Chow Chows 101

Non-Sporting

The Chow Chow is loyal to family but not particularly attentive to them. Aloof and dignified, this breed prefers to keep their own counsel. They like a regular schedule and familiar surroundings and activities, and are often described as "catlike." Take that as you will!

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Chow Chow puppies look like fuzzy "Star Wars" characters

Energy level
Energy LevelEnergy Level
Bark level
  • bark-very-vocalVery vocal
  • bark-talkativeTalkative
  • bark-as-neededAs needed
Size
17 to 20 inches tall
Group Size Large
Lifespan
8 to 12 years
020
Weight
45 to 70 lbs
0150

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Mature adult Chow Chow

5 years to 6 years

Risk level for common Chow Chow conditions

risk-level-bar

Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

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Urinary tract infection

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Skin allergies

Senior Chow Chow

7+ years

Risk level for common Chow Chow conditions

risk-level-bar

Arthritis

risk-level-bar

Hip dysplasia

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Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Chow Chow puppy

0 to 9 months

Risk level for common Chow Chow conditions

risk-level-bar

Gastroenteritis

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Trauma

risk-level-bar

Ear infection

Young adult Chow Chow

10 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Chow Chow conditions

risk-level-bar

Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

risk-level-bar

Skin allergies

risk-level-bar

Urinary tract infection

Mature adult Chow Chow

5 years to 6 years

Risk level for common Chow Chow conditions

risk-level-bar

Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

risk-level-bar

Urinary tract infection

risk-level-bar

Skin allergies

Senior Chow Chow

7+ years

Risk level for common Chow Chow conditions

risk-level-bar

Arthritis

risk-level-bar

Hip dysplasia

risk-level-bar

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Chow Chow puppy

0 to 9 months

Risk level for common Chow Chow conditions

risk-level-bar

Gastroenteritis

risk-level-bar

Trauma

risk-level-bar

Ear infection

Young adult Chow Chow

10 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Chow Chow conditions

risk-level-bar

Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

risk-level-bar

Skin allergies

risk-level-bar

Urinary tract infection

2-Chow chow standing up GettyImages-1093998084

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One of the most noteworthy Chow Chow proponents was Sigmund Freud, who had a number of them, some of whom attended therapy sessions. More recently, Martha Stewart has shared her life with Chow Chows.

Chow Chow coat care and colors

Chow Chows are recognized in long- and short-coated varieties, both with downy undercoats. Longer coats are prone to matting around the ears and in the ruff. Regular brushing and combing down to the skin will reduce shedding to a decent degree. Acclimate to nail trims early to prevent struggles down the line. Some Chows drool.

Chow Chow exercise & training

Loves walks

Exercise level

The Chow Chow is pretty low-key as far as exercise needs go. Regular, brisk walks should keep you both happy.

Independent study

Trainability

Chow Chows prefers to make their own decisions. An early start to training and socialization is advisable, as this is a breed not known for friendliness to strangers or other dogs. Acclimate to nail trims early to avoid future struggles.

Chow Chow fun facts

Top girl names for Chow Chows

100%

of Chow Chows are female

0%

of Chow Chows are male

Top boy names for Chow Chows

Nationwide loves Chow Chows of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like Chow Chows

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