36" dog crate
Right-sized for a medium dog, cozy not cramped.
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Chow Chow
The dignified lion dog with a blue tongue
Non-Sporting group
China
Medium
Lifespan9-12 yr
Weight20-32 kg
Height46-56 cm
OriginChina
The Chow Chow is an ancient Chinese breed known for its lion-like mane, deep-set eyes, and distinctive blue-black tongue. Dignified, independent, and intensely loyal to its own family, it tends to be reserved and aloof with strangers.
Great points
- Calm and quiet indoors
- Deeply loyal to its family
- Clean and easy to house-train
- Striking, dignified appearance
Things to consider
- Aloof and wary of strangers
- Stubborn and hard to train
- Heavy seasonal shedding
- Prone to heat intolerance
The story
The Chow Chow is one of the oldest known dog breeds, originating in northern China over 2,000 years ago. It served as a versatile working dog used for hunting, herding, guarding, and pulling, and was also kept by Chinese nobility.
Training
Start socialization and training early, as the Chow Chow is independent and strong-willed. Use calm, consistent, reward-based methods, since harsh handling makes this breed shut down or resist.
Grooming
The thick double coat needs brushing several times a week, and daily during heavy shedding seasons. Pay attention to the dense fur around the neck and the wrinkles to prevent matting and skin issues.
Food & diet
Feed a measured, high-quality diet suited to a medium dog with low to moderate activity. Avoid overfeeding, as the breed gains weight easily.
Exercise
A couple of short to moderate daily walks are enough for this low-energy breed. Avoid exercise in hot or humid weather, as Chows overheat quickly.
Health to watch
Common concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, entropion and other eye problems, and heat sensitivity. The breed is also prone to skin conditions and a higher risk of certain cancers.
Fun fact. The Chow Chow is one of only a few dog breeds with a naturally blue-black tongue.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the Chow Chow have a blue tongue?
The blue-black tongue is a natural trait of the breed caused by pigment cells in the tissue. Puppies are born with pink tongues that darken within the first few months.
Are Chow Chows good family dogs?
They are devoted to their own family but tend to be aloof and protective with strangers. They generally do best with older, respectful children and early socialization.
Do Chow Chows shed a lot?
Yes. Their thick double coat sheds year-round and very heavily during seasonal coat changes, so frequent brushing is essential.
Essential gear for the Chow Chow
A few breed-right basics for a new Chow Chow.
Medium orthopedic bed
Joint support, sized to a medium frame.
View pickDe-shedding tool
Tames heavy shedding fast.
View pickComplete adult formula
Balanced everyday nutrition.
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