The Chow Chow is not just a dog; he is a masterpiece of dignity, a living statue, and a link to the ancient world. With his lion’s mane ruff, his unique blue-black tongue, and his stilted gait, he is unmistakable.

He is often described as a cat in a dog’s suit. He is independent, scrupulously clean, and aloof with strangers. He does not jump on you; he acknowledges you. He does not beg for affection; he accepts it. To own a Chow Chow is to earn the respect of a creature that believes he is your equal, if not your superior.

History and Origin: The Dog of the Tang Dynasty

The Chow Chow is one of the oldest dog breeds on earth. DNA analysis confirms that it is a “basal breed,” meaning its genetic roots go back thousands of years, predating most modern dogs. He originated in China during the Han Dynasty (around 206 B.C.), though his ancestors likely existed much earlier. In his native land, he was an all-purpose working dog. He pulled carts, guarded temples, and hunted pheasants.

• The Emperors’ Favorite: Legend has it that one Emperor of the Tang Dynasty owned 2,500 Chow Chows, accompanied by 10,000 hunters.
• The Name: The name “Chow Chow” is not Chinese. It comes from the pidgin English term used by British sailors in the 18th century to describe the miscellaneous cargo (trinkets, dolls, and dogs) brought back from the East. In China, he is known as Songshi Quan (“Puffy-Lion Dog”).

Physical Characteristics: The Lion Dog

The Chow Chow is a powerful, compact, square-built dog. He is a masterpiece of balance and substance.

• Height: 17–20 inches (43-51 cm).
• Weight: 45–70 pounds (20-32 kg).

Unique Features

• The Tongue: The Chow’s most famous trait is his blue-black tongue. Puppies are born with pink tongues, which turn dark by the time they are 8 weeks old. The mouth and gums are also dark.
• The Stilted Gait: The Chow has straight hind legs with very little angulation at the hock. this gives him a unique, short, stilted stride. He moves with a pendulum-like rhythm rather than the reaching stride of other dogs.
• The Scowl: The loose skin on the head and brows gives him a perpetual scowl or “lordly” expression. This does not mean he is angry; it’s just his face.

Coat Types

There are two coat types:

1. Rough: The most common. Thick, abundant, and standing off from the body, forming a ruff around the neck (the lion look).
2. Smooth: Short, hard, and dense, with no ruff or feathering.

Temperament and Personality

The Chow Chow is a serious dog. He is not a Golden Retriever who loves everyone.

The Aloof Guardian

He is naturally suspicious of strangers. He will not bite without provocation, but he will not wag his tail at a burglar. He is territorial and protective of his home and family. He guards quietly.

The Cat-Like Nature

He is fastidious. Chows are famously easy to housebreak because, like cats, they are naturally clean and dislike soiling their living area. They are not clingy. A Chow is happy to be in the same room with you, but he doesn’t need to be in your lap.

The One-Person Dog

He usually bonds intensely with one or two people in the household. To them, he is affectionate, loyal, and playful (in a dignified way). To everyone else, he is polite but indifferent.

Training and Exercise Needs

Exercise: Moderate

He is a low-energy dog.

• Daily Needs: A calm morning and evening walk are sufficient. He is not a jogging partner.
• Heat Intolerance: The Chow cannot handle heat. His heavy coat and short muzzle make him prone to heatstroke. He should be kept indoors in air conditioning during the summer.

Training: Respect, Not Force

Training a Chow requires patience.

• Stubbornness: He is an independent thinker. He will ask, “Why?”
• Socialization: This is critical. Puppies must be socialized early and often with people, children, and other dogs to prevent their natural aloofness from turning into aggression.
• The “Blind Spot”: Because of his deep-set eyes and ruff, he has limited peripheral vision. Always approach a Chow from the front so you don’t startle him.

Health and Lifespan

The Chow Chow is a robust breed, living 8 to 12 years.

• Entropion: A condition where the eyelids roll inward, causing the eyelashes to scratch the cornea. This requires surgery to correct.
• Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Common in the breed.
• Thyroid Issues: Hypothyroidism is seen.
• Anesthesia Sensitivity: Chows can be sensitive to anesthesia, which vets need to be aware of during surgery.

Grooming and Care

If you own a Rough Chow, you own a part-time job.

• Brushing: He needs thorough brushing at least three times a week to prevent mats, which can be painful and trap moisture.
• The Mane: The ruff requires special attention to keep it standing up and looking majestic.
• Facial Folds: The wrinkles on the face (if present) must be kept clean and dry.
• Smooth Coat: The Smooth Chow requires much less grooming (weekly brushing is fine).

Is a Chow Chow Right for You?

The Chow Chow is a dog for a connoisseur.

Yes, if:

• You appreciate independence. You don’t want a needy dog.
• You are a quiet person. You want a calm, silent companion.
• You have no small children. Older, respectful children are fine, but toddlers can be too chaotic for a Chow.
• You are willing to socialize. You understand the importance of training.

No, if:

• You want a “party dog.” He hates chaos and strangers hugging him.
• You live in a hot climate. It is dangerous for him.
• You are a first-time owner. His will is strong.
• You are on a budget. Grooming and potential eye surgeries can be expensive.

If you earn his respect, the Chow Chow will give you a loyalty that is deep, silent, and unwavering. He is a majestic ancient soul who will guard your heart as fiercely as he guards his home.