Breed Profile

DESCRIPTION

The Chow Chow is a member of the spitz family; it has been native to China for thousands of years. The two most distinctive features of the Chow Chow are its blue-black tongue and its almost straight hind legs, which makes it walk rather stilted. This breed is alert, independent and strong-willed; it is self-willed to the point of obstinacy. To its owner and family it is friendly. Because of his thick coat it is unsuited for hot climates. A well-bred and well-socialized Chow Chow can be just that an excellent family dog.

TEMPERAMENT

The Chow Chow is usually well mannered, but tends to be willful and protective. It is bossy, serious and very independent. It is often a one-person dog, very loyal to its family, though it may act reserved, even with them. This very dominant breed requires a dominant, experienced owner who is naturally fair and firm. Don’t expect great obedience from this breed, it is stubborn and with mind of its own. Be consistent at all times. The Chow Chow makes an excellent guard-dog.

GROOMING

Rough, abundant, dense and coarse with a pronounced ruff around head and neck. Smooth, has a hard dense outer coat with a soft undercoat with no ruff or feathering on its legs and tail.

HEALTH

Entropion (in turned eyelids), hip and elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation and heat sensitivity. Other health concerns include anesthesia sensitivity, cancer and bloat (gastric torsion). Bloat is a health issue to most dogs, being the second largest killer of dogs other than cancer, but Chow Chows can be particularly susceptible to it because of their deep chests.

EXERCISE

hows have a tendency to be lazy but will be a healthier dog if given regular exercise like a good daily walk.

TRAINING

They can be a challenge to train because of their strong-will. Training should begin early as a puppy, and is suggested for firm handlers.