They will stand proudly and be aloof; this is typical Chow Chow behavior and is the way it should be. They can also be stubborn, protective and sometimes aggressive. The first thing you are likely to notice when encountering a Chow Chow for the first time, is its distinctive blue tongue.

The Chow Chow dog breed ranges in height from eighteen to twenty-two inches at the shoulders, and in weight from about fifty to eighty pounds. Their life expectancy is approximately twelve to fifteen years.

Chow Chow’s can be found in solid shades of, black, red, cinnamon, cream, and blue. It has small round ears and a fluffy ruff around its collar similar to a lion’s mane. It has a broad head that is almost flat in appearance. Chow Chow’s have a thick bushy tail that is held up high on its back.

In spite of its large size the Chow Chow can live happily in an apartment or home with a small yard. They can be physically lazy and inactive and should be encouraged to exercise to help keep them healthy. Most Chow Chow’s will prefer to follow one owner as opposed to readily taking orders from the entire family.

Chow Chow’s can be traced back nearly two thousand years to China and were first kept by vicious Mongolian tribes as working dogs. The Chow Chow breed because of its large size and strength was used mainly for guarding things, hunting, herding, and pulling heavy carts and sleds.

A puppy is a lot of fun to have, and a lot of work. But, you may want to consider an older dog from Chow Chow Rescue. These dogs are not always aged, but they are not puppies. They have usually been surrendered by their families and are most likely housebroken. Rescue dogs may or may not have papers, but they are always pure breed animals. They will make great companions and will love you forever.