Hairless Chinese Crested Dog Care and Health Guide

The Chow Chow is one of the most distinctive and ancient dog breeds in the world. With its lion-like mane, teddy bear appearance, and uniquely blue-black tongue, the Chow Chow is immediately recognisable. Originally from China, where it has existed for thousands of years, the Chow Chow was historically used for hunting, herding, pulling sleds, and as a source of food and fur. Today, the breed is kept primarily as a companion dog and show dog, and it has a devoted following in the UK and worldwide. This guide covers everything you need to know about the breed.

Chow Chow Appearance

The Chow Chow is a medium to large breed, typically weighing between 20 and 32 kg and standing 43 to 51 cm at the shoulder. The breed is compact and heavily built, with a broad skull, a short, deep muzzle, a broad, deep chest, and a characteristic erect, plumed tail carried over the back.

One of the breed’s most distinctive features is its tongue and mouth, which are blue-black or purple — a unique feature shared with only a handful of other breeds, most notably the Shar Pei. The Chow Chow also has a distinctive stilted, slightly stiff gait due to the breed’s very straight hindquarters.

The coat comes in two varieties: rough (the more common variety, with a profuse, dense outer coat and a soft, woolly undercoat) and smooth (with a hard, dense outer coat with no mane or feathering). Accepted colours include red, black, blue, cinnamon, and cream.

Chow Chow Temperament

The Chow Chow is known for being dignified, aloof, and independent. They tend to be reserved with strangers and are not a breed that seeks attention or affection from everyone they meet. They form strong bonds with their immediate family and can be deeply loyal and affectionate with those they trust, but they are not typically effusive or demonstrative in the way that more extrovert breeds are.

Their independence and strong-willed nature mean that they require confident, consistent handling. Early, thorough socialisation is very important, as Chow Chows can become territorial or suspicious if not well-socialised from a young age. They are not well-suited to first-time dog owners.

Chow Chow Exercise Requirements

The Chow Chow has moderate exercise needs. Around 45 to 60 minutes of daily activity is generally sufficient. They are not a high-energy breed and are content with regular, moderate walks. Care should be taken in warm weather, as their dense coat makes them susceptible to overheating.

Chow Chow Grooming

The rough-coated Chow Chow requires significant grooming commitment. The dense double coat needs brushing at least two to three times per week to prevent matting, and more frequently during the twice-yearly heavy shedding periods. Particular attention should be paid to the mane and feathering, where tangles are most likely. The smooth variety requires less grooming but still benefits from regular brushing. Professional grooming is advisable.

Chow Chow Lifespan and Health

The typical Chow Chow lifespan is between 8 and 12 years. Health conditions seen in the breed include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and eye conditions including entropion (inward rolling of the eyelid). Responsible breeders carry out relevant health tests and are transparent about the health status of their breeding stock.

How Much Does a Chow Chow Cost?

In the UK, a Chow Chow puppy from a reputable, health-tested breeder typically costs between £1,000 and £2,500. Always buy from a Kennel Club registered breeder who allows you to see the puppy with its mother and who can provide documentation for health screenings.