Chow Chow
An ancient and dignified breed with a striking lion-like mane and unique blue-black tongue, the Chow Chow is a loyal, independent companion best suited to experienced owners.
Personality Traits
History and Origins
The Chow Chow is one of the most ancient and distinctive dog breeds in the world, with a history that stretches back at least two thousand years in northern China and Mongolia. DNA analysis confirms the Chow Chow as one of the oldest breeds still in existence, genetically close to the wolf. In China, Chow Chows served as versatile working dogs, fulfilling roles as guardians, herders, sled pullers, and hunting companions.
The breed's name is thought to derive from the pidgin English term "chow chow," a general expression used by 18th century British merchants to describe miscellaneous goods imported from China. The first Chow Chows arrived in England in the 1780s, brought by merchants and sailors, and were initially exhibited as curiosities. Queen Victoria received a Chow Chow as a gift in the 1860s, helping to popularise the breed among the British public.
The Kennel Club recognised the Chow Chow in 1894, and the breed has maintained a dedicated following in the UK ever since. While never as numerically popular as some other breeds, the Chow Chow has always attracted admirers who appreciate its unique combination of dignity, independence, and quiet loyalty. The breed's distinctive blue-black tongue and lion-like mane make it one of the most visually striking dogs in the world.
Appearance
The Chow Chow is a sturdy, powerful, medium-sized dog with a distinctive lion-like mane and a unique blue-black tongue that sets it apart from all other breeds. They typically stand 46 to 56 cm at the shoulder and weigh between 20 and 32 kg. The body is compact and square, with a broad skull, a short, broad muzzle, and small, rounded ears that give the head a characteristically rounded appearance.
Two coat types are recognised: rough and smooth. The rough coat is the more commonly seen, with a profuse, stand-off outer coat and a dense, woolly undercoat. The mane, or ruff, around the head and neck is particularly impressive, creating the lion-like appearance that defines the breed. The smooth variety has a shorter, plush coat without the pronounced ruff. Both types come in five colours: red, black, blue, fawn, and cream.
The Chow Chow's hindquarters are notably straight, giving the breed its characteristic stilted, somewhat stiff gait. The tail is set high and carried closely over the back. Perhaps the most famous physical feature is the blue-black tongue and mouth, which is unique to the Chow Chow and the closely related Shar Pei.
Is a Chow Chow Right for You?
The Chow Chow is not a breed for everyone. They are independent, strong-willed, and reserved, requiring an experienced owner who understands and respects their unique character. They are not naturally demonstrative or eager to please, and they bear little resemblance in temperament to the more biddable, people-oriented breeds that most owners are accustomed to.
If you appreciate a dignified, quiet, and self-possessed companion and are willing to invest in proper socialisation and training, the Chow Chow can be a deeply rewarding dog to own. Their loyalty, once earned, is absolute, and the bond between a Chow Chow and a trusted owner is profound.
- Best suited to experienced dog owners
- Independent and can be aloof with strangers
- Requires extensive early socialisation
- Can be territorial and protective
- Heavy shedding, particularly during seasonal coat changes
- Low to moderate exercise needs
- Not ideal for first-time owners or families with young children
Living with a Chow Chow
Living with a Chow Chow is a unique experience that is quite different from owning most other breeds. These dogs are calm, dignified, and remarkably clean, often compared to cats in their fastidiousness and independence. They are not demanding dogs and are content to observe household activities from a comfortable distance rather than constantly seeking attention.
Chow Chows need around 45 to 60 minutes of exercise daily, which can be provided through a couple of moderate walks. They are not high-energy dogs and will not pester you for activity, but regular exercise is important for their physical and mental health. They tolerate cold weather well thanks to their thick double coat, but they can struggle in hot conditions and should be kept cool during summer.
At home, Chow Chows are quiet and well-mannered. They rarely bark without reason and are naturally clean dogs that are relatively easy to house train. They form strong bonds with their immediate family, but they are typically reserved, sometimes wary, with strangers and may not welcome unfamiliar visitors with open paws. This reserve is a natural part of their character, not a behavioural problem, and it should be respected rather than challenged.
Chow Chows can be territorial and may not always get along with other dogs, particularly of the same sex. Careful introductions and early socialisation are important. They can live with cats and other pets if raised together, but their prey drive means caution is advisable with small animals.
Training Tips
Training a Chow Chow requires patience, respect, and a good understanding of the breed's independent nature. Unlike many breeds, Chow Chows are not naturally eager to please and may question the point of repetitive exercises. They are intelligent dogs, but they prefer to use their intelligence on their own terms rather than following instructions they consider unnecessary.
Positive reinforcement is the only effective training method. Harsh corrections will damage your relationship with a Chow Chow and may provoke defensive behaviour. Be calm, consistent, and patient, and accept that progress may be slower than with more biddable breeds.
- Begin socialisation at the earliest possible age
- Expose them to many different people, dogs, and situations
- Keep training sessions short and varied
- Never use physical corrections or confrontational methods
- Teach them to accept handling and grooming from puppyhood
- Respect their independence rather than fighting against it
Temperament
The Chow Chow's temperament is fundamentally different from that of most popular companion breeds. These dogs are independent, dignified, and deeply loyal to their family, but they express their devotion quietly and on their own terms. They are not demonstrative dogs, and owners who expect constant tail-wagging enthusiasm will be disappointed. Instead, the Chow Chow offers a calm, steady presence, a quiet companionship that is all the more meaningful for being understated.
Chow Chows are naturally reserved with strangers and can be wary of unfamiliar people entering their territory. This is not aggression but rather a deep-seated protective instinct that has been bred into them over millennia. They are excellent watchdogs, alerting their owners to anything unusual without excessive barking, and their imposing presence is an effective deterrent in itself.
With their own family, Chow Chows are loyal to the point of devotion. They typically bond most strongly with one person, though they can be affectionate with all family members. Their love is quiet and dignified, expressed through proximity and attention rather than through overt displays of excitement.
It is important to understand that the Chow Chow's independence is an intrinsic part of the breed's character, not a flaw to be corrected. These dogs think for themselves, make their own decisions, and can be quietly stubborn when they disagree with what is being asked of them. Owners who appreciate this independence will find the Chow Chow a fascinating and deeply rewarding companion.
Exercise Needs
Chow Chows have moderate exercise needs, requiring around 45 to 60 minutes of daily activity. Two steady walks of 20 to 30 minutes each, combined with some time in the garden, is usually sufficient. They are not a high-energy breed and will not demand vigorous exercise, but regular walks are important for physical health, mental stimulation, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Their thick double coat means they handle cold weather with ease but can struggle significantly in hot or humid conditions. During summer, exercise should be restricted to the coolest parts of the day, and Chow Chows should always have access to shade and fresh water. Some owners clip the coat shorter for summer, though this is a matter of personal preference.
Chow Chows are not natural candidates for off-lead exercise in public areas, as their independent nature and potential wariness of unfamiliar dogs make reliable recall challenging. A secure, private garden is ideal for off-lead time. Mental stimulation through scent work, puzzle toys, and gentle training can supplement physical exercise and help keep their minds engaged.
Grooming
The Chow Chow's profuse double coat is a significant grooming commitment, particularly for the rough-coated variety. Regular brushing at least three times per week is essential to prevent matting and keep the coat in good condition. During the biannual coat change, when the thick undercoat sheds heavily, daily brushing may be needed for several weeks to cope with the volume of loose hair.
A thorough grooming session involves working through the coat layer by layer with a slicker brush and steel comb, paying particular attention to areas prone to matting such as behind the ears, around the ruff, under the legs, and the trousers on the hindquarters. The smooth-coated variety is less demanding but still requires regular brushing to manage shedding.
Bathing every six to eight weeks is sufficient, using a quality dog shampoo and conditioner. Ensure the coat is thoroughly dried after bathing, as moisture trapped in the dense undercoat can cause skin problems. Professional grooming can be helpful, particularly during heavy shedding periods.
Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing are also important. Start grooming from puppyhood to accustom your Chow Chow to being handled, as adult Chow Chows that are unaccustomed to grooming can be very difficult to manage.
Health
Chow Chows are generally robust dogs, but there are several health conditions that prospective owners should be aware of. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are both seen in the breed, and breeding stock should be scored through the BVA/Kennel Club scheme. The breed's straight hind legs can also contribute to knee problems, including luxating patella.
Eye conditions are relatively common in Chow Chows, including entropion (inward-rolling eyelids that cause irritation), cataracts, and glaucoma. Entropion is one of the most frequently seen issues and may require surgical correction to prevent damage to the cornea.
Thyroid problems (hypothyroidism) can affect Chow Chows, causing weight gain, lethargy, and skin changes. This condition is manageable with lifelong medication. Skin allergies and hot spots can also occur, particularly during summer or in dogs with particularly thick coats.
Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus) is a risk in deeper-chested Chow Chows. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding exercise immediately after eating can help reduce the risk. Choose a breeder who tests for hip and elbow dysplasia and eye conditions, and maintain regular veterinary check-ups throughout your Chow Chow's life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do Chow Chows have blue tongues?
The blue-black tongue is a unique feature of the Chow Chow (shared only with the Shar Pei). The exact genetic reason is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve a higher concentration of pigment cells in the tongue. Chow Chow puppies are born with pink tongues that darken within a few weeks.
Are Chow Chows aggressive?
Chow Chows are not inherently aggressive, but they are independent, territorial, and reserved with strangers. Without proper socialisation and training, this reserve can develop into unwelcome behaviour. Experienced ownership, early socialisation, and respectful handling are essential.
Are Chow Chows good with children?
Chow Chows can live with older, respectful children who understand how to interact with dogs appropriately. They are generally not recommended for families with very young children, as they may not tolerate rough handling or unpredictable behaviour. Supervision is always essential.
Do Chow Chows shed a lot?
Yes, Chow Chows are heavy shedders, particularly during their biannual coat blowout in spring and autumn. Regular brushing at least three times per week is essential, with daily sessions needed during heavy shedding periods. The smooth-coated variety sheds somewhat less than the rough.
Are Chow Chows easy to train?
No, Chow Chows are one of the more challenging breeds to train due to their independent, self-willed nature. They are intelligent but prefer to make their own decisions. Positive reinforcement, patience, and respect for their character are essential. They are not recommended for first-time owners.
Can Chow Chows cope with hot weather?
Chow Chows can struggle in hot or humid weather due to their thick double coat. Restrict exercise to cooler hours during summer, provide constant access to shade and fresh water, and consider keeping them in air-conditioned rooms during heat waves. Some owners opt for a shorter clip in summer.
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