Origin and Historical Significance

The Chow Chow, an ancient breed, has its origins traced back to central China, with evidence suggesting it predates the emergence of modern dog breeds in the 19th century. This breed has been identified as a basal breed, evolving from indigenous dogs in central China around 8,300 years ago. The breed's name is believed to derive from the Chinese word "Tsao," meaning "dog," and it was known as the "Peking Dog" in the United States until 1997.

Historical accounts mention large war dogs resembling black-tongued lions from Central Asia, and one Chinese ruler was said to own 5,000 Chows. The breed was also used to pull dog sleds through swampy terrain, as noted by Marco Polo in his travels to China in the 13th century. The Chow Chow was highly valued for its loyalty and strength, and it was often kept as a symbol of wealth and status.

Today, the American Kennel Club registers approximately 10,000 Chow Chows annually, while the Canadian Kennel Club registers around 350. The breed's popularity has fluctuated over the years, but it remains a cherished companion for many dog enthusiasts.

Physical Appearance

The Chow Chow is a sturdily built dog with a square profile, featuring a broad skull and small, triangular, erect ears with rounded tips. The breed is distinguished by its very dense double coat, which can be either smooth or rough, with particularly thick fur in the neck area, creating a mane-like appearance. This mane is a defining characteristic of the breed and is often a source of admiration.

The coat colors may include shaded/self-red, black, blue, cinnamon/fawn, or cream, but not all color varieties are recognized as valid in all countries. For example, the American Kennel Club recognizes standard colors as black, blue, red, cream, and cinnamon, while the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) allows for additional colors. The breed's eyes are typically deep set and almond shaped, and its tongue is a distinctive purple or blue-black, extending to the lips. This blue-black color is unique to the Chow Chow and is not found in other dog breeds, making it a striking feature.

The hind legs of the Chow Chow are very straight, resulting in a stilted gait, and the breed has a curly tail with thick hair that lies curled on its back. The nose should be black, but blue-coated Chow Chows can have a solid blue or slate-colored nose, which is acceptable in FCI countries but not in American Kennel Club contests. This variation in coloration adds to the breed's diversity and complexity.

Temperament and Behavior

The Chow Chow is known for its loyal and independent nature, often appearing aloof and alert. This breed is highly protective of its family and territory, which can sometimes lead to aggression if not properly socialized. The Chow Chow's temperament requires a confident and experienced handler who can provide consistent training and boundaries.

However, owning a Chow Chow can raise the cost of homeowners' insurance in the US due to the breed's potential for high-risk behavior. A study in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association found that Chow Chows were responsible for 8 out of 238 fatalities related to dog bites from 1979 to 1998. This highlights the importance of responsible ownership and training to mitigate these risks.

Health Considerations

Chow Chows are prone to several health issues. A study found that 6.44% of Chow Chows have hip dysplasia, compared to 3.52% overall. Hip dysplasia is a common concern in large breeds and can lead to pain and mobility issues. Another study found 4.3% of Chow Chows have cranial cruciate ligament deficiency, and 48.6% of dogs over the age of 2 have elbow dysplasia, the highest prevalence of any breed in the study. These conditions can significantly impact the dog's quality of life and may require surgical intervention.

Other health concerns include glaucoma, with 4.7% of Chow Chows affected. Glaucoma is an eye condition that can lead to blindness if not treated promptly. Alopecia X, atopic dermatitis, pemphigus foliaceus, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, stomach cancer, oral melanoma, diabetes mellitus, gastric cancer, and a high risk for autoimmune disease are also prevalent in the breed.

Coat and Grooming

The coat can be smooth or rough, and shedding is considered medium. The breed's distinctive mane and ruff require special attention.

While the coat may come in various colors, the American Kennel Club recognizes standard colors as black, blue, red, cream, and cinnamon. Non-standard colors such as fawn, white, and merle are not considered valid according to the breed standard. The FCI, on the other hand, allows for a wider range of colors, including brindle and tricolor. This difference in standards reflects the breed's diversity across different registries.

Lifestyle and Compatibility

The Chow Chow is a low-energy dog with low friendliness, making it less suitable for highly active families or those looking for a dog that is overly social. The breed's medium trainability and shedding level suggest that it requires a moderate amount of training and grooming.

Given its independent nature, the Chow Chow may not be the best choice for first-time dog owners. The breed's protective instincts and potential for high-risk behavior also mean that it may not be the best match for homes with young children or other pets.

Buying a Chow Chow: A Practical Checklist

• Research the breed's history and temperament to ensure it aligns with your lifestyle.
• Be prepared for the cost of grooming and potential veterinary expenses due to health concerns.
• Consider the breed's size, energy level, and shedding when choosing a living environment. The Chow Chow's stilted gait and potential for high-risk behavior may require a home with a secure yard and a safe environment.
• Look for a reputable breeder who can provide health clearances and ensure the dog is well-socialized. A reputable breeder will be able to provide information about the dog's lineage and potential health issues.
• Be aware of the breed's potential for high-risk behavior and ensure your home is secure. This includes securing outdoor areas and ensuring that the dog is supervised during interactions with children or other pets.