Last Updated: 09/03/2026
Chow Chow Breed Guide
Thinking of a Chow Chow? Our breed guide covers facts, health, and care.
Author: Dr Emilee Lay BVSc BSc (Vet) Hons
Reading Time: 5 minutes - short read
With their distinct lion like appearance, fabulous mane, regal stance and overall presence, it is no wonder that Chow Chows turn heads when they are out and about. To own a Chow Chow is an experience like no other, their loyalty, sassiness and stubbornness are second to none and those who they trust and love have a companion for life! Read on to learn more about this amazing breed!
All about Chow Chows
Place of origin
China
Weight range
20-32kg
Breed size
Medium/Large
Height range
46-56cm
Breed group
Non-sporting
Life expectancy
8-12 years
Coat colours
Red, Black, Blue
Grooming needs
High
Coat type
Thick Double
Health issues
Entropion; Hip Dysplasia
Shedding factor
High
Exercise needs
Moderate
Play Style
Reserved
Housing needs
Indoor/AC focus
Trainability
Low
Social needs
Low
Family suitability
Adult-focused
Tendency to bark
Low
Nutrition
Chow Chows require a calorie-controlled diet to support their unique straight-legged gait and manage a lower activity level. Key focus areas include skin barrier support for their dense coats and maintaining a healthy weight to reduce pressure on their predisposed hips and joints.
Best food for adult Chow Chows
Selecting an adult diet rich in Omega-6 fatty acids and Zinc is essential for maintaining the skin and coat health of a Chow Chow. These nutrients help prevent irritations beneath their thick fur, which is prone to hot spots.
Since this breed often suffers from hip dysplasia, formulas with added Glucosamine and Chondroitin are highly recommended to support joint longevity.
A moderate calorie density is also vital; because they are less active than many breeds, they can easily become overweight.
What to look for
High levels of Omega fatty acids for skin and coat health.
Added Glucosamine and Chondroitin to support joint longevity.
Moderate calorie density to prevent weight gain in less active dogs.
Best food for Chow Chow puppies
Chow Chow puppies require a precisely balanced large-breed formula to ensure steady, controlled growth of their skeletal system. Managing the Calcium-to-Phosphorus ratio is critical to preventing the hips from developing too rapidly, which can lead to dysplasia later in life. These diets should also include DHA sourced from fish oil to support the cognitive development of these independent-minded pups. To aid their sensitive developing digestive tracts, look for recipes featuring prebiotics and beet pulp. Small, frequent meals of highly digestible proteins will provide the necessary energy for growth.
What to look for
Balanced minerals for steady, safe skeletal development.
DHA for cognitive development and early-stage trainability.
Prebiotics and beet pulp to support a sensitive developing gut.
Flea & worming
The Chow Chow’s dense "lion" mane makes it incredibly easy for parasites to hide. Consistent, year-round prevention is mandatory in Australia, as their skin is often highly reactive to flea bites, leading to severe discomfort and secondary infections that can be difficult to treat under thick fur.
Best flea and worming for Chow Chows
For Chow Chows, oral chews are generally preferred over topical treatments because it is difficult to ensure a "spot-on" reaches the skin through their exceptionally thick double coat. An all-in-one monthly chew provides reliable protection against heartworm, intestinal worms, and the Australian paralysis tick, which is a significant threat in coastal regions. These oral formulas ensure excellent efficacy regardless of coat density, giving owners peace of mind that their pet is fully protected.
What to look for
Oral chews that bypass the thick fur for improved efficacy.
Protection against Australian Paralysis Ticks.
Broad-spectrum worming including protection against hydatid tapeworm.
Health
Proactive health management for Chow Chows focuses on joint support, eye hygiene, and temperature regulation. Their unique anatomy requires specific attention to the eyes to prevent irritation from entropion and cooling strategies to manage their high sensitivity to the Australian heat.
Best health products for Chow Chows
Given the Chow Chow’s predisposition to eye issues like entropion, soothing ocular hygiene wipes are essential for removing debris and preventing irritation around their deep-set eyes. To support their straight-stifle hind limbs, advanced joint supplements containing Glucosamine and green-lipped mussel should be started early in life. Additionally, because their thick fur makes them highly susceptible to heatstroke, cooling mats are considered a vital health product. These mats provide a cold surface that helps regulate their core temperature when fans or air conditioning are simply not enough.
What to look for
Soothing eye wipes to maintain hygiene around deep-set eyes.
Advanced joint supplements for their unique hind-limb structure.
Cooling mats to prevent overheating in the Australian summer.
Training & Activity
Training a Chow Chow requires patience and tools that cater to their independent nature. Their lower physical energy means activity should focus on mental enrichment and low-impact exercise that protects their sensitive hips and joints while satisfying their intelligent minds.
Best toys for Chow Chows
Chow Chows are rarely motivated by fetch; instead, they excel at scent-based puzzle toys that engage their independent problem-solving skills. Durable natural rubber chews are ideal for their moderate jaw strength and help keep them occupied without requiring high-intensity movement. Interactive feeders that hide treats are particularly effective at providing mental stimulation, which is just as tiring for this breed as a long walk. It is best to avoid high-impact toys that encourage jumping, as these can put undue strain on their straight hind legs. Variety in textures will keep them satisfied indoors.
What to look for
Scent-based puzzle toys to engage their independent minds.
Durable natural rubber chews for moderate jaw strength.
Low-impact interactive toys that don't strain the hips.
Best walking accessories for Chow Chows
For a breed with a thick ruff like the Chow Chow, a wide, soft-padded harness is the superior choice for walking. Standard flat collars can cause matting and hair breakage around the neck, whereas a harness distributes pressure evenly across the chest, protecting the throat and coat. Heavy-duty leads are recommended for better control during the breed's occasionally stubborn moments. For evening strolls in the Australian twilight, look for gear with reflective stitching to ensure visibility. A well-fitted harness also ensures that the dog cannot slip out, which is important for this reserved breed.
What to look for
Wide, soft-padded harnesses to prevent coat breakage and matting.
Heavy-duty leads for control during their signature "stubborn" moments.
Reflective gear for visibility during cooler evening walks.
Grooming
Grooming a Chow Chow is a high-commitment task requiring specialised tools to manage their dense double coat. Daily brushing is necessary to prevent matting and to ensure the skin remains healthy and ventilated beneath the thick layer of fur to avoid painful "hot spots."
Best grooming products for Chow Chows
Maintaining a Chow Chow’s coat requires a long-pinned slicker brush and an undercoat rake to reach the skin and remove loose fur before it mats. During the twice-yearly "coat blow," professional-grade deshedding shampoos and high-velocity dryers are essential for loosening and removing the dead undercoat. It is vital to use soap-free, pH-balanced oatmeal shampoos to soothe their sensitive skin and maintain the natural moisture barrier. Regular nail maintenance using heavy-duty clippers is also crucial. Keeping the hair between the paw pads trimmed helps with traction.
What to look for
Long-pinned slicker brushes to reach through the thick double coat.
Undercoat rakes specifically designed for heavy-shedding breeds.
Professional-grade deshedding shampoos to loosen the undercoat.
Sleep & Home
Chow Chows require a home environment that prioritises cooling and joint support. Because of their heavy coats, they often seek out cold surfaces to sleep on, making breathable materials and airflow essential for their indoor resting areas in the Australian climate.
Best beds for Chow Chows
For the Australian home, elevated "trampoline" style beds are the gold standard for Chow Chows as they allow for 360-degree airflow to keep them cool. When opting for an indoor bed, orthopaedic memory foam is highly recommended to provide necessary cushioning for their straight hind legs and heavy frame. This support is critical for preventing pressure sores and managing joint stiffness. The bed should feature a removable, machine-washable cover to handle the high volume of shed fur. Placing the bed in a draught-free, cool corner allows the Chow Chow to rest comfortably while watching over their family.
What to look for
Elevated cot-style beds to maximise airflow and cooling.
Memory foam support to cushion "straight" hind legs.
Removable, easy-wash covers to manage the high level of shedding.
Chow Chow FAQ
