Information About the Chow Chow Dog Breed

In modern China, the Chow Chow dog breed is called "song shi" or "xiong shi" which means "pine tree lion" or "bear lion" (this Chinese spelling is the modern standard pinying translation). The name Chow Chow is an English adaptation of Chinese words which don't mean dog at all. Some say Chow Chow is from a Chinese word to eat (chi - or chou as some websites are saying). Another theory is that Chow Chow was what the 18th century English called any odds and ends from Eastern Asia.

The Chow Chow dog breed is very distinctive. His face is thick-skinned and resembles the face of his cousin, the Shar Pei dog breed. If the Chow Chow dog breed had short hair like the Shar Pei dog breed, his face would look just as scrunched together and somewhat wrinkled. But the Chow Chow has longer hair and a thicker coat. Even the hard short-coat version of the Chow Chow dog breed has longer hair than the Shar Pei dog breed. The long-haired version of the Chow Chow has a long and coarse rough coat and reminds us of a bear or lion. This long-haired version (more commonly seen in the US) requires brushing every other day or so.

The Chow Chow has a blue-black tongue and black mouth. His coat should be a solid color of red, black, blue, cinnamon, or cream (as per the standards of the American Kennel Club). He stands between 17 and 20 inches tall and weighs between 45 and 70 pounds. He has small triangular ears which stand erect and a tail carried over his back. He has a large head as compared to his body. His chest is broad and his body is solidly built.

While regular brushing is a must with the long-haired version of the Chow Chow dog breed, his exercise requirements are minimal. He has a low energy level and is not generally inclined to play. A short walk per day in mild or cool weather is all he needs.

The Chow Chow dog breed can be rather aloof in temperament. He is a one-man or one-family dog and does not generally seek attention or affection. His mannerisms may seem snobbish but he is protective of his family. The independent attitude of the Chow Chow dog breed can make him difficult to train. Tempting with treats is probably the best way to train the Chow Chow dog breed since toys and praise have very little effect on him. His stubborn nature can also make training difficult if any method other than positive reinforcement is used.

The Chow Chow dog breed can get along with other pets, but can sometimes be aggressive with other dogs if not socialized properly. Although he doesn't like to be bothered, he can be rather tolerant of the younger members of the family. But he doesn't care for adults or children outside of the family.

Like most large dog breeds, the Chow Chow dog breed has a genetic disposition for hip dysplasia. He is also prone to elbow dysplasia and patellar luxation (all of which are skeletal diseases). Gastric torsion is another health issue associated with large dog breeds and Chow Chows. And because of the thick skin around his eyes, the Chow Chow dog breed is also inclined to have eyelid problems.

My dog, Sephi, is 25% to 50% Chow Chow. She has a long thick coat, black spotted tongue, and a very Chow Chow-like personality. She keeps to herself much of the time and oftentimes comes across as being selfish and stubborn. Sephi doesn't like other dogs but tolerates people and children. She is a great guard dog and can be very sweet when she wants to be.

If you are considering getting a Chow Chow dog breed, consider adopting or rescuing. By adopting from an animal shelter or rescuing from a Chow Chow dog breed rescue group, you can gage the health and temperament of an adult dog and select a dog which best fits you and your family. Or if you prefer to buy an American Kennel Club (AKC) registered Chow Chow, be sure to research the dog breeder thoroughly. Being registered with the AKC does not guarantee a quality dog with little or no health or temperament issues.