Chow Chow

The Chow Chow is one of the world’s oldest recognizable dog breeds, with depictions on Chinese pottery and sculptures dating back to the Han Dynasty (around 206 B.C.). Its exact origins are somewhat mysterious, but it’s believed to have evolved from ancient Spitz-type dogs in China, Mongolia, or Siberia. For centuries, Chow Chows were versatile working dogs in China, employed for hunting (even bears and wolves), herding livestock, guarding temples and homes, and pulling carts or sleds. Sadly, they were also sometimes used as a source of food and their fur for clothing.

These distinctive dogs were largely unknown outside of China until the late 18th and 19th centuries when British merchants and diplomats began bringing them back to England. Queen Victoria took an interest in the breed in the late 1800s, which helped boost their popularity in the Western world. Their unique appearance, including the lion-like ruff, scowling expression, and blue-black tongue, captivated dog fanciers. The Chow Chow was first exhibited in the United States in the 1890s and recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1903.

The Chow Chow is known for its dignified, aloof, and independent temperament, often described as cat-like. They are not overly demonstrative with their affection, even with family, but they are deeply loyal and devoted in their own reserved way. They tend to be wary of strangers and can be quite protective of their home and people, making them excellent watchdogs. This natural suspicion requires extensive early socialization to prevent them from becoming overly shy or aggressive.

Chow Chows are generally quiet dogs and are known for their cleanliness. They are intelligent but also possess a stubborn streak, which means they are not always eager to please in the way some other breeds are. They require an owner who understands and respects their independent nature and can provide firm, consistent, but fair leadership. They are typically one-person or one-family dogs and may not readily accept everyone they meet.

Chow Chows come in two coat types: rough and smooth. Both are double-coated and require regular grooming, though the rough coat is more demanding.

• Rough Coat: This variety has a profuse, dense, and off-standing outer coat with a soft, woolly undercoat, forming the characteristic ruff or mane around the head and neck. They require thorough brushing at least two to three times a week to prevent matting and manage shedding. A slicker brush, pin brush, and a metal comb are essential tools.
• Smooth Coat: While shorter, the smooth coat is still very dense and also benefits from regular weekly brushing to remove loose hair.

Both coat types shed heavily seasonally (blowing their coat). During these periods, daily brushing will be necessary. Baths can be given as needed, but it’s crucial to ensure their dense coat is rinsed thoroughly and dried completely to prevent skin issues. Regular nail trims, ear cleaning, and dental care are also vital. Their facial wrinkles, though not as pronounced as some breeds, should be kept clean and dry.

Despite their sturdy build and working heritage, Chow Chows have moderate exercise needs. They are not high-energy dogs that require hours of running. Several brisk daily walks and some playtime in a securely fenced yard are typically sufficient to keep them physically and mentally content. They enjoy leisurely strolls where they can sniff and explore.

It’s important to note that Chow Chows can be very sensitive to heat due to their thick double coats. Exercise should be avoided during the hottest parts of the day in warm weather, and they should always have access to shade and fresh water. They are not typically candidates for intense canine sports that require high-speed running or endurance, but they can enjoy obedience or rally. Due to their independent nature, off-leash exercise should only be in very secure areas, as their recall may not always be reliable if something catches their interest.

Chow Chows can be prone to certain genetic health conditions. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for these issues. Potential health concerns to be aware of include:

• Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Malformation of these joints, common in many breeds.
• Entropion/Ectropion: Eyelid abnormalities where the eyelid rolls inward (entropion) or outward (ectropion), causing irritation.
• Glaucoma and Cataracts: Eye conditions that can affect vision.
• Allergies: Skin allergies (atopy) can be common, leading to itching and skin infections.
• Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland.
• Patellar Luxation: Dislocation of the kneecap.
• Heat Sensitivity/Heatstroke: Due to their thick coats and brachycephalic (shorter muzzle compared to some Spitz types) tendencies, they are very susceptible to overheating.

Choosing a reputable breeder who provides health clearances, along with regular veterinary check-ups, proper grooming, and careful management in warm weather, are key to a Chow Chow’s health and well-being.

Training a Chow Chow requires patience, understanding, consistency, and a deep respect for their independent and sometimes stubborn nature. They are intelligent but are not always driven by a desire to please in the same way as some other breeds. They need to see a reason for doing something and respond best to fair and respectful training methods.

Key aspects of training a Chow Chow include:

• Early and Extensive Socialization: This is absolutely crucial. Chow Chows need to be exposed to a wide variety of people, sights, sounds, and experiences from a very young age to help them become well-adjusted and to temper their natural wariness of strangers and potential for same-sex dog aggression.
• Positive Reinforcement: Use treats, praise, and gentle encouragement. Harsh methods or physical corrections will likely be met with resistance or can damage their trust.
• Firm, Confident, and Consistent Leadership: They need an owner who can establish themselves as a calm and fair leader.
• Keep Sessions Short and Interesting: Their independent nature means they can get bored with repetitive tasks.
• Respect Their Space: Chow Chows are not always cuddly and may not appreciate overly effusive affection from everyone.

Puppy classes and continued obedience training with an experienced trainer who understands independent breeds are highly recommended.