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Breed profile

Chow Chow

Lion-maned, cat-like and reserved. Devoted to its own people and politely uninterested in everyone else.

Black Chow Chow with a thick mane, photographed in a garden
A black Chow's lion-like ruff.Photo: Goran Vlacic from Vancouver / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0
Weight
20–32 kg44–71 lb
Height
43–51 cm17–20 in
Lifespan
8–12 yrs
Group
Utility / Non-Sporting
Origin
China
Popularity
#94 US#31 UK · 2025

Known for: WatchdogsCold climates

Energy
Shedding
Trainability
Barking
Good with kids
Flat-friendly

Temperament

Aloof, Dignified, Independent, Loyal.

Health problems to know about

  • Entropion
  • Elbow and hip dysplasia
  • Glaucoma
  • Hypothyroidism

Ask breeders for the parents' health test results, and check what your national breed club recommends screening for.

Daily care

Moderate walks, avoiding the heat of the day. A thorough brush two or three times a week. Early, broad socialisation.

A good fit for

Adult households, experienced owners who respect an independent dog.

Probably not ideal for

Homes with young children, hot climates, people who want a cuddly, eager-to-please dog.

Sources

  1. American Kennel Club: Chow Chow
  2. PetMD (vet-reviewed): Chow Chow
  3. Wikipedia: Chow Chow

Popularity: AKC 2025 registration rankings (US); Royal Kennel Club 2025 registrations (UK, ranked by us). Breed traits are tendencies, not guarantees. Individual dogs vary, and mixed breeds and rescues can be wonderful fits too.

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