Choosing the right dog for you and your family is no easy decision. With so many breeds to choose from, it’s hard to know which dog would be the best fit for your home life.
If you’re looking for a dignified, loyal companion, look no further than the Chow Chow. A member of the non-sporting group, Chows are a refined, calm breed that can adapt to almost any environment.
The Chow Chow’s Temperament
The Chow Chow is an extremely loyal, intelligent, and independent breed. Chow Chows can be a bit aloof, but they’re fiercely loyal to their loved ones. They are eager to please their owners and make excellent, devoted companions.
Physical Traits and Grooming Needs
Chow Chows are sturdy, compact, medium-sized dogs. Their most distinctive features are their lion’s-mane ruff around the head and shoulders, deep-set eyes, and a blue-black tongue. They stand at about 20 inches tall and can weigh between 45–70 pounds. Chows can have rough or smooth double coats that come in red, black, blue, cinnamon, or cream.
The Chow Chow’s double coat requires regular grooming. Brushing at least twice a week and bathing a Chow Chow monthly will help them look and feel their best. It’s important to pay special care to the Chow Chow’s ears and eyes when cleaning them. It’s also important to note that the fur around their heads can mat easily if not properly groomed. Prospective owners should be sure to take these extra grooming needs into consideration.
How Much Training Does a Chow Chow Need?
Early socialization and puppy training classes are key in making sure the Chow Chow grows into a well-behaved adult. The Chow Chow is very smart which makes training easier, but they are prone to stubbornness. The best way to combat these stubborn streaks is with patient, positive training methods.
Are Chow Chows Good for Families?
Chow Chows aren’t the most playful or patient dogs, so they may not be the best choice for families with young, boisterous children. Their stubbornness also makes them a better choice for experienced dog owners. Their loving, loyal nature makes them great companions, but they would fare best in a home with experienced owners and older children.
How Social Are Chow Chows?
Chow Chows are not very outgoing dogs. They act quite aloof towards strangers, and really only tend to be affectionate towards their loved ones. They may also not be particularly open to other dogs. Early socialization and training can aid this, but overall they are fairly reserved and independent dogs.
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