Create multiple resting spots
- Provide appropriate chew items
Their minimal barking nature means when they do bark, it’s meaningful. Investigate causes rather than simply silencing them.
Correction Methods
Redirect unwanted behaviors to appropriate alternatives. Their independent canine nature responds better to showing what they should do rather than punishing what they shouldn’t.
For serious issues like aggression or severe resource guarding, consult professionals experienced with this primitive spitz-type breed.
Their blue-black lips and scowling expression can hide subtle communication signals that experts recognize.
Living Environment Needs
Home Setup
Chow Chows adapt well to various living spaces. Their low-activity indoor behavior makes them suitable for apartments despite their muscular build. They need:
- A cool resting area (tile or hardwood floors preferred)
- Access to both sun and shade outdoors
- Secure fencing at least 5 feet tall
- Multiple sleeping spots throughout the home
My blue Chow gravitates to air conditioning vents during summer. Their thick double coat makes temperature management crucial for this heat-sensitive breed.
Safety Considerations
Secure your property thoroughly. The Chow Chow’s territorial guard dog nature means they may patrol boundaries and attempt escape if motivated.
Their independent canine personality makes reliable recall challenging.
Check for hazards specific to this breed:
- Ensure fencing extends underground to prevent digging
- Remove toxic plants like azaleas and sago palms
- Provide sturdy furniture they won’t damage when jumping
- Install gates to restrict access during visitors’ arrivals
Their strong jaws require durable toys and furnishings. The square profile breed can be surprisingly determined when motivated.
Travel and Mobility
Plan carefully for travel with these East Asian origin dogs. Their dignified demeanor makes them poor candidates for extended car trips. Start with short journeys and gradually increase duration.
Essential travel gear includes:
- Crash-tested harness or crate
- Portable water bowl and extra water
- Cooling mat for warm weather
- Familiar bedding with home scent
Finding and Selecting a Chow Chow
Responsible Sources
Consider these options:
- Reputable breeders registered with the Chow Chow Club Inc
- Breed-specific rescue organizations
- General rescues with breed experience
Avoid pet stores and online marketplaces. This ancient Chinese dog breed requires careful breeding to minimize health issues and temperament problems.
Selection Guidance
When evaluating puppies, observe their interaction with littermates. A properly socialized puppy shows curiosity without excessive fear or aggression.
Meet the parents if possible – their temperament often predicts the puppy’s future personality.
Look for health clearances including:
- OFA certification for hips and elbows
- Eye examinations by veterinary ophthalmologists
- Thyroid testing
- Von Willebrand’s disease screening
Bringing Home Your Chow
Prepare before arrival day. Their one-person dog tendency means they need time to bond with each family member. Create a quiet space with minimal disruption for the first few days.
For adult Chow Chows, understand their history may influence behavior. Dogs with minimal early socialization need patient, consistent training to overcome their natural wariness with strangers.
Their reserved with strangers nature can be managed but rarely eliminated completely.
FAQ on Chow Chow
Are Chow Chows good family dogs?
Chow Chows can be loyal family guardians but aren’t ideal for homes with small children. Their dignified, aloof nature means they typically bond strongly with one person.
They’re territorial and protective of their chosen family members but need early socialization to manage their reserved temperament with strangers.
How much grooming do Chow Chows need?
Extensive grooming is required, especially during coat-blowing season. The lion-like double coat needs daily brushing to prevent matting.
Rough coat varieties require more attention than smooth coat types. Regular care for skin folds helps prevent hot spots and infections. Their blue-black tongues need minimal special care.
What health issues are common in Chow Chows?
Purebred Chow Chows commonly face:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Entropion (inward-rolling eyelids)
- Thyroid disorders
- Skin conditions
- Heat sensitivity
Their squarish build and straight hind legs can lead to joint problems. Regular vet checkups are essential for this ancient Chinese breed with an 8-10 year lifespan.
Do Chow Chows bark a lot?
No. Unlike many guard dogs, Chow Chows are quiet with minimal barking. These independent canines are more cat-like in their communication style.
They’ll alert you to genuine threats but aren’t noisy. Their scowling expression often communicates more than vocalizations.
Are Chow Chows easy to train?
Challenging. This strong-willed companion breed has an independent nature that can make training difficult.
Their stubborn demeanor requires consistent, positive reinforcement techniques. Short training sessions work best. They’re intelligent but not eager to please like some breeds, resembling their primitive spitz-type ancestors.
How much exercise do Chow Chows need?
Moderate. Despite their muscular build, Chow Chows don’t require extensive exercise. A daily 30-minute walk suffices for most adults.
Their distinctive stilted gait and thick mane make them heat-sensitive, so avoid strenuous activity in warm weather. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise.
What colors do Chow Chows come in?
Official colors include:
- Red (most common)
- Black
- Blue
- Cinnamon
- Cream
The AKC Non-sporting group standards recognize these five colors. Each requires specific coat care, with the blue Chow Chow being particularly striking. All varieties share the characteristic blue-black pigmentation of tongue, gums and lips.
Are Chow Chows hypoallergenic?
No. Despite their thick coat, Chow Chows aren’t hypoallergenic. They’re heavy seasonal shedders during their “blowing coat” periods.
Their double-coated fur requires regular grooming to manage dander and loose hair. Air purifiers and frequent vacuuming help reduce allergens if you’re sensitive.
How much do Chow Chows cost?
Purebred Chow Chow puppies from reputable breeders typically cost $1,000-$4,000. Show-quality dogs with superior bloodlines command premium prices.
Adoption from Chow Chow rescue organizations ranges from $300-$600. Remember that the Songshi Quan (Chinese name) requires significant ongoing expenses for grooming and healthcare.
Can Chow Chows live with other pets?
Possible but challenging. Early socialization is crucial. Their East Asian origin as hunting companions means they have prey drive toward smaller animals.
They can be territorial with other dogs, especially same-sex ones. Proper introductions and supervision are essential. Many prefer being the only pet in the household.
Conclusion
The Chow Chow isn’t just a pet—it’s a commitment to a unique canine companion with a rich heritage.
Their distinctive scowling expression and teddy bear appearance hide a complex personality that rewards dedicated owners.
Bringing this ancient Chinese dog into your life means understanding:
- Their need for early socialization to manage protective instincts
- Regular grooming requirements for their seasonal shedding
- Temperature sensitivity due to their thick double coat
- Potential health issues like entropion and hip dysplasia
These square-profile, muscular dogs with their distinctive blue-black lips require owners who appreciate their independent, one-person nature.
The reward? A loyal, dignified companion that connects deeply with their chosen humans while maintaining that fascinating aloof demeanor with others.
For the right owner, the Songshi Quan offers a special relationship unlike any other dog breed—combining the territorial guard dog instincts of their hunting breed history with surprisingly minimal barking and cat-like cleanliness.
