Known for their fluffy, beautiful coats, Chows are protective and loyal. Find out if they’re a great fit for your home.
One of the oldest dog breeds, the Chow Chow has been seen in paintings from Mongolia and Northern China dating as far back as 206 BC. However, it wasn’t until the late 18th century that the name Chow Chow came about thanks to British merchants who transported the dogs across continents — miscellaneous items in their cargo, including the dogs, were referred to as “chow chow,” and the name stuck.
The Chow Chow breed’s personality has been compared to that of a cat: they tend to be aloof, reserved, independent and dignified, but with the loyalty and devotion of a dog. If you’re looking for a giant teddy bear of a dog to add to your family, a Chow might be the perfect fit for you!
Why We Love the Chow Chow Breed
- Chows don’t need a ton of regular exercise, so they’re great dogs for apartments and condos.
- These dogs are incredibly loyal, and create strong bonds with their families.
- Chow Chows are also protective of their loved ones, and make good watchdogs for their owners.
Things to Consider
- These dogs tend to be pretty aloof and independent. Chow Chow puppies should be socialized at an early age to ensure they’re well behaved with strangers and other animals.
- Due to their deep-set eyes, Chows have limited peripheral vision. They should always be approached from the front to avoid startling them.
- The Chow Chow breed has a beautiful coat, but it requires regular maintenance to avoid matting and odor. They need to be brushed multiple times a week, and go through heavy shedding periods each year.
Why Rescue?
Aggressive breeding of Chows causes common health conditions to become more apparent, and many of these health concerns aren’t noticeable until the dog is an adult. Hip dysplasia, which can cause severe pain and lameness in one or both rear legs, and entropion, an eye condition that requires surgery to correct, are both common in over-bred Chow Chows. Before you go looking for Chow breeders, consider adopting one of these pups from a shelter!
