Chow Chow

Temperament & Personality

Chow Chows are dignified and reserved dogs. They are very independent – Britannica warns they are “extremely independent, even stubborn, making it difficult to train”. As adults they’re fairly low-energy and not especially playful. Chow Chows tend to be aloof with strangers and may react aggressively toward unfamiliar dogs or people if not properly socialized. Loyal to their family, a Chow Chow often bonds strongly with one person and enjoys quietly following you around. They aren’t overly affectionate in public, but they do show loyalty in private – for example, many love sitting on or leaning against a family member’s feet. This breed is a natural guard dog due to its history, but it won’t bark much unless there is a real reason.

Care, Living Environment & Grooming

Chow Chows have thick double coats and are sensitive to heat. They need daily exercise (at least 20–30 minutes of walking or play) but won’t handle strenuous exercise in hot weather. A securely fenced yard is best if your Chow spends time outdoors. Indoors, they are relatively low-energy and quite clean, but they enjoy room to lounge.

Their grooming needs depend on coat type:

• Daily/Weekly: Rough-coated Chows need daily brushing to prevent mats; smooth-coated Chows can be brushed once or twice weekly. Pay special attention to the lion-like mane and any tangles. Clean the facial folds and keep eyes clear.
• Monthly: Trim nails; brush teeth; clean ears.

Chow Chows can overeat if given free access to food. Measure their meals and treat portions to prevent obesity. Always provide fresh water (they tend to drool and can pant in warm weather).

Training & Socialization

Training a Chow Chow takes patience. This breed is very independent and can have a stubborn streak. Begin socialization as a puppy by exposing your Chow to many people, places, and other pets to curb any aloofness or warriness. Chow Chows respond best to consistent, gentle leadership — harsh methods will backfire. Use positive reinforcement (treats, praise) to motivate your Chow. Even though they are intelligent, Chows often decide to follow instructions on their own terms, so short, engaging training sessions work best. Well-socialized Chow Chows can be dignified companions, but without socialization they may remain aloof or even defensive.

Health Considerations

Chow Chows typically live about 8–12 years. Several inherited health problems are common in the breed:

• Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia: joint malformations causing pain and arthritis.
• Patellar luxation: kneecap dislocation leading to an intermittent limp.
• Hypothyroidism: underactive thyroid; leads to weight gain and coat issues.
• Diabetes mellitus: increased risk in overweight or older Chows.
• Eye disorders: cataracts, entropion, or distichiasis (abnormal eyelashes) can irritate the eyes.
• Gastric cancer: Chow Chows have an unusually high risk of stomach carcinoma.
• Bloat (GDV): deep-chested dogs like Chows can suffer life-threatening stomach torsion.

Reputable breeders screen for hip/elbow dysplasia (OFA) and perform eye exams on young dogs. Regular vet check-ups, including thyroid blood tests and cardiac auscultation, are also recommended.

Cost of Ownership

Chow Chows are a medium-to-large breed with substantial grooming needs. Annual costs (around $2,000) typically break down into:

• Food: ~$500/year (quality kibble for a medium-large dog).
• Veterinary: ~$500–$600/year (routine exams, vaccines, preventatives).
• Insurance/Medical: ~$400–$500/year (many owners insure against hereditary issues).
• Grooming: ~$300/year (grooming tools, occasional professional groom for a thick coat).
• Supplies: ~$200/year (beds, toys, replacements).

Expect first-year costs to be much higher. Chow puppies can cost $1,500–$4,000, and initial expenses (spay/neuter, vaccines, crate, training classes, leashes) often exceed $1,000 in the first year. Budgeting ahead will help you prepare for your new dog.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Loyal and protective of family
• Dignified, regal appearance
• Generally quiet (does not bark much)
• Moderate exercise needs
• Very clean (minimal odor and drooling).

Cons

• Aloof or suspicious of strangers
• Requires daily coat care (especially with a long, rough coat)
• Can be stubborn
• Sensitive to heat
• Prone to some genetic health issues.

Fun Facts

• The Chow Chow is among the world’s oldest breeds – it has existed in China for thousands of years.
• Historically, Chows were bred for many jobs (sled-pulling, guarding, hunting) and were even eaten as food – The very name Chow Chow may come from the Chinese "chou" for edible, although most historians feel that the name is from the slang for curios.
• Chow Chows have a distinctive blue-black tongue, a trait shared only with the Chinese Shar-Pei.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Chow Chows shed a lot?

Yes. Chow Chows have a dense double coat and shed seasonally. Rough-coated Chows blow their undercoat in spring and fall, requiring daily brushing during those periods. Smooth-coated Chows shed less but still need regular brushing (about once or twice a week). Regular grooming controls loose hair and prevents mats.

Are Chow Chows good apartment dogs?

Chow Chows can adapt to smaller homes since they are generally calm and quiet, but they still need space to move. Their dense coat means they do best in cool environments. Because they don’t bark much, they can live in an apartment if you commit to daily outdoor walks. However, a fenced yard is ideal for letting them stretch their legs safely.

How much exercise does a Chow Chow need?

Moderate exercise is enough. Plan for about 30–60 minutes of walking or play each day. Chow Chows are not hyperactive, but they do enjoy a brisk walk or yard time. Avoid intense exercise and hot weather, as Chows tire easily in heat. Mental stimulation (toys, obedience) is also important since they are an intelligent breed.

Can first-time owners handle a Chow Chow?

Possibly, but Chows have unique challenges. They are very independent and can be stubborn, so training requires patience. Britannica notes they are “extremely independent, even stubborn”. First-time owners should commit to early socialization and firm, consistent training. If you’re new to dogs, be prepared for a strong-willed companion. For many, a Chow Chow is better suited to someone with some prior dog experience.

References

1. Britannica – Chow Chow
2. Hill's Pet Nutrition – Chow Chow
3. PetMD – Chow Chow