Chow Chow

First bred in China over 2000 years ago, the Chow Chow is quite the sought after dog. It's got the distinctive purple tongue we all know so well and has been owned by the likes of Martha Steward and even Elvis. This lion looking dog is also very unique. From the way it walks and carries itself to its aloof personality. Don't plan on lots of cuddle time with the Chow Chow though because this is one dog that appears not to need humans very much. Some have even called this breed the "snob" breed. If you do choose to purchase or adopt a Chow Chow, be sure to keep it cool. It doesn't like hot weather at all and can even overheat if kept in it for too long. Make sure to give it some good exercise and play time and you'll have a happy pet.

Continue reading to learn more about Chow Chows, otherwise known as the dog that looks like a lion and that has a purple tongue.

Popularity: Somewhat popular.

Trainability: The Chow Chow is a challenging dog to train. Some claim that the short-haired version of this dog will be somewhat easier to train, but overall, it's not a very obedient dog. If you were to go about training one, consistency and firmness are key. This breed has also been compared to a cat in that it likes to do its own thing without listening much to the human. This dog can be stubborn and early socialization is important for future good behavior.

Size/Weight: Medium sized dogs, weighing in at an average of 45-70 pounds.

Origin Location/Date: It's been said that the Chow may be the oldest dog breed on earth. It goes back to China and Mongolia about 2000 years ago. After many centuries of popularity in Asia, they became somewhat popular in England and were even kept in the London Zoo and were referred to as the Wild Dogs of China in the early 1800s. In the late 1800s, the Chow was brought to the United States, gained popularity here and were formalized as a breed in the American Kennel Club in 1903.

Energy Level: Chow Chows aren't known for a high energy level, but they must be walked daily for exercise and weight control. They do prefer to be outside as to inside, quite possibly because it's cooler outdoors. When outdoors, make sure shade is provided because these dogs don't like the sun.

Temperament: This dog might look like a cuddly teddy bear, but it certainly isn't one. It's not an affectionate breed. It's much more independent and it usually only attaches itself to just one person. This is a protective breed that will act if its family is under threat, but again, much of its love will be reserved for only one person in that family. For the others, the dog may show a lack of interest. Overall, this is an intelligent dog that can be distrustful of strangers and aggressive to other unfamiliar dogs. It's also highly territorial.

Necessary Space: Since this breed isn't a very active dog and since it doesn't have large exercise requirements, apartment living is fine for it. Just be sure to have someplace it can walk and exercise.

Talents: The Chow Chow has long been known as a powerful ancient working breed, but is now known as a companion for the home. It is, however, shown in show rings across the country due to its Arctic beauty.

Life Expectancy: 9-15 years.

Group: Non-Sporting Group.

A few terms and phrases to describe the typical Chow Chow puppy and dog: intelligent, stubborn, doesn't need much exercise, not very affectionate, not great with kids, not great with families, attaches to only one person, ignores people, beautiful, purple tongue, looks like a teddy bear, protective, territorial and difficult to train.

Find Chow Chow puppies for sale near me. Search our free Chow Chow dog classifieds ads by owner. Find Chow Chows wanted, to adopt, and better than Craigslist.