Names
Chow Chow
Xiong Gou
Songshi Quan

Origin
China, Ancient Times.
Some believe the chow chow to be a cross between the Old Mastiff of Tibet and the Samoyed. They were first used as hunting dogs for pheasant and partridge. The Chow Chow became popular during the Victorian era in England and first appeared in the U.S Around 1890

Use
Companion

Life Expectancy
This breed can live as long as 10 -12 years of age

Weight & Height
35 to 70 pounds & 18 to 22 inches tall

Known Health Problems
Hip Dysplasia, Anesthesia Sensitivity, Cancer, Entropion, Heat Sensitivity, Knee Problems.

Physical Description
Medium size, sturdy dog that has a square body and large, broad head with a short muzzle. The ears are prick with rounded tips. The eyes are dark and almond shaped. The tongue of the Chow Chow is blue and the nose is large and black. The tail is set high, is plummed and is carried over the back.

Temperament
This breed is intelligent & friendly towards its family, they have a tendancy to be stubborn & difficult to train. They can be unpredictable with other animals so care should be taken before bringing other animals into the home.

Training
Chows should be socialized and trained early. They can be stubborn with training. Always assume the position of pack leader with these dogs.

Living Conditions
Apartment life is ok as long as the chowchow is exercised daily

Grooming
Brush twice a week

Exercise
Needs a fair amount of outdoor exercise daily

Coat Texture
Double coated with the outer coat being rough or smooth.. The rough coat is longer and abundant, there is ruff around the dogs neck.

Coat Colors

Puppies

Image courtesy of Thunderbolt Chows
3-6 pups per litter. Pups have big heads and may be difficult for mother to deliver and may required a c-section. Puppies need early socialization with people..

Recognition
Continental Kennel Club
American Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
American Pet Registry
Fédération Cynologique Internationale
Canadian Kennel Club
National Kennel Club