Dog breed · Non-sporting / Utility
Chow Chow
An ancient northern Chinese breed with a lion-like ruff, a blue-black tongue and a notably reserved character.
Large9–12 yearsNorthern ChinaCan suit apartments
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Non-sporting / Utility
- Origin
- Northern China
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 20–32 kg (45–70 lb)
- Height
- 43–51 cm
- Lifespan
- 9–12 years
- Coat
- Very dense rough or smooth double coat
- Temperament
- AloofDignifiedIndependentLoyal to few
History
Depicted in Han dynasty artefacts and used for guarding, hunting and hauling in northern China.
Appearance
Stocky with a broad head, straight hind legs, deep ruff and a blue-black tongue.
Exercise and activity
Two short to moderate walks daily in cool weather.
Care and grooming
Brush three or more times weekly; the dense coat traps heat and mats readily.
Health considerations
- Entropion
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Heat intolerance
- Autoimmune skin disease
- Glaucoma