Where the Chow Chow came from
The Chow Chow is an old breed from China. The AKC calls it an all purpose dog of ancient China. A DNA study suggests the breed comes from indigenous dogs of central China.
Chows were used for hunting, guarding and, in some accounts, pulling. The origin of the name Chow Chow is uncertain. Stories of a ruler with thousands of Chows are legend, not documented history.
The breed has a lion like ruff and a blue black tongue. The AKC recognized the Chow Chow in 1903. Today most live as pets, and they are known for being aloof and serious.
- 1903 AKC recognizes the Chow Chow
The job a Chow Chow was bred for
Chows were used as guards and working dogs. That is why many are reserved, protective of home and family, and not eager to meet strangers or other dogs.
What you may see at home
Aloof, protective, stubborn, picky about other dogs.
Give them: Early socialization, calm structure, and space from visitors.
Sports that fit a Chow Chow
- Scent work. A quiet job that suits a calm, independent dog
- Rally. Gentle obedience done at their own pace
- Trick dog. Short sessions with strong rewards
- Conformation. The breed's look is part of its history
Training tips for a Chow Chow
- Socialize early and often with people, dogs and new places, and pay calm behavior.
- Never force handling. Practice touch, grooming and vet exams in tiny steps with food.
- Keep training short and rewarding, since Chows think for themselves.
- Manage visitors and strange dogs with space and a plan. Do not rely on greetings.
Body and health
The thick double coat needs heavy grooming, and heat is a concern. Hip and elbow problems and eye problems such as turned in eyelids are known in the breed. Ask your vet about screening.
Fun fact. The Chow Chow has a blue black tongue, and the color also covers the lips and mouth.
Breed is where we start
A study of more than 18,000 dogs found breed explains only about 9 percent of the differences in behavior between dogs (Morrill and others, Science, 2022). So your Chow Chow is a starting guess, not a label. We find the drive your dog actually runs on, give it a job, and teach you to read them.
Free tools for your dog
- Breed drive calculatorMixed breed? Add the other breeds and see the drives your dog was bred with.
- Dog breed quizTen photos, four names each. The same quiz our trainers take.
- Dog drive testAnswer everyday moments and find the job your dog runs on.
Looking for a different breed? See what 137 breeds were bred to do, and download any of their guides.