How to Identify a Chow Chow

By eHow Pets Editor

Instructions

Step 1:
Examine the head of the dog. It should be larger than the rest of the body and the facial expression appears as if it looks down on the rest of the world with a scowl. They possess a distinct furrow that begins at the base of the muzzle and extends up into the forehead.
Step 2:
Look at the face of the Chow. They have deep-set eyes and are dark brown with black rims. Their eyes are set wide apart.
Step 3:
Feel the ears and note that they have small, thick ears that are rounded at the tip. When they run, their ears appear to be floppy.
Step 4:
Examine the mouth of the dog. They have pronounced black lips and a remarkable blue-black tongue.
Step 5:
Observe that the Chow is between 17 to 20 inches in height at the shoulder and will weigh between 40 to 70 lbs. The Chow comes in five distinct colors, which are red, cinnamon, black, blue and cream.
Step 6:
Feel the fur of the Chow. They have a double coat that can feel either coarse or smooth. It is a dense coat and composed of straight hair. The tail is feathered.

Tips & Warnings

Because of their strong will and spirit, it is advised that obedience classes be taken as soon as they are old enough. The rewards will pay off in the long run.
Chows are much like cats in their aloofness and are very much into pleasing themselves rather than their owners. They do not tolerate physical punishment well and it may result in vicious attacks. They expect to be treated with dignity and will respond with loyalty if they feel you are worthy of it.
They are very protective and territorial. They are very much a one person or family dog. They have no need of strangers but will accept them guardedly if accepted by their owners.

Resources

Chow Chow Club International homepage

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