Chow Chow
Modified: 30-11--0001 00:00:00
The Chow Chow originated from China , where it is referred to as Songshi Quan which literally means 'puffy-lion dog'. The breed has also been called the Tang Quan, 'Dog of the Tang Empire'.
Appearance
The Chow Chow is stocky with broad skull and small, rounded ears. Their coat is very dense, either smooth or rough. Fur is thickest around the neck, giving the distinctive ruff or mane. The coat may be one of several colours including reddish-brown (described as 'red'), black, blue, cinnamon, cream, or white. Not all these varieties are recognised as valid in all countries. Individuals with patchy or particoloured coats are considered to be outside the breed standard. Chow Chows are unusual in having a blue-black tongue and straight hind legs that result in a rather stilted gait.
Temperament
While commonly kept as a companion dog, the Chow Chow has a reputation for being a willful, independent breed that is sometimes difficult to train. They can be aloof and wary of strangers.
Health
Like many heavy-set dogs, the Chow Chow breed is prone to hip dysplasia. They may also be susceptible to entropion, an eye irritation caused by an eyelid abnormality. This can be corrected with surgery.
History
It is a unique type of dog, thought to be one of the oldest recognisable breeds. A bas-relief from 150 BC (during the Han Dynasty) includes a hunting dog similar in appearance to the Chow Chow. Recent DNA analysis confirms that this is one of the oldest breeds of dog
Chow Chows are believed to have been first bred as a general-purpose working dog for herding, hunting, and guarding. The breed has also been used to pull sleds and for meat and fur.(Editor Yes, people made them pull them places, then ate them and wore them.)
Other relevant pages - Chow Chow |
| We are looking for business relating to the category Chow Chow Breeders to list in our directory. If you operate such a business, please click here and add your business. |
<< Previous Chinook | Back to Dog Breeds | Next >> Cirneco dell'Etna Dog
