Coat
The Chow Chow has an abundant and profuse double coat that comes in two
different varieties: smooth or rough. The fur is particularly thick
around the neck area and resembles a lion's mane. The outer coat is
coarse and is supported by a dense under coat. The most common coat
colors are red, black, blue, tan, and gray. They are never
parti-colored. The Chow is a heavy seasonal shedder.
Overview
The Chow Chow is an ancient breed that originated in China more than
2000 years ago. They were an all purpose breed used for hunting,
herding, pulling, and protection. They are commonly referred to as "the
Chow", and are now used primarily as a companion.
Character
The Chow Chow is a true masterpiece of dignity and beauty. They possess
the unique characteristic of having a blue-black tongue. They are
keenly intelligent, have an independent spirit, and display a dignified
demeanor. The Chow is extremely aloof and discerning.
Temperament
The Chow Chow is most generally polite and patient. They are very loyal
and friendly with their family, but exceedingly reserved with
strangers. They most often will become attached and overly protective
of one particular member of the family. They are bossy, serious, and
obstinate. The Chow Chow is a very dominant breed that requires a
dominant owner. They are stubborn and have a mind of their own. They
are not good with other pets unless they have been raised with them
from an early age. They get along well with older well-behaved
children. The Chow expects to be treated with respect.
Care
The Chow Chow requires daily brushing. Proper grooming is essential to
keep their coat in peak condition. Bathe or dry shampoo as necessary.
They are prone to such health issues as entropin, heat prostration,
allergies, skin problems, and hip dysplasia. They have a very low
tolerance to anesthesia. The Chow does not do well in warm climates.
Training
The Chow Chow requires intense, extensive, and ongoing training in both
socialization and obedience. They are relatively easy to housebreak.
However, they will only perform tasks that make sense to them. They
need to be taught at an early age as to who the master is or they will
take over. They require firmness, fairness, and consistency. They do
not respond to harshness or a heavy-handed approach and will become
aggressive if treated in a disrespectful manner. The Chow is highly
talented as a watchdog or guard dog.
Activity
The Chow Chow has a tendency to be lazy. They prefer to stay indoors
where they are relatively inactive. They enjoy a small securely fenced
yard, but cannot remain outside for extended periods of time in hot
weather. They benefit from short daily walks. The Chow is well suited
for apartment dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise.
