Utility group · China
Chow Chow
Also called Chow, Songshi Quan.
What makes them remarkable
One of its most distinctive features is hidden until it opens its mouth: a blue-black tongue.
- Dignified
- Serious
- Aloof
- Loyal
- Independent

- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 20 to 32 kg45 to 70 lb
- Lives
- 8 to 12 years
- Energy
- Low
- Trains
- Low
- Barks
- Moderate
Training
Training a Chow Chow
Utility breeds. Many of these think before they obey. Earn compliance with reward and consistency; they do not do it for free.
Not for Beginners
Start here
Extremely independent, needs experienced, confident handler.
Early Socialisation Critical
Without it, can become overly protective or aggressive.
Sensitive to Harsh Handling
Harsh handling backfires; reward generously, correct calmly and rarely.
The app turns this into five to fifteen minutes a day.
Add your Chow Chow and it builds the plan around their age, where they came from and what they already know, one step at a time.
Free to start. iPhone. No card needed.
At home
Living with one
Breeds developed for a job that no longer exists or never fitted a group. Includes the spitz and primitive breeds.
Gets on with
- ChildrenLow
- Other dogsLow
- StrangersLow
- CatsLow
Breed averages. Early socialisation and the individual dog matter more.
- Exercise
- 45-60 minutes daily. Moderate walks, avoid heat.
- Grooming
- High maintenance. Daily brushing for thick coat.
- Drool
- Moderate
- Coat
- Rough, Smooth, DenseRed, Black, Blue, Cinnamon, Cream
- In a flat
- Needs more space than a flat gives.
Health
Things to ask a breeder or vet about
Hip Dysplasia
Moderate
Common in the breed
Entropion
Moderate
Eyelid rolling inward
Bloat
Severe
Deep-chested breed risk
Where they come from
History
Ancient Chinese breed used for guarding, herding, hunting. Distinctive blue-black tongue.
Similar breeds
All breeds
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