Chow Chow
DignifiedAloofLoyal
China · 8–12 years
About the Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is an ancient breed from northern China, believed to be one of the oldest dog breeds in existence, with a history spanning over 2,000 years. Distinguished by their lion-like mane, blue-black tongue, and deep-set almond eyes, Chows are dignified, serious, and fiercely independent. They were originally used as guard dogs, hunting companions, and sled dogs. Chow Chows are often compared to cats in temperament — clean, quiet, and aloof, they are loyal to their family but decidedly not eager-to-please dogs. They bond deeply but on their own terms.
Breed stats
- Height
- 17–20 in
- Weight
- 45–70 lbs
- Lifespan
- 8–12 years
- Group
- Non-Sporting
- Coat
- Dense, thick double coat (rough or smooth)
- Origin
- China
Coat colors
- Red
- Black
- Blue
- Cinnamon
- Cream
Temperament & ratings
Compatibility
Exercise & feeding
Daily exercise
30–45 min
per day recommended
Daily food
2–3 cups
high-quality dry food
Common health issues
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Entropion
- Hypothyroidism
- Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus)
Not every Chow Chow will develop these conditions, but awareness helps with early detection. Regular veterinary checkups and choosing a responsible breeder who health-tests their dogs are the best preventive measures.
Can Chow Chows eat...
- Can dogs eat blueberries?Safe
- Can dogs eat grapes?Toxic
- Can dogs eat bananas?Safe
- Can dogs eat chocolate?Toxic
- Can dogs eat watermelon?Safe
- Can dogs eat cheese?Caution
- Can dogs eat almonds?Caution
- Can dogs eat apples?Safe
Frequently Asked Questions
- The Chow Chow's blue-black tongue is one of the breed's most distinctive features. Chow puppies are actually born with pink tongues that darken to blue-black by 8 to 10 weeks of age. The blue-black color is caused by a high concentration of pigment cells (melanin) in the tongue tissue. The exact evolutionary reason is unknown, though various theories suggest UV protection, heat regulation, or simply a genetic trait that became fixed in the breed. Only two dog breeds have this characteristic — the Chow Chow and the Chinese Shar-Pei, both ancient Chinese breeds.
- Chow Chows are not inherently aggressive, but they are territorial, protective, and naturally suspicious of strangers. Without proper socialization from a very young age, they can become overly protective and potentially dangerous. They are known for being one-person or one-family dogs and may not welcome strangers entering their home or approaching their owner. Same-sex dog aggression is common. Chows require an experienced owner who understands their independent nature and provides early, extensive socialization. With proper upbringing, they are loyal and dignified companions, not aggressive dogs.
- Chow Chows are considered one of the most challenging breeds to train. They are highly intelligent but extremely independent and stubborn — they simply do not care about pleasing their owner in the way a Labrador or Golden Retriever does. They will evaluate each command and decide whether compliance is worthwhile. Positive reinforcement with high-value rewards works best, but even then, don't expect eager obedience. Harsh corrections will make a Chow completely uncooperative. Early socialization is far more important than formal obedience — a well-socialized Chow is manageable; an unsocialized one is potentially problematic.
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