Origin

The chow chow is a very old breed found in China 2000 years back. They were used for many purposes like hunting, looking after livestock, pulling etc. Their structure is like the old fossils. It is said that an emperor had over 2000 pairs of this breed. Their fur was used in making woollen clothes and their skin and flesh is priceless in China. In the 1800 century this breed was brought to England and it was name after the British word “chow chow”. Nowadays they have become very popular as companion dogs.

General Description

The chow chow is very stout and bulky. They have wide chests and strong short stomach. They have a big fleshy head with a broad muzzle which is pointed. Their have round shaped small ears and a total curvy fat tail. The chow chow has thick body with a great deal of flesh in its head. The hair is surrounded around the head of the breed. It looks like a lion. It has a blue or black tongue with black lips. The chow chow has small eyes and thick limbs covered with fur. Their back legs are totally straight and thats why they look stiff when they walk. They have a smooth fury coat which may be either rough or very smooth. They are found in colours like red, blue, black, cream etc.

Character

Chow Chows are very good in nature but if they are not properly trained then they really become unpredictable in certain situations. They are large in size, strongly built and bold in nature. Their webbed paws make them great swimmers. They can become good watchdogs as they are very alert and courageous. Training this breed is easy as they are highly responsive but if not trained properly they become very dominating. Chow Chows hesitate in mixing with strangers. They should be treated with a great deal of understanding and respect by family members. If teased some of them even may bite you but not all behave like that. To prevent such types of aggressive behaviour they should be socialized and trained from early age. If proper training is provided then Chow Chows can become as gentle, sober and loving as other breeds.

Temperament

Chow Chows are very patient and have a politeness within them. They are very gentle and friendly in nature but they are really not good at mixing with the strangers. sometimes they are independent in nature and they are sometimes also very much protective of their family. These dogs are really have a bossing attitude and very dominant. That’s why they should be treated firmly. They are great companions and are very good to children.

Training

Early training and socialization classes are required. They are easy to train as they are very intelligent. They just do not do anything. They are very moody and will only do that what they like. Training should be firm, consistent and fair.

Health

The Chow Chows is often affected by hip dysplasia, ontropion, eye problems etc. Theie average life span is 10-15 years.