History
The Chow-Chow has been identified as a basal breed that predates the emergence of the modern breeds in the 19th Century.
Care and Health
The Chow-Chow can suffer from entropion, glaucoma, juvenile cataracts, lymphoma, hip dysplasia, diabetes mellitus, canine pemphigus, and gastric cancer. Chow-Chows are a high risk breed for autoimmune disease and are at a predisposition for skin melanoma. Chow-Chows are known to have either short and smooth coat, or a rougher and longer coat. Both create a thick woolly layer, as it gets closer to the skin. They should be brushed four times a week; however shedding seasons may require daily grooming. Also, a spray conditioner can help avoiding breakage and tearing to the thick coat of hair. Lastly, a monthly bath is required to avoid fleas and keep a clean coat of fur.
Fun Fact
Elvis Presley and his girlfriend Linda Thompson had a Chow-Chow named Getlow.
Good For
Watchdogs for the family. They are used for herding, pulling, guarding cattle and sheep.
Attributes
Most commonly kept as pets, Chow-Chows tend to display discernment of strangers and can become fiercely protective of their owners and property. The American Kennel Club standards, however, consider an all-too aggressive or all-too timid Chow-Chow to be unacceptable. For that reason, some owners have attributed a cat-like personality to the Chow-Chow
Traits
Size large, long Fur,
sheds a lot,
medium energy.
