I’ve always been interested in Chow Chows… there is just something about their appearance and even their name that catches your attention.
In my hometown, one guy owned a Chow Chow, and I didn’t see them often, but sometimes I would run into them on the street, and every time, I would excitedly think, “oh, I want to have that teddy-bear dog”.
Since then, I have learned a lot more about this breed, and it’s safe to say that I’m even more fascinated by them. You might also find these fun facts about Chow Chows interesting.
1. Purple Tongue Dogs
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Chow Chows are frequently referred to as the dogs with the purple or blue tongue. And, yes… they are one of the unique dog breeds that have a distinctive blue, grayish, purple, and even black tongue. This characteristic is, however, more often seen in lizards than in dogs.
But, these dogs are not born with this distinctive purple tongue. As with any other breed, they are born with a pink tongue. In fact, the color starts to develop as their eyes open.
According to the AKC, by the time the puppy is about six months old, the color should be completely developed; otherwise, the dog won’t be eligible to compete in conformation dog shows.
2. Cat-Like Personality
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If you were to ask a Chow Chow owner what their personality is like, they would most likely tell you that they are similar to cats.
Chow Chows are aloof, proud, independent, strong-willed, and even stubborn. They’re not like other dogs that will rush to greet you, but they will happily observe from a distance… much like felines.
Another characteristic that connects them to cats is their cleanliness. They are extremely clean dogs, and they have very little dog odor if brushed regularly.
3. Unique Looks
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Chow Chows have an exotic-looking coat, so when you see one, you’ll probably think of how fluffy they actually are. It is because of this that they differ from most other breeds of dogs.
And, you can’t miss their curly tail, which is set high and carried close to their back.
4. Two Extra Teeth
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Another unusual feature of Chow Chows is their extra set of teeth. They are the only dogs in the world that have 44 teeth instead of 42, like other dog breeds.
Chow Chow puppies are born with an extra pair of milk teeth, which they usually end up losing; however, this interesting feature makes their infant bite more similar to a wild bear’s one than a dog’s.
5. Suspicious Of Strangers
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Chow Chows are very territorial and protective dogs, which makes them also very suspicious of strangers and even other dogs. If they are not properly trained, things can even get out of control.
However, they are very loyal, and they become pretty attached to one person and their immediate family, which is also one more characteristic that is similar to felines.
6. Retired Working Dogs
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Today, people mostly see Chow Chows as fluffy pets, but during their long history, they played many important roles. They served as hard-working dogs, and were trained to be hunters, guards, and haulers.
At some point, Chow Chows were even companions to the lords. According to the AKC, an emperor of the Tang Dynasty (the 8th century) was so impressed with these dogs that he owned a kennel with 5,000 Chows.
Also, they even served as a food source to their protein-starved homeland at some period.
7. Smart, But Hard To Train
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Chow Chows are smart dogs, but they’re also strong-willed and stubborn, which makes them a bit difficult to train. They need to be exposed to socialization as early as possible, as well as dog training if you want them to grow into well-adjusted dogs.
You need to be a firm and persistent owner because if you’re not, your Chow Chow can easily become the boss of you.
9. Hard To Read
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This is another characteristic that makes this breed of dog so different from others. Chow Chows don’t show too much emotion, like, for example, Golden Retrievers. It’s easy to see when Goldens are happy, but Chow Chows… not really.
They are truly indifferent to those around them, and their behavior is not typical at all. Their face is also covered in fur, and they have a set of small and deeply-set eyes, which only makes it harder to read their expression.
Unless you are someone who is really close to this dog, don’t expect any grand gestures and reactions.
They also seem to have a scowling expression, which is — you guessed it — unique to this breed.
9. A Chow Chow Never Forgives And Never Forgets
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Some dogs are so loyal that they accept everything from their owner, but not Chow Chows… again, think of how cats behave when you do them wrong.
If you betray a Chow Chow once, he will never forget it. They are usually indifferent to what people are doing, except when it concerns them. Any kind of mistreatment (especially neglect and abuse) can significantly affect your relationship with your pet.
10. They Look Like Mini Lions
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The Chow Chow is a truly unique dog with a striking, lion-like appearance that sets it apart from other breeds.
Their thick, fluffy mane and broad, dignified face give them a regal look, almost like a mini lion roaming your living room. Their coat, often in shades of red, black, or cinnamon, adds to their majestic vibe, making them seem both powerful and elegant.
Chow Chows are known for their calm, independent nature and don’t require constant attention. They carry themselves with an air of quiet confidence, and their aloof demeanor only adds to their mysterious charm. With a Chow Chow by your side, you’ll have a loyal companion that looks as though it stepped out of a royal portrait!
11. Chow Chows Shed Like No Other Dog
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Chow Chows may have a majestic, lion-like appearance, but one thing you should be prepared for is their heavy shedding. Their thick double coat, which gives them that regal look, sheds quite a bit, especially during the change of seasons.
You’ll find tufts of fur around your home, so regular grooming is a must to keep their coat in top condition.
Many owners find the effort worth it, as their fur is soft and luxurious. It’s also important to note that while they shed heavily, they don’t have that typical “doggy smell,” which is a plus for some pet owners.
If you’re ready for some extra brushing and vacuuming, a Chow Chow can be a wonderful companion with a truly impressive coat.