Chow Chow

Overview

It is believed that Chow Chows go back over 2000 years and likely originated from either northern Tibet or Siberia. Depictions of Chow Chow-looking dogs can be found in Chinese pottery as early as the Han Dynasty. Looking like a cross between a bear and a lion, and weighing between 40-70 lbs, Chows many played many roles in their long history, including companion to Chinese Nobels, a pulling dog to merchants, and an all-around working pup. Their intimidating look and protective instincts have made them exceptional guard dogs over the centuries, even to this day. Once thought to ward off evil spirits, the Chow Chow’s most notable feature is their distinctive blue/black tongue. Puppies are born with pink tongues and they darken as they age. Their thick double coat comes in two varieties: rough and smooth. Notable celebrities with Chow Chows by their side are Elvis, Martha Stewart, Queen Victoria, and Sigmund Freud.

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for

Addison’s disease:

Addison’s disease in dogs, also known as hypoadrenocorticism, affects the hormone levels in the adrenal glands (small glands which are located near the kidneys.) With Addison’s disease, a dog’s body does not produce enough of these adrenal hormones.

Recommendations for Addison’s disease in :

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for

Respiratory Issues:

are fairly common in Chow Chows because of their super cute smushy faces. They may be susceptible to upper respiratory tract infections because their short noses and narrow nostrils make breathing more challenging.

Recommendations for Respiratory Issues in :

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for

Hip Dysplasia:

is an inherited disease in Chow Chows that may cause the hip joints not to form correctly, which may lead to mobility issues later on.

Recommendations for Hip Dysplasia in :

Chow Chow Personality

With their regal looks and devoted nature, Chow Chows are laid-back companions whose deep sparkling eyes and smushy faces are sure to melt your heart. If you are a neat freak, these pups may be the companion for you since they are clean and fastidious with their appearance. Just remember to brush them twice a week and give them a monthly bath. Their low exercise needs make Chows happy to take on city life, but keep in mind that these pups may overheat easily so they will prefer laying on the cool floor rather than lazing on the couch. These lion-maned dogs are easily trained and benefit from early socialization to help prevent aggressiveness. Chow Chows get along with cats and other pets as long as they are raised together. So if you're in the market for an easygoing companion that looks like a cross between a bear and a lion and will always have your back, you’ll love a Chow Chow!