Chow Chow

About the Chow Chow

The Chow Chow is an ancient breed from northern China, where it served as a hunter, guardian, and all-purpose working dog for over two thousand years. Instantly recognizable by its lion-like mane, deep-set eyes, and famous blue-black tongue, the Chow carries itself with a dignified, aloof reserve unlike almost any other breed.

Independent and cat-like, the Chow is loyal to its family but discerning and often standoffish with strangers. It's a quiet, clean, dignified companion that forms deep but undemonstrative bonds — a breed for those who appreciate a self-possessed dog with a strong sense of its own mind.

Breed at a Glance

Coat Colors

Chows come in five clear colors — red (the most common), black, blue, cinnamon, and cream — in both the familiar rough coat and a less common smooth variety. The blue-black tongue is present in all.

Temperament & Personality

The Chow is dignified, independent, and aloof — deeply loyal to its family yet reserved and discerning with outsiders. Often compared to a cat in temperament, it's clean, quiet, and self-possessed, bonding closely with its people while remaining its own dog at heart.

• Dignified and aloof — loyal to family, reserved with strangers.
• Independent and cat-like, forming deep but undemonstrative bonds.
• Quiet and clean, with a naturally reserved, watchful nature.
• Can be dog-selective and territorial; early socialization is essential.

Exercise & Enrichment Needs

Chows are calm, moderate-energy dogs whose exercise needs are modest. Daily walks keep them fit, but they're not built for or interested in strenuous activity.

• A daily walk or two satisfies this calm, dignified breed.
• Enjoys leisurely activity but isn't a running or fetching enthusiast.
• Adapts to apartment life given regular walks.
• Prefers cooler weather; the dense coat makes heat a challenge.

Grooming & Care

The Chow's profuse double coat — whether rough or smooth — needs consistent grooming to prevent matting and manage heavy seasonal shedding.

• Brush several times a week; daily during seasonal coat blows.
• Pay special attention to the mane and behind the ears where mats form.
• Bathe every few weeks; dry thoroughly to prevent skin issues.
• Never shave the double coat, which regulates temperature.

Health Considerations

Chows have some breed-specific concerns tied to their unique conformation and heavy coat.

• Hip and elbow dysplasia — screening of breeding dogs is recommended.
• Entropion — the deep-set eyes are prone to inward-rolling eyelids.
• Heat sensitivity — the dense coat makes overheating a real risk.
• Skin issues — the thick coat can hide problems; regular checks help.

Is a Chow Chow Right for You?

The Chow Chow is a dignified, clean, deeply loyal companion — ideal for owners who appreciate an independent, cat-like dog and can meet its grooming and socialization needs.

A Chow Chow may be perfect if you…

• Appreciate a dignified, independent, aloof dog over a needy one.
• Can commit to serious coat care and early, thorough socialization.
• Want a calm, clean companion and have experience with strong-willed breeds.

Think twice if you…

• Want an outgoing, universally friendly, or eager-to-please dog.
• Live in a hot climate or can't manage heavy grooming.
• Are a first-time owner unprepared for an independent temperament.