Chow Chow, The all around’ dog of China, the only bred not considered royalty. As puppies adorable bundles of fluff and stuff; that grow into bundled pretty creatures of reservation.

History

These massive beauties were bred for multiple purposes in China. One was a source of food. Chow or “Chou” in Chinese means food. Even in America chow is a recognizable word for a meal. Koreans and Chinese both were claimed by British historians to favor a blue tongued Chow with a smooth coat. The long coated dogs were used for their fur and meat. Don’t fret Chow lover’s this dog eating was out-lawed in China in 1915.

The heavy coated dog was also bred for hunting and guard dog duties. The Largelion headed breed used for hunting before the Chinese used firearms. They were alsorecommended as sled & herding dogs. It is speculated that the bred may have originated not in China but the Artic circle and then migrated into Mongolia, Siberia and then China. Other educated guesses is that they’re a cross breed of the Akita and Shar-Pei or a Spitz and an early Mastiff type dog. All that is confirmed is the Chinese revered this ancient work dog and have depicted pictures of them as early as 200 BC during the Han Dynasty.

Personality

While the Chow is now considered a companion dog there are some quirks that may be considered before deciding if this is the right breed. Chow Chow’s are easily trained animals since they’re a versatile breed. Although they’ve a feline like behavior, a Chow will not warm up to strangers without some persuasion of the owner. Even if they are well socialized as a puppy, this is not the first dog to considerfor a congeniality award. They are aloof and loving spirit, dedicated only to the “Pack” family. Males can be more dominant and sometimes need a firm hand in training.

Chows Chows will do well with kids if they’re raised around them. They will protect and even herd youngsters away from danger such as busy roads or strangers. Some adult Chow’s will walk a young child amazingly taking the child where it feels they would be safe. Adult supervision might be required because your lil ones may not make it outside the front yard with an adult dog.

Puppies are clean and cute bundle of fur. They are curious but cautious. Don’t mistake their caution for fear, your sorely mistaken.

Body Type

The normal height of an adult Chow Chow is 17 inches on a female and 20 for a male at the shoulders or withers. The dog is square in profile and lean muscle. Chow’s come in smooth or rough coats.

Elegant and well balanced the Chow should show hisvery special rolling gate and be agile. Never should the Chow look uncomfortable in his/her own body like the lumbering ofMore massivebreeds. The tail should turn over and lay on their back. They should have a Largewrinkled like face and have deep set eyes.

Color should be solid or dual toned; with the lighter shade of color on the longer hairs. Red’s any shade are acceptable, creams, blue (which is rare), and black.

While the Chow Chow won’t win every dog owner over, it is an exceptional and ancient breed. With a scowling expression and gorgeous coat, the Chow is a King and Shepard of his home. He keeps his loved ones under a watchful eye and won’t let any type of predatory mess with what’s his.