--- title: "Chow Chow" id: "191524" type: "breeds" slug: "chow-chow" published_at: "2022-12-29T05:07:46+00:00" modified_at: "2026-10-17T04:29:54+00:00" url: "https://www.petlandashland.com/breed/chow-chow/" markdown_url: "https://www.petlandashland.com/breed/chow-chow.md" excerpt: "The Chow Chow is a magnificent large breed, known for its distinctive lion-like appearance and unique personality. With roots tracing back to ancient China, these regal dogs were originally bred for their strength and guarding capabilities, often serving as loyal..." taxonomy_breed_group: - "Non-Sporting Group" taxonomy_breed_size: - "Large" --- [Back to Breeds](https://www.petlandashland.com/breed/) Large breed # Chow Chow Puppies A Chow Chow is, by all means, a head-turner. You would definitely be stopped in your tracks to admire this furry pooch. They look a lot like teddy bears or even a lion. They are known for their blackish-blue tongue. They are quite affectionate and will take to one person in the household and they do make terrific pets. Petland is honored to offer first-class [Chow Chow puppies for sale](/puppies-for-sale/chow-chow/) , and our caring team of puppy specialists will help answer any questions you may have. - Alert watchdog - Protective - Quiet [Ask about Chow Chow puppies](#pb-ask) We do not have Chow Chow puppies on the floor today. Tell us what you are looking for and we will let you know the moment one arrives, or help you find a breed that suits your home just as well. - Adult weight 45–70 lbs - Height 17–20 in - Lifespan 8–12 years - Exercise 30 min a day ![chow chow](https://www.petlandashland.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/chow-chow-1-600x600.jpg) Share[https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.petlandashland.com%2Fbreed%2Fchow-chow%2F](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.petlandashland.com%2Fbreed%2Fchow-chow%2F) [https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.petlandashland.com%2Fbreed%2Fchow-chow%2F&description=Chow%20Chow%20puppies](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.petlandashland.com%2Fbreed%2Fchow-chow%2F&description=Chow%20Chow%20puppies) ## About the Chow Chow [Stay Connected Via Google News Follow Us For The Latest Pet Updates and Guides.](https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=petlandashland.com) The Chow Chow is a magnificent large breed, known for its distinctive lion-like appearance and unique personality. With roots tracing back to ancient China, these regal dogs were originally bred for their strength and guarding capabilities, often serving as loyal companions to emperors. Today, they are cherished family members, and their confident, independent nature makes them an intriguing addition to the right household. While they can be a bit reserved, Chow Chows enjoy affectionate moments with their family and form strong bonds with their humans. Read more about the Chow Chow Show less When it comes to energy levels, Chow Chows are typically calm and collected, making them quite adaptable for apartment living. They thrive in a relaxed environment and require moderate exercise, such as daily walks or play sessions, to keep them happy and healthy. Grooming is a key aspect of caring for a Chow Chow, as their thick fur requires weekly maintenance but produces a stunning coat that can be a joy to behold. While shedding can be quite significant, regular brushing can help keep your home free from too much fur. While Chow Chows can be selective about their friendships with both kids and other animals, they can still coexist harmoniously when properly socialized and introduced to these dynamics early on. Their trainability may require patience and consistency, as they are known for their independent streak, but they are intelligent and can learn commands with dedication and positive reinforcement. With a moderate barking tendency, they may alert you to visitors, but they are not typically seen as excessive barkers. If you are considering a Chow Chow in your family, they can undoubtedly bring a distinct personality and a loving presence to your home. Visit us at Petland Ashland, Kentucky, to learn more about making a Chow Chow a part of your life. [Stay Connected Via Google News Follow Us For The Latest Pet Updates and Guides.](https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=petlandashland.com) ## Chow Chow breed profile Every score below is set by our team for this breed. Higher is simply more of that trait, not better or worse. ### Temperament - Affection Affectionate - Playfulness Calm - With strangers Cautious - Territorial Territorial - Prey drive Low ### Family & other pets - Young children Older kids only - Older children Fine - Other dogs Selective - Cats Needs care ### Energy & exercise - Energy Relaxed - Mental stimulation Moderate ### Training - Trainability Takes patience - Intelligence Bright - Stubbornness Stubborn ### Care & upkeep - Shedding Heavy - Drooling Minimal - Barking Occasional ### Home life - Apartment living Good - Time alone Most of a day - Cold weather Comfortable - Warm weather Needs shade ### A good match for - First-time owners Some experience helps - Senior owners Suitable - Running partner Not suited - Hiking Short walks - Therapy work Unlikely - Guarding Protective ## Living with a Chow Chow ### History of Breed The Chow Chow dog breed originated in China and is known to date to the Han dynasty (206 bc–ad 220). This breed of dog is believed by many to be one of the oldest of all breeds and is genetically very similar to the wolf. The name “Chow Chow” derived from an English term used in the 19th century to refer to cargo from the Orient. This breed has remained a very well-liked breed for generations around the world. ### Personality and Temperament This breed is a very upbeat and energetic breed that enjoys the company if his family. They are also loyal and at times protective. They enjoy socializing with other dogs and quickly form a bond with their family. The Chow Chow does tend to train easily and loves the attention he receives after mastering a new trick. They have approachable demeanors and all-around very good personalities. ### Appearance and Grooming Chow Chows require daily and thorough brushing. Many find that using a large slicker brush, a pin brush and a metal comb work well in keeping their thick and luxurious coats looking great. Using the slicker brush to thoroughly brush your Chow Chow's legs is also important. Routine nail clipping will help this pup feel his and look his best. ### Care and Feeding Chow Chows are relatively active dogs and do need ample amounts of energy to feel their best. The correct ratio of meat-based protein and micronutrients, as well as healthy carbs and fats, will keep this breed healthy. Many Chow Chow owners recommend feeding this dog two meals a day, spaced about twelve hours apart. It is also very important to remember to provide your dog with proper dental care. It is suggested that his teeth get cleaned a minimum of three times a week. Failing to keep his teeth clean can contribute to health issues. ### Breed Size and Life Expectancy The Chow Chow stands between seventeen to twenty inches tall. This breed weighs between fifty to seventy-five pounds. The average life expectancy for this breed is between nine to fifteen years. ### Breed Facts **Fact:** The Chow Chow is one of the oldest dog breeds in existence today. **Fact:** Unlike other breeds, Chow Chows have completely straight legs which do not bend like most dogs. This gives them their recognizable ‘stilted gait’ while they walk. **Fact:** Chow Chows have a unique, deep blue-black tongue. Interestingly, as puppies, they start with a pink tongue, but then it goes darker as they get older. ## Caring for a Chow Chow GroomingWeekly brushing Grooming costAverage Monthly foodAverage Outdoor spaceA yard is recommended Allergy friendlyNot considered hypoallergenic ## Chow Chow Video ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Are Chows suitable for first-time dog owners? No. They grow up to be quite independent and strong dogs and they are no mean feat for a first-time dog owner. ### Do Chows have prey drive? Chows are known to be hunting dogs and as such tend to chase anything smaller. They have a high prey drive even in domestic environments. ### Are Chows playful? Chows are playful in a different way. They are not given to the classic fetch game and they take longer to respond to things. ### Can Chows adapt to apartment living? No. They are more suitable for homes which have a back garden so they get to express themselves. They really don’t do well in apartments. ### Can Chows be left alone? They develop separation anxiety when they are left alone for long periods of time. They are suitable for people who work from home. ### Do Chows bark excessively? No. They will only bark to alert their owners and are not known to be barkers just for the fun of it. ### Do Chows like water? No. They do not. Their coats alone could pull them down when wet. ### Are Chows good watchdogs? Yes, they are. ### Why are Chows aggressive? They are naturally hunting dogs and tend to be aggressive with other dogs of the same sex or cats. If not checked, it could be an issue in adulthood. ### Do Chows like to cuddle? No. They prefer some level of self-autonomy and are very independent. They do not love to snuggle or cuddle. If you are not much of a hugger or a cuddly person, this is the perfect dog for you because, despite their looks, they do love their space. ## Similar Breeds ![Boston Terrier](https://www.petlandashland.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/boston-terrier-1-300x300.jpg) ### [Boston Terrier](https://www.petlandashland.com/breed/boston-terrier/) 1 available ![French Bulldog](https://www.petlandashland.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/french-bulldog-1-300x300.jpg) ### [French Bulldog](https://www.petlandashland.com/breed/french-bulldog/) 1 available ![Bichon Frise](https://www.petlandashland.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/bichon-frise-1-300x300.jpg) ### [Bichon Frise](https://www.petlandashland.com/breed/bichon-frise/) ![coton de tulear](https://www.petlandashland.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/coton-de-tulear-1-300x300.jpg) ### [Coton De Tulear](https://www.petlandashland.com/breed/coton-de-tulear/) ## Ready to Meet Them? Call us to check current availability or to arrange a visit with a Chow Chow. - [Ashland, KY (606) 329-0357](tel:6063290357) ## Ask About Chow Chow Puppies Our pet counselors are ready to help you find your new best friend. "*" indicates required fields ``` Petland Ashland 750 Google reviews Write a review Posted on Google Robinlee Eversole Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Staff is very friendly and helpful. It's clean and well cared for, we love to see whats new Posted on Google Katelyn Smith Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I loved petland they helped me so much with getting my summer she is so loving her life with getting spoiled lol and sleeping in bed with her mommy Posted on Google Kathy Horsley Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great experience! Friendly & knowledgeable staff. Posted on Google Ha Ha Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Kylee was SUPER helpful today with my visit. I had some questions about getting a ferret and she helped me all the way! Definitely would recommend asking for Kylee when you have any pet needs! Posted on Google katelyn clark Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Jalyn is a wonderful and such a pleasant worker at ashland Petland Posted on Google Deb Newsome Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Good experience. ```