The Chow-Chow is considered to be one of the oldest breeds alive today. Some research claims the Chow is one of the first breeds to evolve from the wolf. Much of the Chow's history is lost but they have been found in sculptures and pottery from the Chinese Han Dynasty (206 B.C. – 220 A.D.). There are even some artifacts which claim the Chow originally came from the Arctic Circle, and then migrated to Northern Asia. Some scholars also believe that the Chow might be the original ancestor to some breeds such as the Samoyed and the Pomeranian. They were a favorite of Chinese emperors, who used the breed as a hunting and sporting animal. The Chinese peasants, who used the Chow for work, food and clothing, also favored them. The Chow of the past was primarily a working dog, they were used for hunting, herding, guarding and even cart pulling, but today they serve primarily as companions. The Chow Chow was recognized in 1903 as part of the AKC Non-Sporting Group.
Temperament
Chows are known for being very affectionate to their families but can be very selective of strangers. They sometimes tend to also bond very closely to “the master” figure of the home. Some even say they have "cat-like" personalities, meaning they’re a very independent breed. This makes them sometimes less eager to please, but the Chow can still be hugged and played with! They must be properly socialized at a young age with other dogs and pets, as well as people. The Chow Chow is not recommended for inexperienced owners. Because of the Chow's reputation, some homeowner's insurance companies will not cover people who have Chows in their home.
Grooming
Grooming MUST be a regular activity with a Chow Owner. They must be kept groomed properly in order to keep their double coats in top condition. The coat of the Chow comes in two varieties: smooth and rough. Some owners bath their Chows once a month, but you want to make sure you are using a proper shampoo, so you do not dry out their coat. You should brush your Chow at least twice a week, if not more! Always brush out as much of the dead fur as possible, so it doesn't mat. Also, you should NEVER shave your Chow, even in the summer months! It is their fur which helps keep them cool and their skin safe from the sun. After you shave your Chow, their coats never really grow back in the same condition it was in before. It can also take a VERY long time for their fur to grow in fully. The Chow is also said to have less of a 'doggy odor' if the coat is brushed often. Nails should also be trimmed when needed, so your Chow is comfortable. They can sometimes be prone to ear infections and hot spots, so it is important to make sure the coat fully dries after grooming and to properly clean your Chow’s ears regularly.
Activities
Chows can sometimes be quite, well, lazy. Which makes them great for apartment living, but don't expect them to be the greatest jogging companion. It is important not to let your Chow become too lazy though! They should go for several walks a day to keep them active and in shape or at least one long walk a day, which they should enjoy! Hiking with your Chow can also be a fun experience for both you and your fuzzy friend. Just be sure to bring along extra water for those hotter days. Chows are very intelligent dogs, so training can be easy - even if they are stubborn. They can be trained in obedience and some have even earned companion dog titles. They can be great show, hunting and family dogs!
Health
There are a few health risks this breed is prone to. The Chow Chow can be prone to elbow and hip dysplasia – so it is important to purchase from responsible breeders. Because of their thick coat they do not fair well in high humidity. They should never be left out in the sun for long periods of time and - like all dogs - they should never be left in a car during warm weather. They should always have access to cool, clean drinking water, and if signs of heat prostration show, you should wet your Chow down with cold water and call your vet. Because of their shorter muzzles, they are also sensitive to anesthesia. They should be treated carefully if anesthesia is necessary. They can also be prone to Entropion, which is caused when eyelids roll inward and irritate the eye. If your Chow tears more than normally, he could be suffering from an entropion. One should contact the vet about this problem should it arise as it can be corrected with surgery. Although they are a medium sized breed, cases of bloat have also appeared in the Chow Chow. It is always safer to feed your dog two to three meals a day, rather than one large meal.
For more information about the Chow Chow visit the Chow Chow Club, Inc., which is the American Kennel Club parent club of the breed.
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