Chow Chow

Genetic Predispositions and Health

Chow Chows may suffer from adrenal sex hormone imbalance, alopecia X, atopic dermatitis, atrioventricular heart block, cataracts, cerebellar hypoplasia, cervical vertebral instability, ciliary dyskinesia, color dilution alopecia, cor triatriatum, corneal dystrophy, cruciate ligament disease, deafness, dermatomyositis, dermoid sinus, diabetes mellitus, dysmyelinogenesis, ectropion, elbow dysplasia, elbow dysplasia (ununited anconeal process or fragmented coronoid process), elliptocytosis, entropion, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, familial nephropathy, gastric carcinoma, gastric dilation/volvulus (bloat), glaucoma, growth hormone-responsive dermatosis, heart block, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, immunoglobulin A (IgA) deficiency, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, melanoma (oral), myotonia congenita, osteochondritis dissecans(elbow or stifle), osteogenesis imperfecta, pannus, panosteitis, patellar luxation, pemphigus foliaceus, persistent pupillary membranes, pituitary dwarfism, progressive retinal atrophy, pulmonic stenosis, renal dysplasia, sebaceous adenitis, tremor syndrome, tyrosinase deficiency, uveodermatologic syndrome, and ventricular septal defect. They may also suffer from allergies. Genetic testing is recommended, including for the following additional conditions: hyperuricosoria, degenerative myelopathy, and progressive rod-cone degeneration.

Personality and Behavior

Chow Chows are often described as aloof and independent. They are reserved and discerning with strangers, making them excellent watchdogs. They are known for their dignified and regal demeanor, but they can be very loyal and affectionate with their family members. Chow Chows are not typically aggressive, but they can be protective and stubborn, making early socialization and obedience training important. This breed tends to be quiet and well-mannered indoors, making them suitable for apartment living. However, they do need regular exercise to keep fit and maintain a balanced temperament.

Despite their somewhat bear-like appearance and aloof demeanor, Chow Chows can be sensitive and appreciate a calm, stable environment. They are intelligent and can be trained, although they are sometimes seen as hardheaded because they prefer to do things their own way. The breed is generally good with children, but interactions with young kids should be supervised due to the Chow's size and strength.

Fun Facts

According to the AKC, Chow Chow owners praise the cleanliness of their dogs, saying that they have very little "doggy" odor, housebreak more easily than other breeds, and that they are "as fastidious as cats".

Chows are depicted in artifacts of China’s Han Dynasty (c. 206 b.c.), though experts say that there is evidence suggesting the history of the breed is much older.

The term "Chow Chow" was a catch-all term used to describe miscellaneous cargo on British merchant ships, and this name became associated with the breed itself.

References

Doi:10.1002/9781119540687

https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/chow-chow/

https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/c_dg_chow_chow

https://embarkvet.com/resources/dog-breeds/chow-chow/