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History
The Chow Chow's structure is very similar to that of the oldest known fossilized dog remains, dated to several million years ago. The Chow Chow has been known for thousands of years in China, where the breed was put to work as a hunter, cart puller and boat guard. One Emperor is said to have kept 2500 Chow pairs! Over history, the Chow Chow has been used to hunt wolves, sable and pheasant, and to pull sleds. His fur was used to trim coats. The flesh of these dogs was considered a delicacy in China (dog is still eaten in China today). This beautiful dog was first brought to England by merchants in the late 1800's. The name probably originated from the pidgin English word "chow-chow", a term used to describe all sorts of miscellaneous stuff brought back from the Far East. The Chow has become very popular in the United States as a companion dog.
Description
The Chow Chow is a stocky, broad-headed, powerful dog. There are two coat types, rough and smooth coated. The smooth coated variety looks like a small Akita. The most popular variety, with his thick, stand-out coat, is the rough-coated. Around his neck is a heavy mane of fur which makes the dog look rather like a lion. The head is massive and broad, with a wide muzzle. The small triangular ears point forward. The bushy tail curls over the back in the manner typical of Spitz breeds. The tongue and mouth are a distinctive blackish color. The soft double coat comes in several solid colors: red, tan, cream, black, blue, gray, or (rarely) white.
Talents
Watchdog, and guarding.
Personality
Usually well-mannered, but can be willful and protective. Bossy. Serious and very independent. Often a one-person dog, very loyal to his family, though he may act reserved, even with them. If strangers push themselves on this dog, he may become aggressive. This very dominant breed requires dominant owners.
Behavior
Children: Best with older, considerate children.
Friendliness: Very wary of strangers; highly protective.
Trainability: Slightly difficult to train.
Independence: Needs people a lot.
Dominance: High.
Other Pets: Generally good with other pets.
Combativeness: Tends to be fairly dog-aggressive.
Noise: Likes to bark.
Notes
This breed can be quite a handful. Not recommended for children or inexperienced owners. Must be extensively socialized when very young to combat potential over-protectiveness as an adult. Needs firm training right from the start. Prone to ear infections, eyelid problems and hot spots. Can be aggressive with other dogs. Beware of hip dysplasia—buy only from OFA certified stock. Be careful to purchase a Chow Chow only from a reputable breeder as there are many poor quality dogs being sold. Tends to snore. Because of his thick coat, the Chow Chow is sensitive to heat and can be irritable on very hot days.
Grooming
Grooming: Extensive grooming needed.
Trimming & Stripping: No trimming or stripping needed.
Coat: Fluffy coat.
Shedding: Seasonally heavy shedder.
Exercise: Moderate exercise needed.
Jogging: A good jogging companion.
Indoors: Relatively inactive indoors.
Apartments: Will be OK in an apartment if sufficiently exercised.
Outdoor Space: A small yard is sufficient.
Climate: Prefers cool climates.
Owner: Not recommended for novice owners.
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