Dog Breeds - Chow Chow

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a particular breed is inclined to show towards its family members or other familiar individuals is worth considering. Certain breeds may exhibit reserve towards everyone else except their owner, whereas other breeds tend to treat all those they are acquainted with as their dearest companions.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
When assessing a breed's compatibility with children, it is crucial to consider their tolerance and patience towards children's behavior, as well as their overall family-friendly nature. It's important to note that dogs should always be supervised when interacting with young children or with children of any age who have limited experience with dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
It is essential to supervise and oversee interactions and introductions between dogs, regardless of their breed. However, certain breeds exhibit a natural inclination to be more amiable and get along well with other dogs, both within their household and in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The shedding characteristics of a breed determine the amount of fur and hair they are likely to leave behind. Breeds that shed heavily will require more frequent brushing to manage the loose hair. Moreover, they may be more prone to triggering allergies associated with pet dander. Additionally, if you have a breed that sheds a lot you can expect to engage in more consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep your surroundings clean.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The grooming needs of a breed, including bathing, brushing, trimming and other coat maintenance tasks, should be taken into account. The frequency of these grooming activities may vary depending on the breed. It is important to consider the time, patience, and budget you have available for such care when selecting a breed. Additionally, all breeds require regular nail trimming to ensure their comfort and well-being.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency for drooling can vary among different breeds. For individuals who prioritize cleanliness, breeds that are prone to excessive drooling, leaving ropes of slobber on your arm or causing big wet spots on your clothes may not be the ideal choice. It's important to consider this factor when selecting a breed that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle.
COAT TYPE +
Smooth, Rough, Double
COAT LENGTH +
Short

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The receptiveness of a breed towards strangers can vary. Some breeds may exhibit reserved or cautious behavior around unfamiliar individuals, regardless of the setting. On the other hand, certain breeds tend to be more open and happier to meet new people whenever they encounter them. It's important to consider the social tendencies of a breed when assessing their compatibility with your preferences and desired level of interaction with strangers.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The enthusiasm for play can vary among different breeds even beyond the puppyhood stage. Some breeds may maintain a strong desire to engage in interactive activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. These breeds tend to have high energy levels and enjoy physical stimulation. On the other hand, certain breeds may be more inclined to relax and spend quality time with their owners on the couch. It is important to consider the playfulness level of a breed when assessing compatibility with your own activity preferences and lifestyle.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Certain breeds have a natural inclination to alert their owners when strangers are present. These breeds are more likely to react to any potential threat, such as the arrival of the mailman or the presence of a squirrel outside the window. It is important to note that while these breeds may exhibit an alert and protective behavior, they can also warm up to strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to handle changes can vary. Some breeds are more flexible and can easily adjust to different living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, and variations in the daily schedule. These breeds are generally more adaptable and can handle changes with relative ease. However, it's important to note that individual dogs within a breed can still have their own unique levels of adaptability. When considering a breed, it's helpful to research their general attitude towards change and assess whether it aligns with your own lifestyle and potential variations in day-to-day life.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and the willingness to learn new things can vary among different breeds. Some breeds are known for their high trainability and eagerness to please their owners making them relatively easy to train. These breeds are often motivated by making their owners proud and enjoy learning new commands and tricks. On the other hand, certain breeds may exhibit a more independent or stubborn nature preferring to do things on their own terms. This can make training more challenging as their willingness to comply with commands may be lower. It's important to consider the trainability and willingness to learn of a breed when determining the best fit for your training goals and preferences.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The exercise and mental stimulation requirements vary among different breeds. High-energy breeds exhibit a readiness and eagerness for their next adventure, spending their days engaging in activities like running, jumping, and playing. On the other hand, low-energy breeds resemble contented couch potatoes finding joy in lounging around and snoozing.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
It's fascinating to observe how frequently this breed communicates through vocalizations be it barks or howls. While certain breeds tend to bark incessantly at anyone passing by or even birds near the window, others reserve their barks for specific situations. It's worth noting that even barkless breeds can still express themselves vocally through alternative sounds.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The mental stimulation required for a breed to maintain its happiness and overall wellbeing can vary significantly. Purpose-bred dogs often possess specific qualities that make them suitable for tasks involving decision-making, problem-solving, concentration, and more. Without adequate mental exercise, these dogs may resort to creating their own activities to occupy their minds, which may not align with your preferences.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of affection a particular breed is inclined to show towards its family members or other familiar individuals is worth considering. Certain breeds may exhibit reserve towards everyone else except their owner, whereas other breeds tend to treat all those they are acquainted with as their dearest companions.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

When assessing a breed's compatibility with children, it is crucial to consider their tolerance and patience towards children's behavior, as well as their overall family-friendly nature. It's important to note that dogs should always be supervised when interacting with young children or with children of any age who have limited experience with dogs.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

It is essential to supervise and oversee interactions and introductions between dogs, regardless of their breed. However, certain breeds exhibit a natural inclination to be more amiable and get along well with other dogs, both within their household and in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The shedding characteristics of a breed determine the amount of fur and hair they are likely to leave behind. Breeds that shed heavily will require more frequent brushing to manage the loose hair. Moreover, they may be more prone to triggering allergies associated with pet dander. Additionally, if you have a breed that sheds a lot you can expect to engage in more consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep your surroundings clean.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The grooming needs of a breed, including bathing, brushing, trimming and other coat maintenance tasks, should be taken into account. The frequency of these grooming activities may vary depending on the breed. It is important to consider the time, patience, and budget you have available for such care when selecting a breed. Additionally, all breeds require regular nail trimming to ensure their comfort and well-being.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The tendency for drooling can vary among different breeds. For individuals who prioritize cleanliness, breeds that are prone to excessive drooling, leaving ropes of slobber on your arm or causing big wet spots on your clothes may not be the ideal choice. It's important to consider this factor when selecting a breed that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Smooth, Rough, Double

COAT SPECTRUM

Short

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The receptiveness of a breed towards strangers can vary. Some breeds may exhibit reserved or cautious behavior around unfamiliar individuals, regardless of the setting. On the other hand, certain breeds tend to be more open and happier to meet new people whenever they encounter them. It's important to consider the social tendencies of a breed when assessing their compatibility with your preferences and desired level of interaction with strangers.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The enthusiasm for play can vary among different breeds even beyond the puppyhood stage. Some breeds may maintain a strong desire to engage in interactive activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. These breeds tend to have high energy levels and enjoy physical stimulation. On the other hand, certain breeds may be more inclined to relax and spend quality time with their owners on the couch. It is important to consider the playfulness level of a breed when assessing compatibility with your own activity preferences and lifestyle.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

Certain breeds have a natural inclination to alert their owners when strangers are present. These breeds are more likely to react to any potential threat, such as the arrival of the mailman or the presence of a squirrel outside the window. It is important to note that while these breeds may exhibit an alert and protective behavior, they can also warm up to strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed to handle changes can vary. Some breeds are more flexible and can easily adjust to different living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, and variations in the daily schedule. These breeds are generally more adaptable and can handle changes with relative ease. However, it's important to note that individual dogs within a breed can still have their own unique levels of adaptability. When considering a breed, it's helpful to research their general attitude towards change and assess whether it aligns with your own lifestyle and potential variations in day-to-day life.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training and the willingness to learn new things can vary among different breeds. Some breeds are known for their high trainability and eagerness to please their owners making them relatively easy to train. These breeds are often motivated by making their owners proud and enjoy learning new commands and tricks. On the other hand, certain breeds may exhibit a more independent or stubborn nature preferring to do things on their own terms. This can make training more challenging as their willingness to comply with commands may be lower. It's important to consider the trainability and willingness to learn of a breed when determining the best fit for your training goals and preferences.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The exercise and mental stimulation requirements vary among different breeds. High-energy breeds exhibit a readiness and eagerness for their next adventure, spending their days engaging in activities like running, jumping, and playing. On the other hand, low-energy breeds resemble contented couch potatoes finding joy in lounging around and snoozing.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Infrequent

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The mental stimulation required for a breed to maintain its happiness and overall wellbeing can vary significantly. Purpose-bred dogs often possess specific qualities that make them suitable for tasks involving decision-making, problem-solving, concentration, and more. Without adequate mental exercise, these dogs may resort to creating their own activities to occupy their minds, which may not align with your preferences.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Cream	076
Red	140
Cinnamon	074
Black	007
Blue	037

PATTERNS

About The Breed

The Chow Chow an ancient Chinese all-purpose dog embodies an aura of timeless mystery with its muscular deep-chested physique. This breed possesses a dignified serious-minded nature with an aloof demeanor offering a distinct blend of delightful qualities. Standing about 20 inches tall at the shoulder Chows are robust compact dogs. They feature unique characteristics such as a lion-like ruff of fur around their head and shoulders, a tongue that appears blue-black, deep-set almond-shaped eyes that contribute to a scowling, snobbish expression, and a stately gait with stiff-legged movements. Chows exhibit either a rough or smooth coat in various colors including red, black, blue, cinnamon, or cream.

Owners of Chows often praise their cleanliness as they are easily housebroken, emit minimal doggy odor, and exhibit a cat-like fastidiousness. When well-socialized Chows do not display aggression or stubbornness but rather demonstrate refinement and dignity. They remain reserved around unfamiliar individuals while showing unwavering loyalty to their loved ones. With their serene and adaptable nature Chows do not have stringent exercise requirements making them well-suited for urban living.

What to Expect When Caring for a CHOW CHOW

Owning a dog is indeed a significant responsibility that extends far beyond providing the basic necessities of food and shelter. Dogs, as sentient beings, require a comprehensive level of care that encompasses physical health, emotional well-being, and mental stimulation.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Chow Chow: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	The Chow Chow breed can experience various health concerns, such as entropion (a condition affecting the eyelids), hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, allergies, and thyroid problems. To mitigate these issues, it is important to conduct health screenings, engage in responsible breeding practices, and provide regular veterinary care. Veterinary professionals can diagnose and effectively manage these conditions. If you're seeking comprehensive and in-depth information about the breed's health, I recommend visiting the website of the Chow Chow Club, Inc. They provide extensive resources on this topic. Recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club: Patella Evaluation Hip Evaluation Thyroid Evaluation Elbow Evaluation Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Grooming

	Regular grooming is essential for both rough-coated and smooth-coated Chow Chows, as they boast a dense double coat. To keep their skin and coat in optimal condition, it is advised to brush them thoroughly at least twice a week and give them a monthly bath. It is crucial to promptly address any issues with parasites, such as fleas or ticks. Additionally, when grooming pay attention to their eyes and ears, ensuring they are clean and well-maintained. Regular nail trims are also necessary. It is worth noting that the puppy coat and the fur around the head are prone to matting if not groomed frequently. It is important to remove all mats and properly brush or comb through the undercoat. After bathing, it is advisable to use a cool air dryer to ensure that the Chow Chow is thoroughly dried.

Exercise

	The Chow Chow is a lively and vigilant dog that requires moderate exercise. They benefit from daily walks and moderate playtime with toys, while rough play or intense exercise should be avoided. It is important to note that Chows do not handle high heat or humidity well, so it is advisable to avoid exercising them during hot periods of the day. Engaging in four or more moderate-paced walks throughout the day will contribute to the overall well-being of both the Chow Chow and their owner. Participating in activities together not only keeps them physically healthy but also strengthens the bond between the canine and their human companion.

Training

	Early socialization and enrolling in puppy training classes are highly recommended for the Chow Chow breed as they aid in fostering a well-rounded and well-behaved companion. To achieve successful training outcomes, it is important to employ patience, positive reinforcement, and consistent approaches. While Chows are intelligent, they can also be stubborn. It is crucial to avoid harsh training methods in order to establish a trusting relationship with them. Instead, employing patience, offering praise, and engaging in regular practice will serve as effective tools for training your Chow Chow.

Nutrition

	There is a wide array of high-quality commercial dry and wet dog foods available in the market. Many owners opt for low-grain diets for their Chows. It is important to regularly examine your Chow's skin for any signs of irritation or allergies, even if there haven't been any recent changes in their commercial diet, as dog food companies frequently alter their formulas. It's worth noting that certain dog treats can also contribute to allergy or digestive issues. When it comes to table scraps, it is best to give them sparingly, or even avoid them altogether particularly when it involves cooked bones or foods high in fat content. Ensuring your knowledge about safe human foods for dogs and being aware of those that are harmful is crucial. If you have any concerns about your dog's weight or diet, it is always advisable to consult with your veterinarian.

Historiography

The Chow Chow breed holds a special place in history being considered one of the most distinctive and potentially oldest breeds. Evidence of Chows can be found in artifacts from China's Han Dynasty around 206 B.C. However, there are indications that Chows have an even more ancient lineage and may have served as ancestors to other spitz-type breeds ranging from the robust Norwegian Elkhound to the delicate Pomeranian.

Throughout their extensive history Chows have taken on various roles. They were esteemed companions of Chinese aristocracy with one Tang Dynasty emperor reputedly maintaining a kennel that housed around 5,000 Chows and a staff twice that size. However, over the centuries, Chows also served as guards, haulers, and hunters. In fact, their ancestors were even utilized as a food source during periods of protein scarcity in their densely populated homeland. This led to an ancient nickname for the breed, "Edible Dog," with a theory suggesting that the name "Chow" originated from a Cantonese word meaning "edible."

Another popular explanation regarding the breed's name stems from the 18th-century British Empire trading ships. The pidgin-English term "chow chow" referred to miscellaneous items in a ship's cargo list that were not individually listed. The peculiar-looking dogs acquired by British traders in China were included under the catchall term "chow chow" on the ship's manifest similar to saying "etcetera."

Chow Chows gained attention in the West when they were exhibited as the "Wild Dogs of China" at the London Zoo in the 1820s. However, it was not until Queen Victoria, a passionate dog lover acquired a Chow later in the 19th century that they truly gained popularity. Chow Chows were first showcased in America in the 1890s and were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1903.