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Chow ChowChow ~ Songshi Quan

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Canis lupus familiarisPhoto © Animal-World: Courtesy Justin Brough

    One of the oldest dog breeds, the Chow Chow is believed to be one of the first domestic dog breeds to evolve from the wolf.

    Chows have many seemingly contrasting personality traits. They are stubborn and dominant by nature, yet they usually have good manners. They are not known for their obedience, but they are very loyal, often one-person dogs. The Chow is often introverted around strangers, and perhaps even its family.     The biggest concern when selecting a Chow Chow is joint problems, including patellar luxation and hip and elbow dysplasia. Eye problems such as entropion are also somewhat common.

Common Name(s)     Chow Chow, Chow, Songshi Quan

Breed Type     The Chow Chow is a non-sporting breed. One of the oldest dog breeds, the Chow Chow has been used as a working dog in a variety of capacities. They are best suited to cool to moderate climates.

Background     According to researchers, the Chow is one of the first domestic dog breeds to evolve from the wolf. A dog similar in appearance to the Chow has been found in a Chinese carving dating back to 150 BC. The breed was introduced to England in the late 18th century.

Description     The Chow Chow has a thick coat, which may be smooth or rough, and is always solid colored. Red, black, blue, cinnamon and cream are the most common colorings, but they can also be tan, gray or white. Its bluish-black tongue is its most recognizable trait. Its ears are erect and rounded, and its tail fluffy and curved over the back. Average size for the breed is 18-22 inches tall and 45-70 pounds in weight.

Care and Feeding     The Chow's diet should include fish, rice, wheat and soy. The Chow Chow needs regular brushing to maintain its fluffy coat. Dry shampoo is best for cleaning.
    Chows need annual checkups for optimal health. They should be vaccinated on the following schedule:

• 6-8 weeks: Distemper, Leptospirosis, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvo, and Corona virus (DHLPPC)
• 10-12 weeks: Second DHLPPC
• 14-16 weeks: Third DHLPPC and rabies
• Annually: DHLPPC and rabies booster
  

    The Chow Chow sheds heavily at times. Regular vacuuming is necessary if this breed is to be kept indoors.

Housing Your Dog     Chows can live indoors or out, but they need at least a small yard to circulate in. As long as they get to go out for walks and play, they can live in small spaces.

Social Behaviors     Chows usually do well with children. They may be dominant around other dogs and different types of pets, however, and they can be over-protective of their owners. Proper socialization can minimize these tendencies.

Handling and Training     Generally speaking, Chows do not train very well due to their stubbornness. But with firmness and consistency, they may come around. Housebreaking is usually not a problem.

Activities     Chows need daily walks and exercise. They may become lazy if you let them, so it is important to enforce their exercise routines.

Breeding/Reproduction     Potential mates for your Chow should not have family histories of joint problems, thyroid disease, or eye abnormalities.

Common Health Problems     Eye abnormalities such as entropion and ectropion may be treatable with surgery. Thyroid disease may require medication for the dog.

Availability     Chow Chows may be difficult to find in many areas, but breeders can be located online. Prices typically range from $500 to over $1,000.

References "Chow Chow", Wikipedia, Copyright 2008
"Chow Chow", Dog Breed Info Center, Copyright 1998-2008
Cusick, William D., "What to Feed a Chow Chow", Referenced online, 2008
Welton, Michelle, "Chow Chows: What's Good About ‘Em? What's Bad About ‘Em?", Copyright 2000-2008
"Chow Chow Puppies for Sale", Copyright PuppyFind.com, LLC, Referenced online, 2008

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Beautiful chow chow Tony 2009-04-17

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