Chow Chow

• Table of Contents
• Chow Chow Traits
• Chow Chow General Character
• Chow Chow History
• Chow Chow Personality and Character Traits
• Chow Chow Appearance
• Chow Chow General Care
• Chow Chow Health
• Chow Chow Nutrition
• Did you know?

Chow Chow Traits

Chow Chow Height

30-40 Cm
 

Chow Chow Weight

Between 20-31 Kg
 

Chow Chow Life Expectancy

Between 12-15 years

Chow Chow Appearance

• Blue-black tongue color
• Large-boned
• Short and broad body
• Double-layered coat
• Round and small ears
• Narrow, brown eyes

Chow Chow General Character

 

The Chow Chow, known for its lion-like appearance and distinctive blue-black tongue, is a medium to large-sized dog. Originating from China, the history of this breed dates back thousands of years. Chow Chows are generally not social and outgoing, behaving reservedly towards strangers and showing potential aggression towards other dogs. However, they are known to be loyal and protective towards their families. Their history in home and farm guarding contributes to these characteristic traits. When properly trained, they can socialize with people, other pets, and dogs. However, it's important to consider their tendency to bark loudly, especially in apartment living.

Chow Chow History

Chow Chows, one of the Eastern Asian dog breeds and among the oldest dog groups to emerge after the domestication of dogs, represent one of the most important lineages in dog evolution, distinguished from other breeds by their blue-black tongues. The history of Chow Chows dates back to around 206 B.C. during the Han Dynasty, and some sources suggest that this breed is depicted in bronze castings and sculptures dating back to the 3rd century B.C.

In ancient China, Chow Chows were used for tasks such as hunting, pulling loads, and protecting herds. They have been recognized since those times as loyal guardian dogs and skilled hunters. This breed was closely associated with royalty during the time of the Chinese Empire and was highly valued by nobility.

Chow Chows were first brought to the United Kingdom in the 1820s and then to the United States in the 1890s. They were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1903.

Chow Chow Personality and Character Traits

Chow Chows are independent, challenging to train, not excessively energetic, and have a relatively sedentary nature. This breed tends to be reserved with strangers, and although not overly affectionate, they are quite loyal to their families. Serving as both an excellent guard dog and a good protection dog, Chow Chows have a high decibel level even though they are not prone to excessive barking. Those considering living with this breed should be willing to accept the independent nature of Chow Chows.

Chow Chow Appearance

Chow Chowların kabarık ve etkileyici yelesi, onları olduğundan daha heybetli gösterir. The fluffy and impressive mane of Chow Chows makes them appear more imposing than they actually are. Even a six-month-old male Chow puppy can weigh over 40 kilograms. This breed comes in two different coat types: rough and smooth. The most distinctive feature is their mane-like fur, which can be in colors such as red, cream, light brown, and black. Their eyes are always dark brown, and their faces have a distinctive panda-like appearance.

Chow Chows are unique among mammals with their dark blue-black tongue and mouth tissue. Unlike breeds with smiling expressions, such as the Samoyed, the distinctive frowning expression of Chow Chows sets them apart. They also have a firm and erect walking style, adding to their characteristic features.

Chow Chow General Care

Chow Chow Feather Care

Chow Chows should be brushed at least once a week for coat maintenance, and this frequency should be increased during shedding periods. The frequency of baths should also be adjusted based on their level of activity. This grooming routine helps maintain skin health, prevents skin problems and parasites, and contributes to regulating the body temperature of the animal, especially in warm weather.
 

Chow Chow Exercise

Despite being a large breed, Chow Chows only need about 40-60 minutes of daily walks as sufficient exercise. Engaging them in activities like fetching and hide-and-seek games can stimulate their instincts and make their exercise routines enjoyable.
 

Chow Chow Health

Chow Chows are generally healthy dogs, but they may be prone to some health issues such as hip dysplasia and eye problems.

• Hip Dysplasia: Chow Chows may be particularly prone to hip dysplasia, a condition characterized by the improper development of the hip joint.
• Patellar Luxation: This condition refers to the dislocation of the kneecap and can be common in this breed.
• Entropion and Ectropion: These conditions involve the inward or outward rolling of the eyelids, leading to problems like eye dryness and ulceration.
• Distichiasis: Distichiasis is another eye problem characterized by the abnormal growth of eyelashes.
• Allergic Dermatitis: Chow Chows may be prone to skin allergies and, as a result, dermatitis.
• Obecity: Chow Chows may be predisposed to obesity. A balanced diet and regular exercise are critical to preventing this condition.
• Respiratory Problems: The short and flat face structure (brachycephalic) of Chow Chows can lead to respiratory issues.

Chow Chow Nutrition

A healthy, balanced, and protein-heavy diet is important for Chow Chows to maintain muscle structure and meet their energy needs. High-quality dog food containing essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals should be used. Careful control of fat intake and consideration of grain-free diet options are important, especially for this breed prone to obesity and with sensitivity to grains.

Did you know?

• Chow Chows have a unique feature when they are puppies, having an extra pair of teeth.
• Their walking style is referred to as "stilted," meaning they move with a stiff-legged gait.
• The name "Chow" is believed to come from a term meaning odds and ends, dating back to the 1700s.
• While Chows are commonly associated with red fur, according to the AKC breed standard, they can also come in black, blue, cinnamon, and cream colors.