| Origin |
China - antiquity |
| Original Use |
Guard dog, food |
| Use Today |
Companion |
| Temperament |
It is serious, aloof, and stubborn. It will bond with one person and be very devoted and loyal. Other people do not matter to it. |
| Acceptance of: |
Other Dogs - Not very accepting |
| Other Pets - Average |
| Strangers - Not very accepting |
| Children - Not very accepting
|
| Watchdog Ability |
Excellent |
| Guard dog Ability |
Good |
| Ease of Training |
Below average |
| Living Conditions |
It is content to live outdoors and can tolerate a fair amount of cold. |
| Exercise |
It requires regular exercise such as a walk or exploring time in a safe area. It is not a dog that likes to play, so a game or play time may not be suitable. |
| Coat |
It has a two layered coat. The outer coat stands away from the body. It is profuse, thick, and soft. The undercoat is softer and wooly. The smooth coat variety has a shorter outer coat. |
| Grooming |
The smooth type requires brushing once a week while the longer haired rough coat requires brushing twice a week or more. |
| Colors |
It comes in black, blue, cream, fawn and red. |
| Height and Weight |
Weight range is 45 to 65 pounds (20.4 to 29.5 kg) while the height range is 18 to 22 inches (45.7 to 55.9 cm). Variations may occur in individual animals. |
| Life Expectancy |
10 to 12 years. |
| Group |
The AKC places the Chow Chow dog in the Non-Sporting group. |