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Chow Chow
Nickname: Chow
Breed origin: Northern China
Original purpose: All-purpose dog used for hunting, herding, pulling and protection of the home.
AKC recognized: 1903
AKC group: Non-Sporting
Size:
Height: 17 to 20 inches
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Color: Red (light golden to deep mahogany), black, blue, cinnamon (light fawn to deep cinnamon) and cream.
Life span: 9 to 12 years.
General characteristics/temperament: The Chow Chow is intelligent, independent, powerful, dignified, and aloof. They are said to have cat-like personalities and are stubborn and less eager to please than other breeds. They are reserved and discerning with strangers, but affectionate and devoted to family. Early socialization and training is very important for this breed because of their unique temperament and their tendency to try to dominate the household if given the chance. Although very rare, a Chow may attack its owner if extremely frustrated. Professional training in obedience classes is recommended for safety and liability reasons. The Chow has deep set eyes and limited peripheral vision, and is best approached from the front. Their short nose makes them more prone to overheating, and they must be provided with plenty of water and a cool and shady spot to escape the heat in hot climates, especially if there's also high humidity.
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OK for inexperienced owners? No
OK in apartments? Yes if given enough exercise.
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Intelligent? Yes
Easy to train? No
Energy/Activity Level: Low/Moderate
Exercise requirement: Brisk walk and/or other physical activity daily for the mental and physical stimulation, even if they have a fenced yard.
Grooming requirement: Chows have a dense undercoat which gives it its fluffy appearance. Brush at least twice weekly, more frequently if possible, to prevent matting and to remove any dead hair. Regular bathing is also required.
Known health problems: Elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, thyroid disease, pemphigus foliaceus, entropion, ectropion, heat stroke.
Additional photos of Chow Chow
Recommended books for further reading:
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Chow Chow
By Samuel Draper
Published in 2004
96 pages
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Show more books
Other websites for additional information:
American Kennel Club breed page
Chow Chow Club
Wikipedia breed information page
Chow Chow Welfare Information and Adoption Center
DogBreedMatch
