
Chow Chow Studs
History and origins
Despite being a very ancient breed, its origins are uncertain. Used in China as a war dog, it soon went on to function as a sled dog, guard dog, and finally as an animal highly prized for its meat and skins. The English quickly adopted the breed during the 19th century, and it was the early English breeders and their studs that were responsible for the breed reaching the rest of Europe from the United Kingdom. There is much discussion regarding the breed’s name in English, but the most popular explanation is the term from pidgin-English used by 19th-century mariners to refer to miscellaneous cargo for sale which was not included on the ship’s manifest – ‘chow chow‘.
History and origins
- Life expectancy: Between 9 and 12 years
- Character: Quiet
- Size: Medium
- Coat types: Short, Long
Types of coat
The coat is of a single colour: black, red, blue, fawn, cream or white. They can present nuanced tones, but never spots of another colour. A multi-coloured specimen is not considered within the official KC breed standard.
Eye colour
Physical characteristics
Character
Its proud and independent temperament makes it an especially calm animal. It is not very playful nor requires a lot of attention, so as pets they may be suitable for people who do not want to constantly respond to their dog’s calls for attention.
Previously, they were used as a guard or hunting dog, but now primarily as companion pets or exhibition animals.
It has a healthy distrust of strangers. Although very faithful and protective of its social group, it distrusts any strangers who approach their territory.
For this reason, as pets, their few displays of affection will be for their masters and not for new people. In short, these dogs do not like to be caressed by strangers, especially not on the head.
Behaviour
The education of this magnificent breed is quite difficult, due to its strong temperament and its sometimes total indifference to interactions with people. By its nature, it will not be very interested in obeying the orders of its owners. To remedy this, it will be necessary to educate it from puppyhood, be patient, consistent and assertive.
Being quiet, discreet and with a taste for solitude, this breed is not at all destructive. It can spend several hours a day completely alone without doing any kind of damage at home.
Despite its apparent indifference to its social group, it is very attached in its own way and shows it with a highly developed protective instinct.
If what you are looking for is a pet that protects the home, this breed may be a good option, since it will defend its territory without hesitation.
This Chinese breed is not suitable for any type of owner. People without prior experience will find this breed difficult to handle. Being neither playful nor gluttonous, their education requires a very good knowledge of the particularities of this breed to get the best results.
Its strong temperament, independence and strength are fundamental aspects that must be taken into account before making the decision to adopt one.
Exercise
The physical activity should be quite moderate but it will be necessary to maintain a minimum level of activity so that it does not gain weight.
The Chow Chow and children
Price
Cleanliness
In addition, their eyes will have to be checked to detect early signs of infection, since this dog tends to tear a lot.
Diet
Health
Their life expectancy is approximately 10 years. Although a robust dog, unfortunately, it is paying the consequences of excessive selection. Fortunately, its thick coat and woolly undercoat give it excellent protection against the typically bad English weather.
Weight gain
This breed is prone to obesity due to its little interest in exercise. That is why it is essential to take care of diet and adapt it to the age of the animal, its activity level and state of health.
Common diseases
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Entropion (creasing of the eyelids)
- Osteoarthritis
- Ligament problems (cruciate ligament tear)
- Skin diseases (allergies, pyodermatitis, alopecia, etc.)
- Patella dislocation
- Pemphigus (set of autoimmune immune diseases)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Chow Chows be aggressive?
Can a Chow Chow kill a human?
Do people eat Chow Chows?
Why do Chows turn on their owners?
What makes a good stud?
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Saturday: 11am – 6pm
Sunday: Closed