Chow Chow puppies and dogs

Chow Chows stop growing between 12 and 18 months of age. Like many dog breeds, Chow Chows may continue to fill out and develop muscle until they are around two years old.

The Chow Chow is a breed known for its lion-like mane and blue-black tongue. They have a dignified personality and are often characterized by their aloof nature.

Chow Chow dogs originated from China, where they have a long and storied history dating back thousands of years. They are one of the oldest dog breeds in the world and are believed to have served various roles throughout Chinese society, including as working dogs, guardians, and companions for nobility.

There is only one type of Chow Chow. Within the breed, there can be variations in coat color and texture, but these variations are not considered separate types or breeds but rather different expressions of the same breed standard.

Chow Chows live between nine and 15 years. However, individual lifespans can vary based on factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, healthcare, and overall lifestyle. Providing proper care, regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can contribute to helping dogs of all breeds live long and healthy lives.

Breeds that mix with Chow Chows include Akitas, Basset Hounds, and American Pit Bull Terriers. Other breeds that mix well with the Chow Chow include:

• Akita Chow (Chow Chow + Akita)

• Chow Basset (Basset Hound + Chow Chow)

• Pitchow (Chow Chow + American Pitbull Terrier)

• Chabrador (Chow Chow + Labrador)

• Chusky (Chow Chow + Siberian Husky)

Chow Chows have a lion-like mane, blue-black tongue, and sturdy build. They have a broad skull, a short, broad muzzle, and small, rounded ears that stand erect.

Chow Chows weigh between 45 and 70 pounds and stand 18 to 22 inches tall. These pups are a medium to large breed, with males typically growing larger than females.

Chow Chows come in red, black, blue, cinnamon (also known as fawn), and cream. These are the standard colors recognized by major kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club (AKC). Each of these colors can appear as solid coats or with shading, lighter markings, or other variations.

Yes, Chow Chows shed. Their dense double coat sheds moderately year-round, with heavier shedding occurring in the spring and fall. Regular grooming, including brushing their coat several times a week, can help manage shedding and keep their coat healthy and free of mats.

No, you should not shave a Chow Chow. These pups have a double coat that serves as insulation, helping them regulate their body temperature in both cold and hot weather. Shaving their coat can disrupt this natural insulation, making them more prone to sunburn, overheating, and other skin issues. Shaving a Chow Chow’s coat can also alter the texture and growth pattern of their fur, potentially causing long-term damage to their coat.

No, Chow Chows are not the only dogs with black tongues, but they are one of the few breeds known for this distinctive trait. Some other breeds may also have black spots or patches on their tongues, but a fully black tongue, as seen in Chow Chows, is relatively rare. Other breeds known to occasionally have black tongues include the Shar-Pei and some mixed-breed dogs.

No, Chow Chows are not inherently aggressive dogs, but they do have a strong sense of loyalty and may be assertive towards strangers or unfamiliar dogs. Early socialization, proper training, and responsible pet parenting are crucial for managing any potential aggression tendencies in Chow Chows.

Yes, Chow Chows can be friendly with their families, but they are independent and aloof, which can make them seem reserved or standoffish with strangers. Early socialization and positive training can help Chow Chows develop good manners and become more comfortable around unfamiliar people and situations.

Yes, Chow Chows can be good dogs for pet parents who understand and appreciate their unique characteristics. They are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and dignified demeanor, which can make them devoted companions. However, Chow Chows also have a strong-willed personality and may require consistent training and socialization to thrive.

No, Chow Chows don’t bark a lot. They may bark to alert their humans to potential intruders or unfamiliar situations, but they are not as vocal as some other breeds.

Yes, Chow Chows can be good family dogs under the right circumstances, but they may not be the best choice for every family. They are known for their loyalty and protective nature towards their families, and they can form strong bonds with their human companions. However, Chow Chows are also independent-minded and may be aloof or reserved with strangers, which can make them less suited for households with frequent visitors or small children.

Yes, Chow Chows can be good with kids, but they may not be a good choice for families with small children as they may not have a high tolerance for the unpredictable behavior of young children. Chow Chows prefer calm and respectful interactions, so they may be better suited for households with older children who understand how to behave around dogs.

As with any breed, it is recommended that your child is always supervised when interacting with your Chow Chow to keep both the child and dog safe.

Yes, Chow Chows can be good with cats, but their individual temperament and socialization play significant roles in their compatibility with cats. Some Chow Chows may have a high prey drive and may view cats as prey. However, with proper introductions and socialization from a young age, Chow Chows can learn to live peacefully with cats and other pets in the same household.

No, Chow Chows are not known to be good with other dogs. Chow Chows can be selective about their interactions with other dogs and may show dominance or aggression towards unfamiliar dogs, especially those of the same sex. Early socialization and positive experiences with other dogs are crucial for Chow Chows to develop good manners and appropriate social skills.

No, Chow Chows are not known to be easy to train. They are independent and strong-willed, which can make them challenging for inexperienced pet parents to train. They have a dignified demeanor and may be less motivated by traditional training methods involving repetition and obedience. However, with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques, Chow Chows can be trained successfully.

Yes, Chow Chows are smart. They have keen instincts, strong problem-solving abilities, and are independent thinkers.

Yes, Chow Chows are more prone to certain health issues, including:

• Hip dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a common orthopedic condition in Chow Chows and many other dog breeds. It occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to instability and eventual degeneration of the joint. This can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis.

• Elbow dysplasia: Elbow dysplasia is another orthopedic condition that commonly affects Chow Chows. It is caused by abnormal development of the elbow joint, leading to pain, lameness, and arthritis. Elbow dysplasia can be managed with medication, physical therapy, or surgery.

• Eye problems: Due to their facial structure, Chow Chows are predisposed to entropion, a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the surface of the eye, which can lead to irritation, corneal ulcers, and vision problems if left untreated. They are also prone to cataracts, a common eye condition that causes cloudiness in the eye and obstructs vision; glaucoma, a disease that causes excessive pressure on the eye, damages the optic nerve, and eventually leads to vision loss and blindness; and distichiasis, an abnormal growth of eyelashes on the margin of the eye, the extra eyelashes and abnormal location result in irritation to the eye.

• Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV): Also known as bloat, GDV is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood flow to the stomach and other organs. GDV requires emergency veterinary treatment and can be fatal if not treated promptly.

• Patellar luxation: Also known as slipped kneecaps, patellar luxation is a common problem in many dog breeds. It occurs when slight abnormalities cause the knee joint to slide in and out of place. This can cause pain and occasional lameness. Surgical treatment is available for severe cases, although many dogs lead normal lives without treatment.

• Renal cortical hypoplasia: This is an inherited condition that causes abnormal development of the kidney and eventually leads to renal failure. 

No, Chow Chows are not hypoallergenic dogs. They have a dense double coat that sheds moderately year-round, which can release dander and trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Chow Chows also produce saliva and other allergens that can contribute to allergies.

No, Chow Chows don’t need a lot of exercise, but they still benefit from regular physical activity to maintain their health and well-being. Daily walks, play sessions, or access to a securely fenced yard where they can roam and explore are typically enough to meet their exercise needs.

Chow Chows cost around $300 when adopted from a shelter or rescue. Buying a Chow Chow from a breeder can cost between $1,000 and $4,000.

The easiest way to adopt a Chow Chow is through a rescue that specializes in Chow Chows. A great place to start would be by starting a breed search on Adopt a Pet. The search will show you all the available Chow Chows in your area.

The cost of purchasing a Chow Chow dog can vary widely depending on factors such as the dog's pedigree, lineage, location, and breeder reputation. On average, Chow Chow puppies from reputable breeders may range from $1,000 to $4,000 or more. Show-quality Chow Chows or those from champion bloodlines may be priced higher. It’s essential to thoroughly research breeders, consider adoption options, and budget for the long-term care of a Chow Chow before bringing one into your home.