Chow Chow

Appearance

Details: Chow Chows are small stocky dogs with a lion-like mane or ruff. The skull is broad and flat. The muzzle is short and broad. The ears are small and rounded. The almond-shaped dark brown eyes are deep set and placed wide apart and obliquely. A unique feature of these dogs is that they have blue-black tongues though at birth the color is pink. The broad nose is black with well-opened nostrils. The body is strong and muscular. The tail is fluffy and carried closely to the back.

Average height and weight (mature size and weight):  17-20 inches, 40-70 pounds

Color / coat variations: Chow Chows are either rough coated or smooth coated. The outer coat is coarse and long. The inner coat is dense. The smooth coated Chow Chow has a short, dense, outer coat and a dense inner coat. The usual colors are red, cinnamon, black, blue, and cream.

Care

Lifespan: 8-10 years

Litter size: 3-6 puppies

Grooming and shedding: Regular grooming is necessary to keep the coat in good condition. Brushing with a pin and rake brush is done two or more times a week. The ruff of the Chow Chow must be handled with care.

Food habits: A good quality dog food or a fresh nutritious diet is necessary for these dogs.

Climate and environment: They cannot stand excessive heat and humidity. They must be allowed to freely move around in a fenced yard or inside the house. They do not like being chained.

Temperament

Behavioral aspects: Chow Chows are quite different from other breeds, displaying a set of behaviors similar to a cat. They are as reserved and intelligent as cats. They may not always enjoy cuddling by children or strangers. They may bark at unfamiliar people and situations. Some Chow Chows may be extremely aggressive or timid though these behaviors are less desirable. They are not destructive or disobedient. Most problems arise due to lack of proper training and socialization.

With children: They are good with children from the owner's family. It may be necessary to supervise Chow Chows with unfamiliar children.

With other dogs and animals: They do not get along with other dogs especially larger dogs. Socialization creates a sense of familiarity and reduces any aggressive tendencies. They may get along with other pets that have grown up with them.

Training and learning rate: Chow Chows are generally well behaved giving the impression that they do not need training. However, as they grow up, they may become more difficult to control. Early training and socialization is necessary. Training needs to be consistent, firm, and patient. They are average learners.

Activity Level

Agility: They do well in agility.

Affinity to water: They like to swim.

How noisy are they: They are not very noisy though they like to bark.

Exercise: They require regular exercise in the form of short jogs and walks.

Health issues: Chow Chows are prone to entropion, a turning-in of the eyelashes. Skin problems and allergic reactions are common. Hip dysplasia, a condition marked by abnormal hips, occurs in a significant number of dogs.