Chow Chow
Breed Description

The Chow Chow carries a rich heritage of names that reflect its journey across cultures and centuries. In its native China, this distinguished breed has been known by several traditional names that capture different aspects of its character and appearance. The Chinese name "Songshi Quan" remains one of the most historically significant, translating roughly to "puffy lion dog," a reference to the breed's magnificent mane-like coat and regal bearing that has captivated admirers for millennia.

Another traditional Chinese designation is "Tang Quan," which connects the breed to the illustrious Tang Dynasty when these dogs enjoyed particular favor among the imperial court and aristocratic families. This name carries historical weight, linking the modern Chow Chow to its prestigious past in Chinese society where these dogs were symbols of wealth, power, and spiritual protection.

In various Western countries, the breed has accumulated regional nicknames and variations that reflect local cultural interpretations of its distinctive characteristics. Some English-speaking regions refer to them simply as "Chows," while others use the more formal "Chow Chow Dog" in official contexts. The breed's most remarkable physical feature, its unique blue-black tongue, has inspired descriptive names such as "blue-tongue dog" among enthusiasts, though this is more of a colloquial reference than an official designation.

German-speaking countries often refer to the breed as "Chow-Chow" with the hyphenated spelling, while French speakers typically use "Chow-Chow" as well, maintaining the English pronunciation. In some historical texts and breed registries, you may encounter the term "Chinese Edible Dog," though this reference to historical dietary practices is considered inappropriate and insensitive in modern contexts, where the breed is valued exclusively as a companion animal.

The Chow Chow presents itself as a living testament to canine dignity and ancient breeding artistry. This remarkable breed combines physical characteristics that are both striking and functional, creating a dog that appears simultaneously powerful and refined. With its square, compact build and distinctive facial features, the Chow Chow commands immediate attention and respect wherever it appears, embodying thousands of years of selective breeding for both utility and beauty.

Perhaps no other breed feature is as immediately recognizable as the Chow Chow's extraordinary blue-black tongue, a characteristic shared with only one other breed worldwide. This unique trait, combined with the breed's small, deep-set eyes and scowling expression, creates an unmistakable countenance that conveys both intelligence and aloofness. The breed's eyes, typically dark brown and almond-shaped, peer out from beneath a broad skull with remarkable intensity, suggesting a mind that observes and evaluates everything in its environment.

The Chow Chow's coat represents one of nature's finest examples of protective outerwear, consisting of a dense, weather-resistant double layer that has enabled the breed to thrive in harsh northern climates for centuries. The outer coat features coarse guard hairs that stand away from the body, while the undercoat provides insulation and warmth. This magnificent coat forms a distinctive ruff around the neck and shoulders, creating the lion-like appearance that has made the breed famous throughout the world.

Color variations in the Chow Chow range from solid red and black to cream, blue, and cinnamon, with each shade displaying its own unique beauty and character. Red Chow Chows often display the deepest, richest coat colors, while cream specimens present an elegant, lighter appearance. Black Chow Chows showcase the breed's dramatic beauty with their dark, lustrous coats, and blue specimens display a unique dilute coloration that appears almost silver in certain lighting conditions.

The breed's movement pattern sets it apart from virtually all other dogs, with a distinctive stilted gait that results from unique rear leg angulation. This characteristic movement creates an impression of controlled power and deliberate purpose, reflecting the breed's ancient heritage as both working dog and noble companion. The Chow Chow's tail, carried high over the back and covered with abundant feathering, completes the breed's distinctive silhouette and adds to its overall impression of dignity and self-possession.

American Kennel Club (AKC)

The AKC standard for the Chow Chow describes a powerful, compactly built dog with substantial bone and strong muscular development. The breed should present a well-balanced outline with the distance from the tip of nose to stop approximately equal to the distance from stop to occiput. The characteristic expression is essentially scowling, dignified, and sober. The coat should be abundant, dense, straight, and stand-off, with the texture being rather coarse. The unique blue-black tongue is mandatory, and the breed's distinctive stilted gait should be short and choppy. Males should measure 19-20 inches at the shoulder, females 18-19 inches. The standard emphasizes the breed's independent, dignified, and somewhat aloof temperament as essential breed characteristics that should never be confused with aggression or shyness.

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

Under FCI guidelines, the Chow Chow is classified as a Spitz and primitive type breed, emphasizing its ancient heritage and fundamental characteristics. The FCI standard describes the breed as compact, well-balanced, and lion-like in appearance with a proud, dignified bearing. The head should be large in proportion to the body, with a broad, flat skull and well-developed stop. The characteristic blue-black tongue and mouth are essential breed features that must be present in all specimens. The coat may be either rough or smooth, with the rough coat being dense and abundant while standing off from the body. The FCI places particular emphasis on the breed's calm, independent temperament, noting that while naturally reserved with strangers, proper socialization should prevent any aggressive tendencies. The standard also details the breed's unique straight-legged gait as a defining characteristic.

United Kennel Club (UKC)

The UKC standard characterizes the Chow Chow as a sturdy, powerful, and well-proportioned dog that embodies dignity and aloofness while maintaining loyalty to its family. The standard emphasizes the breed's ancient Chinese heritage and its role as both companion and guardian. Physical characteristics highlighted include the distinctive blue-black tongue, small triangular ears carried erect, and the abundant double coat that forms a pronounced ruff around the neck. The UKC standard describes the ideal temperament as independent but not stubborn, aloof but not shy, and protective but not aggressive. The breed's movement should display the characteristic stilted action that results from the straight rear leg angulation. Colors accepted include red, black, blue, cinnamon, and cream, with clear, solid colors preferred. The standard notes that while the breed can be reserved with strangers, proper early socialization should ensure stable, predictable temperament in all situations.

Other Organizations

The Canadian Kennel Club maintains a standard very similar to the AKC version, with particular emphasis on the breed's distinctive physical characteristics and dignified temperament. The Kennel Club of Great Britain provides detailed specifications for both rough and smooth coat varieties, noting that both types should maintain the same fundamental breed characteristics and temperament. The Australian National Kennel Council standard emphasizes the breed's adaptability to various climates while maintaining its essential characteristics. Many European kennel clubs place additional emphasis on the breed's historical working abilities and its role in Chinese culture. Asian breed organizations often include more detailed descriptions of traditional color preferences and may reference historical breeding practices that shaped the modern breed. Most international standards agree on the essential elements: the blue-black tongue, distinctive coat, compact build, unique gait, and the reserved but loyal temperament that defines the Chow Chow breed.

The history of the Chow Chow weaves through thousands of years of Chinese civilization, making it one of the world's most ancient and culturally significant dog breeds. Evidence of dogs closely resembling the modern Chow Chow appears in Chinese art and artifacts dating back to the Han Dynasty, with some archaeological findings suggesting an even earlier presence in northern China and Mongolia. These early ancestors likely served multiple purposes in ancient Chinese society, from hunting companions to guardians of homes and temples.

During China's imperial periods, the Chow Chow achieved remarkable status among the nobility and wealthy merchant classes. The breed's association with power and prestige grew particularly strong during the Tang Dynasty, when emperors and court officials maintained extensive kennels of these magnificent dogs. Historical records from this era describe elaborate breeding programs designed to maintain the breed's distinctive characteristics while developing different color varieties to suit imperial preferences.

The breed's spiritual significance in Chinese culture cannot be overlooked, as Chow Chows frequently served as temple guardians in Buddhist and Taoist religious complexes. These dogs were believed to possess protective powers against evil spirits, and their blue-black tongues were often considered supernatural features that enhanced their spiritual authority. This religious connection elevated the breed beyond mere working animals to creatures with mystical importance in Chinese spiritual traditions.

The Chow Chow's introduction to the Western world began in the late 18th century through British maritime trade with China. English merchants and sailors encountered these exotic dogs in Chinese ports and were immediately struck by their unique appearance and dignified demeanor. The first documented Chow Chows to reach England arrived around 1780, though reliable breeding programs didn't begin until the 1880s when dedicated enthusiasts began systematic importation and development efforts.

Victorian England provided fertile ground for Chow Chow development, with wealthy dog fanciers captivated by the breed's exotic origins and striking appearance. The establishment of the first Chow Chow club in England in 1895 marked the beginning of formal breed development outside Asia. English breeders worked diligently to maintain the breed's essential characteristics while adapting breeding practices to British standards and climate conditions.

The breed's expansion into North America occurred in the early 1900s, with the first recorded imports arriving in the United States around 1903. American dog enthusiasts quickly embraced the Chow Chow's unique qualities, leading to American Kennel Club recognition in 1903 and the formation of the Chow Chow Club of America in 1906. These early American breeding programs focused on establishing consistent type while maintaining the breed's ancient characteristics.

The early 20th century brought both challenges and opportunities for Chow Chow development worldwide. Two world wars disrupted breeding programs and reduced population numbers, while political upheavals in China threatened the breed's survival in its homeland. However, dedicated breeders in Western countries maintained breeding programs that preserved genetic diversity and breed type during these difficult periods.

The post-war era ushered in a renaissance for the Chow Chow breed as improved transportation and communication allowed for international collaboration between breeders. This period saw the establishment of breed clubs in numerous countries and the development of coordinated breeding programs designed to maintain breed health and genetic diversity. Modern DNA analysis has confirmed the Chow Chow's ancient heritage and its close relationship to other primitive dog breeds, validating the breed's historical significance and the importance of preservation efforts.

Contemporary Chow Chow breeding focuses on maintaining the breed's distinctive characteristics while addressing health concerns that affect the population. International cooperation between breed clubs and registries ensures that breeding decisions support genetic diversity and overall breed health. The breed's journey from ancient Chinese temples to modern family homes illustrates both its adaptability and the enduring appeal of its unique combination of beauty, dignity, and loyalty.

Throughout its extensive history, the Chow Chow has demonstrated remarkable versatility in fulfilling various roles within human society. Originally developed in northern China, these dogs served multiple essential functions that shaped their physical characteristics and temperamental traits. Their primary role as estate guardians required a combination of intelligence, loyalty, and natural protective instincts that could be relied upon to safeguard property and people without constant human supervision.

The breed's function as a working dog in harsh northern climates demanded exceptional physical resilience and adaptability. Chow Chows worked alongside their human companions in various capacities, from hauling sledges and carts to herding livestock in mountainous regions. Their thick, weather-resistant coats and compact, powerful build made them ideally suited for these demanding tasks, while their independent nature allowed them to make decisions and solve problems without constant direction.

Hunting represented another significant function for the Chow Chow in its native environment, where these dogs pursued large game including wild boar and bears in the forests and mountains of northern China. Their courage, tenacity, and physical strength made them valuable hunting partners, while their ability to work independently allowed them to track and corner dangerous prey until human hunters could arrive. This hunting heritage contributed to the breed's strong prey drive and fearless attitude toward challenges.

The spiritual and ceremonial functions of the Chow Chow in Chinese culture extended beyond practical working roles to encompass religious and cultural significance. Temple dogs served as guardians of sacred spaces and were believed to possess supernatural powers that could ward off evil influences. This spiritual role elevated the breed's status and contributed to the development of their dignified, aloof demeanor that continues to characterize the breed today.

In the modern era, the Chow Chow's function has evolved to focus primarily on companionship and family protection, though many of their ancestral instincts remain strong. Contemporary Chow Chows excel as family guardians, using their natural alertness and protective instincts to watch over their human families while maintaining the discernment to distinguish between genuine threats and normal daily activities. Their intimidating appearance often serves as an effective deterrent to potential intruders, while their loyalty ensures dedicated protection of family members.

The breed's calm, stable temperament has made them suitable for various therapeutic applications, particularly in settings where a quiet, dignified presence is beneficial. Some Chow Chows serve as therapy dogs in hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation facilities, where their gentle nature and soft coat provide comfort to patients and residents. Their naturally reserved demeanor makes them well-suited for environments where excessive enthusiasm might be disruptive or overwhelming.

Modern Chow Chows also participate in various canine sports and activities, though their independent nature means they approach these pursuits differently than more traditionally obedient breeds. In conformation showing, their natural dignity and striking appearance make them standouts in the show ring. Some Chow Chows participate successfully in obedience competitions, rally events, and even agility trials, though their motivation typically comes from their relationship with their handler rather than an inherent desire to please.

The breed's function as an urban companion has become increasingly important as more Chow Chows live in city environments. Their moderate exercise requirements, relatively quiet nature, and adaptability to apartment living make them suitable for urban lifestyles, provided their owners understand and respect their need for mental stimulation and consistent routine. Their protective instincts remain valuable in urban settings, where they serve as excellent watchdogs for apartments and homes.

Perhaps most importantly, the modern Chow Chow functions as a bridge to ancient canine heritage, representing one of the oldest documented breeds and maintaining characteristics that connect contemporary dog ownership to thousands of years of human-canine partnership. Their preservation serves not only practical purposes but also cultural and historical significance, maintaining genetic diversity and ancient traits that might otherwise be lost to modern breeding practices focused solely on appearance or performance in specific activities.

Understanding Chow Chow behavior requires appreciation for the breed's ancient heritage and the traits that have been carefully preserved through thousands of years of selective breeding. These dogs exhibit a complex behavioral profile that combines fierce loyalty with notable independence, creating companions that are deeply devoted yet decidedly different from breeds developed for constant human interaction and guidance. The Chow Chow's behavioral characteristics reflect their original functions as guardians, hunters, and spiritual protectors in Chinese society.

The most defining behavioral trait of the Chow Chow is their remarkable independence and self-reliance. Unlike breeds that constantly seek human approval and direction, Chow Chows prefer to assess situations independently and make their own decisions about appropriate responses. This independence manifests in various ways throughout daily life, from their approach to training and exercise to their social interactions with both humans and other animals. Owners must understand that this independence is not stubbornness or defiance but rather an ingrained characteristic that defines the breed's essential nature.

Territorial behavior plays a central role in Chow Chow psychology, stemming from their ancient function as estate guardians. These dogs naturally establish boundaries around their home, family, and possessions, becoming protective of these defined spaces without requiring specific training to do so. This territorial instinct expresses itself through careful observation of surroundings, strategic positioning within the home, and measured responses to perceived intrusions. Proper socialization helps channel these instincts appropriately while maintaining the breed's natural protective abilities.

The Chow Chow's communication style differs significantly from more expressive breeds, relying on subtle body language and positioning rather than vocalizations or dramatic gestures. These dogs communicate their emotions and intentions through ear position, tail carriage, facial expression, and changes in posture. Experienced Chow Chow owners learn to read these subtle signals, developing an understanding of their dog's moods, needs, and responses to various situations. This understated communication style reflects the breed's dignified nature and ancient heritage.

Social behavior in Chow Chows requires careful consideration and management, particularly regarding interactions with strangers and other animals. The breed's natural aloofness with unfamiliar people is not fearfulness but rather a cautious assessment period during which the dog evaluates new individuals. This behavior serves the breed's protective function while ensuring that social interactions remain controlled and appropriate. Early and ongoing socialization helps Chow Chows distinguish between normal social situations and genuine threats.

Play behavior in Chow Chows tends to be more controlled and purposeful than in many other breeds, reflecting their serious, dignified nature. While these dogs can enjoy play activities, they typically prefer games that engage their intelligence and problem-solving abilities rather than purely physical activities. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and training exercises often provide more satisfaction than rougher play styles. Understanding and respecting these preferences helps owners develop appropriate activity programs for their Chow Chows.

The breed's response to children requires special attention and proper introduction protocols. Chow Chows can form strong bonds with children who treat them with respect and understand their boundaries, but they have little tolerance for rough handling, teasing, or unpredictable behavior. These dogs work best with older children who can appreciate the dog's need for personal space and respond appropriately to the animal's communication signals.

Environmental awareness and adaptability represent important aspects of Chow Chow behavior, as these dogs tend to be highly sensitive to changes in their surroundings and routine. They often establish preferred locations within the home for rest and observation, and they may become stressed if their environment is frequently disrupted. Providing consistent routines and predictable environments helps Chow Chows feel secure and comfortable, reducing stress-related behavioral problems.

The breed's learning style and training responsiveness reflect their independent nature and intelligence. Chow Chows are capable of learning complex behaviors and commands, but they prefer to understand the purpose behind requests rather than simply following orders. Positive reinforcement methods work best, particularly when combined with consistency, patience, and respect for the dog's individual personality. Harsh training methods typically prove counterproductive and can damage the trust relationship essential for successful training.

Stress signals in Chow Chows may be subtle and easily overlooked by inexperienced owners. Changes in appetite, grooming habits, activity levels, or social interaction patterns may indicate stress or discomfort. Understanding these signals allows owners to address problems before they become serious behavioral issues. The breed generally responds well to consistent routines and clear expectations, which help minimize stress and promote psychological well-being.

Integrating a Chow Chow into family life requires understanding and respecting the breed's unique approach to social relationships and household dynamics. These dogs form deep, lasting attachments to their human families while maintaining their characteristic independence and dignity. Unlike breeds that seek constant attention and interaction, Chow Chows express their devotion through presence, protection, and subtle displays of affection that may be easily missed by those unfamiliar with the breed's communication style.

The establishment of family hierarchy often occurs naturally with Chow Chows, as they typically gravitate toward one family member who becomes their primary person. This special relationship usually develops with the individual who provides consistent care, training, and respect for the dog's personality and boundaries. While the chosen person may receive more obvious displays of affection and attention, the Chow Chow remains loyal and protective of all family members, expressing this devotion in ways that align with their reserved nature.

Managing relationships between Chow Chows and children requires careful attention to both the dog's needs and the children's behavior. These dogs can become wonderful family companions when children understand and respect the dog's boundaries, personal space requirements, and communication signals. Teaching children to approach the dog calmly, avoid disturbing rest periods, and recognize when the dog desires solitude helps establish positive relationships that can last throughout the dog's lifetime.

The breed's protective instincts create interesting family dynamics, as Chow Chows often assume responsibility for monitoring household activities and family member safety. They may position themselves strategically throughout the home to maintain visual contact with family members and observe potential access points for strangers. This behavior stems from their guardian heritage and should be viewed as a positive trait when properly channeled through training and socialization.

Daily routine management becomes particularly important with Chow Chows, as these dogs thrive on predictability and consistency. Families must establish regular feeding times, exercise periods, and quiet periods that accommodate the dog's needs while fitting into the household schedule. Many Chow Chows develop their own routines, such as morning patrols of the property or evening positioning near family gathering areas, and disruption of these patterns may cause stress or behavioral changes.

The introduction of new family members, whether human babies or additional pets, requires careful planning and gradual implementation with Chow Chows. These dogs need time to adjust to changes in family composition and may initially view new additions with suspicion or concern. Proper introduction protocols, combined with maintained attention to the dog's needs and established routines, help ensure smooth transitions during family changes.

Holiday celebrations and social gatherings present unique challenges for families with Chow Chows, as these dogs may find large groups of unfamiliar people stressful or overwhelming. Successful families learn to provide quiet retreat spaces where their dog can escape from social activities when needed. Some families choose to limit their dog's exposure to large gatherings, while others work gradually to build their dog's tolerance for social events through careful conditioning and positive experiences.

Grooming and maintenance activities can become positive family bonding experiences when approached with patience and respect for the dog's comfort level. Many Chow Chows enjoy gentle brushing sessions, particularly when these activities are introduced during puppyhood and conducted by family members who understand the dog's preferences. However, grooming should always be approached with consideration for the dog's tolerance levels and any sensitivities they may have.

Exercise and activity planning requires family coordination to ensure the Chow Chow's needs are met without overwhelming their moderate energy levels. These dogs benefit from regular walks, mental stimulation, and opportunities to patrol their territory, but they don't require the intensive exercise programs needed by some breeds. Families often find that incorporating the dog into daily activities, such as yard work or evening walks, provides appropriate exercise while strengthening family bonds.

The aging process brings changes to family dynamics as senior Chow Chows may become more selective about interactions and require additional comfort measures. Older dogs often become even more attached to their families while needing more predictable routines and gentle handling. Families who understand and accommodate these changing needs often find that their relationship with their Chow Chow deepens over time, creating bonds that enhance the entire family's appreciation for this remarkable breed.

The health profile of the Chow Chow reflects both the resilience that comes from thousands of years of natural selection and the challenges that face many purebred dogs in modern times. Understanding the breed's health considerations is essential for prospective owners, current caretakers, and responsible breeders who work to maintain and improve the overall health of the breed population. While Chow Chows are generally robust dogs with good longevity for their size, several genetic and structural factors require attention and monitoring throughout their lives.

The breed's distinctive physical characteristics, while defining their type and function, also contribute to specific health vulnerabilities that owners must understand and address. The Chow Chow's deep chest, heavy coat, and unique structural features each present both advantages and potential challenges that influence their health care needs and management requirements throughout different life stages.

Orthopedic health represents one of the most significant areas of concern for the Chow Chow breed, with several joint conditions occurring with increased frequency in the population. Hip dysplasia affects a notable percentage of Chow Chows, ranging from mild cases that cause minimal discomfort to severe conditions requiring surgical intervention. This hereditary condition involves malformation of the hip joint that can lead to pain, lameness, and progressive arthritis as the dog ages. Responsible breeding programs include hip evaluation through radiographic screening to identify affected individuals and carriers.

Elbow dysplasia presents another significant orthopedic concern, affecting the front limbs and potentially causing chronic pain and lameness. This condition encompasses several developmental abnormalities of the elbow joint that can significantly impact the dog's quality of life and mobility. Early detection through radiographic evaluation allows for appropriate management strategies and helps breeders make informed decisions about breeding selections.

Ocular health issues require particular attention in Chow Chows, with several hereditary eye conditions affecting the breed population. Entropion, a condition where the eyelid turns inward causing the eyelashes to irritate the cornea, occurs frequently in the breed and can cause significant discomfort and potential vision problems if left untreated. Surgical correction is often necessary to prevent corneal damage and maintain eye health.

Progressive retinal atrophy represents a serious hereditary condition that can lead to progressive vision loss and eventual blindness. While not painful, this condition significantly affects the dog's quality of life and ability to navigate their environment safely. Genetic testing allows breeders to identify carriers and affected individuals, enabling informed breeding decisions that can reduce the incidence of this condition in future generations.

Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus, represents one of the most serious emergency conditions that can affect Chow Chows. This life-threatening condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood circulation and causing rapid deterioration. Deep-chested breeds like the Chow Chow face increased risk, making owner awareness of symptoms and prevention strategies crucial for breed health management.

Thyroid disorders, particularly autoimmune thyroiditis leading to hypothyroidism, affect a significant portion of the Chow Chow population. This condition disrupts the dog's metabolism and can cause a wide range of symptoms including weight gain, lethargy, skin problems, and behavioral changes. Regular thyroid function monitoring allows for early detection and effective management through hormone replacement therapy.

The breed's dense double coat, while providing excellent protection from weather extremes, requires careful management to prevent skin and coat problems. Areas where moisture can become trapped against the skin may develop bacterial or fungal infections if not properly maintained. Regular grooming and attention to coat health help prevent these problems while maintaining the coat's protective function.

Preventive health care plays a crucial role in maintaining Chow Chow wellness throughout their lives. Regular veterinary examinations allow for early detection of developing problems and establishment of baseline health parameters that can be monitored over time. Maintaining appropriate body weight is particularly important for this breed, as excess weight can exacerbate joint problems and contribute to other health complications.

Nutritional management requires attention to the breed's specific needs and potential health concerns. High-quality diets appropriate for the dog's life stage, combined with controlled portion sizes and regular exercise, help maintain optimal health. Some Chow Chows may benefit from specialized diets or supplements, particularly as they age or if they develop specific health conditions that require dietary management.

If you're looking to adopt a Chou, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Chou dogs waiting for their forever homes.