Chow Chow (1).png__PID:4cf57a2f-3f18-4f22-acce-1a443f381971

Meet the Chow Chow !

Chow Chow: Grace in Every Step

Chow Chows are known for their unique lion-like mane, dignified demeanor, and deep loyalty to their family. This ancient Chinese breed is best suited to experienced pet parents who appreciate a calm, independent, and majestic companion.

At a Glance

Size

Medium

Shedding

Heavy, seasonal

Life Expectancy

8–12 years

Coat Type

Thick double coat
(smooth or rough)

Temperament

Reserved, loyal,
independent

Weight

Male: 25–32 kg,
Female: 20–27 kg

Weather Tolerance

Does well in cooler
climates; heat-sensitive

Suitable For

Calm homes, experienced owners, cooler climates

Chow Chow Nutrition

Nutrition.jpg__PID:7fe31347-ee08-4a34-b292-1293c976b61e
Nutrition b.jpg__PID:b70f4089-7bf2-4291-ad88-e05c7008f127
Nutrition.jpg__PID:7fe31347-ee08-4a34-b292-1293c976b61e

Key Nutritional Needs

  • High-Quality Protein: Maintains muscle and supports coat health
  • Omega Fatty Acids: Vital for skin health and coat shine
  • Joint Support: Glucosamine and chondroitin to prevent early arthritis
  • Controlled Calories: Chow Chows can be prone to weight gain
Medium (1).jpg__PID:8c880020-8f9c-4df7-8475-2d0e3d82f894
Medium.jpg__PID:8800208f-9c1d-4744-b52d-0e3d82f89466

Feeding Guidelines

Age Daily Quantity Meals per Day Feeding Tips
Puppy (2–6 months) 1½ – 2 cups of dry food 3–4 Use large-breed puppy formula rich in protein and DHA for brain and joint development.
Puppy (6–12 months) 2 – 2½ cups 2–3 Gradually transition to adult food; monitor weight gain to prevent obesity.
Adult (1–7 years) 2½ – 3 cups 2 Opt for breed-appropriate formulas with moderate calories and joint support.
Senior (7+ years) 2 – 2½ cups 2 Choose senior diets with lower fat and added joint supplements.

Chow Chow Grooming

Chow Grooming D.jpg__PID:a9e24980-2578-4710-a7bc-0d0ef60d9584
Chow Grooming M.jpg__PID:e2498025-7877-40e7-bc0d-0ef60d95846e

Coat & Shedding

  • Sheds moderately year-round and heavily during seasonal changes
  • Daily brushing is ideal, especially with rough coats, to prevent mats
  • Use a slicker brush and undercoat rake for thorough grooming
ZL-Golden-Retriever_650X610_Deshedding-Range.png__PID:6f9925f5-9be6-4e36-a163-3a0d9d632a30
ZL-Golden-Retriever_650X610_Tools.png__PID:ae01ee7a-97d7-4417-a7e4-cb6aa3215681
ZL-Golden-Retriever_650X610_Shampoos.png__PID:14a5fba0-46ff-4afb-9b16-2e81fc5c946f
ZL-Golden-Retriever_650X610_Wipes.png__PID:e1245326-49d9-412e-b665-e1c12fbc316f

Bathing & Skin Care

  • Bathe every 4–6 weeks or as needed—ensure full drying after baths
  • Clean skin folds around the face to prevent infections
  • Use gentle, moisturizing shampoos

Hygiene Must-Dos

  • Trim nails monthly
  • Clean ears weekly
  • Brush teeth regularly to prevent tartar buildup
ZL-Golden-Retriever_650X610_PawRange.png__PID:2a3a6988-471c-4ce8-ac61-b5a5cc9bdb42
ZL-Golden-Retriever_650X610_Nails.png__PID:57141df3-f82c-49e4-808f-1a8a4d79a2d6

Training & Exercise

Chow Training M.jpg__PID:787710e7-bc0d-4ef6-8d95-846e3f520560
Chow Training D.jpg__PID:25787710-e7bc-4d0e-b60d-95846e3f5205

Obedience & Socialization

  • Early socialization is essential—Chows can be wary of strangers
  • Start early with socialization and basic commands
  • Avoid harsh corrections—this breed is sensitive and independent
1300X610_GR_Training.png__PID:54eece2d-d301-4812-9121-8a28aac2e572
ZL-Golden-Retriever_650X610_WalkEssentials.png__PID:2bf2e223-6159-4713-8ec5-de7d351215ef
ZL-Golden-Retriever_650X610_Training-Treats.png__PID:5120e330-cf6a-4da2-8ca2-8c91eb6c3018

Exercise Essentials

  • Needs moderate daily exercise—2 walks of 20–30 minutes
  • Doesn’t enjoy rough play or intense exercise
  • Mental stimulation is more important than physical exhaustion

Puppy Care – Bringing Home a Chow Chow Puppy

Chow Chow Puppy D.jpg__PID:5da9e249-8025-4877-90e7-bc0d0ef60d95
Chow Puppy M.jpg__PID:80257877-10e7-4c0d-8ef6-0d95846e3f52

Early Care

  • Introduce different environments, people, and pets early
  • Begin grooming routines as a puppy to reduce resistance later
  • Crate training can help with setting boundaries
ZL-Golden-Retriever_650X610_ChewToys.png__PID:38678173-2824-4ae4-9555-f525fb665636
ZL-Golden-Retriever_650X610_PeePads.png__PID:40f10093-8049-42c2-a8ee-934e459837be
Deworming .jpg__PID:6b23f54a-be79-4890-8c5c-4242f69ff4fb

Development Tips

  • Set firm but gentle rules from the beginning
  • Use soft chew toys and puzzles to occupy their independent mind
  • Monitor for hip or joint issues as they grow

Chow Chow Lifestyle

Chow  Lifestyle D.jpg__PID:c15da9e2-4980-4578-b710-e7bc0d0ef60d
Chow Lifestyle M.jpg__PID:49802578-7710-47bc-8d0e-f60d95846e3f

Daily Life Must-Haves

  • Enjoys short, calm walks and indoor play
  • Doesn’t demand constant attention but values routine
ZL-Golden-Retriever_650X610_Interactive-Toys.png__PID:61563987-c715-4b21-8ff2-d4dc163230be
ZL-Golden-Retriever_650X610_Fetch-Toys.png__PID:36e90c40-40c0-452c-b718-e9db2e8a8e3d
1300X610_GR_Outdoor.png__PID:57aac0aa-0f9b-4773-9636-e6fc984397b9

Ideal Living Setup

  • Quiet, clean spaces with low foot traffic
  • Cool corners or cooling mats during warm weather
  • Not ideal for off-leash parks—can be territorial or aloof with other dogs

Vet Care for Chow Chow Health

Cat Vetcare Desktop.jpg__PID:d64174cb-c653-4a6e-9ed0-8adaa2e8bd26
vet-mobile.jpg__PID:508881e0-a21d-47da-8d38-ea524bbd0b0a

Health Considerations

  • Hip & elbow dysplasia – common in the breed
  • Entropion – a condition where eyelids roll inward
  • Thyroid issues – can affect weight and coat
  • Skin allergies – due to dense coat and sensitivity
1300X610_GR_Vet1 1.png__PID:179f53ff-1c17-40fb-a2c6-5ed936ae153c
1300X610_GR_Vet2 1.png__PID:01179f53-ff1c-4760-bbe2-c65ed936ae15

Preventive Vet Care

  • Regular hip and eye screenings
  • Watch for skin irritations or hot spots
  • Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on joints
  • Keep vaccinations, flea, and tick treatments up to date

Fun Trivia: Did You Know?

  • The Chow Chow is one of the oldest dog breeds, dating back to ancient China
  • They have a unique blue-black tongue, unlike most other dog breeds
  • Queen Victoria and Elvis Presley were both fans of the breed
  • Their cat-like independence and cleanliness make them quite unique among dogs

FAQs

See the Love on Instagram 

Follow us on @ziglyforpets for a daily dose of wonder