With a mane so imposing it could star in its own fantasy film, the Chow Chow walks like royalty — slow, confident, observant. But this fluff isn’t just for show. Under that dignified exterior is a breed of independence, loyalty, and occasionally perplexing behaviour.
Hold your lion mask steady, though — if you’re curious whether this regal dog fits your world, try our Which Dog Breed Is Best for Me? Quiz before you dive in.
Great Names for a Chow Chow
Names that capture strength, elegance, or quiet power will suit these majestic dogs best:
Regal & strong: Kaiser, Sable, Empress, Titan, Rhea, Orion
Noble & classic: Winston, Eloise, Aurora, Jasper, Celeste, Rufus
Bold & minimal: Rune, Zephyr, Onyx, Slate, Vex, Nyx
Soft contrast: Fern, Willow, Iris, Pearl, Mist, Echo
Still stuck? Our Dog Name Generator on CrazyDogs.club has hundreds more ideas tailored to your style.
Exercise
Chow Chows aren’t marathon runners — their gait is deliberate, dignified, and can tire quickly in heat. But skip their daily walks and you may see restlessness or stubborn refusal to move.
What works best:
- 40–60 minutes of activity daily (split walks are fine)
- Gentle strolls, sniffing, pacing — avoid long runs in heat
- Off-lead time only in very secure areas
- Mental challenges (sniff games, training tasks)
“Chow Chows are very devoted … they can be quite aloof at times.”
Heat & Coat Warning
Their thick coat makes them vulnerable in warm weather. Exercise in cooler times, provide shade and water — overheating is a real risk.
Temperament
Don’t expect extreme friendliness — Chow Chows often present as statues until they decide to trust. They’re reserved, dignified, and choose who they let in. But once bound, that loyalty runs deep.
You’ll often observe:
- Quiet reserve around strangers
- Deep loyalty to “their people”
- Strong sense of personal space
- Sometimes stubborn or independent
“Chows didn’t always warm to new people … early socialisation is important.”
Independent Breed Warning
This is not an “always friendly” dog. Without socialisation and boundaries, aloofness can become standoffishness.
Training
Training a Chow Chow is a challenge of patience and respect. They don’t obey just because you ask; they obey because they understand and choose.
Best strategies:
- Begin early socialisation and structure
- Use positive, clear, consistent reinforcement
- Keep sessions short but meaningful
- Emphasise recall, impulse control, and calm leadership
The World’s First AI Dog Trainer is great here — it can help you tailor training to a Chow’s temperament.
“They are ranked close to the bottom of all dog breeds for working intelligence — reputation for being hard to train.”
Strangers & Watchdog Potential
When someone approaches your home, your Chow Chow might silently rise, inspect, and then decide what to do. They’re often quiet sentinels rather than barkers.
- Tend to bark only when needed
- Can be wary or aloof with newcomers
- With trust and socialisation, they may warm up over time
Other Animals
Chows can coexist with other pets — but it depends heavily on temperament and early exposure. They often value their territory and status.
- Introduce under calm, neutral conditions
- Monitor interactions, especially with smaller or more energetic animals
- Respect that they may not always be playful companions
Grooming
Under that majestic coat lies a serious grooming responsibility. That mane demands your time and attention to stay healthy.
What to maintain:
- Brushing 2–3 times a week (more in shedding season)
- Occasional baths, careful drying
- Check and clean skin folds (especially around neck and behind ears)
- Nail, ear, and dental hygiene
Shedding & Coat Volume Warning
Expect large amounts of fur, especially in seasonal “blow.” If you’re not ready to brush daily, this breed will push back.
Health
The Chow Chow’s impressive build and coat hide several breed-specific vulnerabilities.
Watch out for:
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Eye problems (entropion, ectropion)
- Skin issues (hotspots, allergies)
- Heat stroke risks
“Chows are loyal, strong-willed … with a strong guarding instinct.”
Always check for health clearances, breeder history, and genetic testing. Use the Best in Breeder Guide to vet responsibly.
Cost of Ownership
They may sit like a statue, but Chow Chows still cost to maintain:
- Puppy price: £1,200–£2,500 (depending on line, health)
- Insurance: £60–£120+/month (due to genetic and health risks)
- Food: £40–£70/month (heavy coat, robust metabolism)
- Grooming supplies: £15–£40/month (brushes, shampoos, tools)
- Vet & specialist care: £200–£500/year (eye, hip, skin treatments often necessary)
Famous Owners & Moments
- Freud’s companion Jofi was a Chow Chow, known to sit loyally by his side during therapy sessions.
- In ancient China, Chows guarded palaces, pulled carts, and acted as meat dogs — their history is long and varied
Myth-Busting
| Myth | Truth |
|---|---|
| “They drool like mastiffs.” | Most Chows are neat; they don’t drool heavily. |
| “All Chows are aggressive.” | Many are aloof, not aggressive — temperament is heavily shaped by socialisation. |
| “Thick coat means cold weather only.” | Their coat protects, but they still need care in heat. |
FAQs
Are Chow Chows good with children?
They may tolerate calm, older children, but due to their reserve and strength, interactions must be gentle and supervised.
Do they shed a lot?
Yes — their coat is thick and sheds heavily, especially seasonally.
Are they easy to train?
No — their independent streak makes training slow. Consistency, patience, and respect are key.
How much exercise do they need?
About 40–60 mins daily, with mental stimulation and careful timing in warmer weather.
Thinking of Bringing One Home?
If you want a dog that’s majestic, calm, loyal, and challenges you to be consistent, a Chow Chow might be your match. But be ready to care for its coat, health quirks, and temperament gently.
Start with our New Puppy Paw-rent Planner and let us immortalise that lion’s mane in a Custom Cartoon Pet Portrait.
Breed Stats
- Size: Medium to large
- Weight: ~23–32 kg (varies)
- Lifespan: ~8–12 years
- Best Trait: Loyalty, dignity, unique coat
- Challenging Trait: Stubbornness, grooming, heat tolerance