SNon-Sporting
Shiba Inu
SmallEnergy: Moderate · 1 WagLine dog
A foxy, independent Japanese spitz — alert, clean, and cat-like.
View Breed GuideCNon-Sporting
Breed Guide
Non-Sporting
Chow Chow
“Lion look. Loyal heart.”
A lion-maned, dignified ancient breed — aloof, loyal, and famously independent.
Size
Medium
Weight
55–70 lb
Lifespan
8–12 years
Energy
Low
Grooming
High
At a Glance
Quick Stats
Group
Non-Sporting
Size
Medium
Height (M/F)
17–20 in / 17–18 in
Weight (M/F)
55–70 lb / 45–60 lb
Lifespan
8–12 years
Exercise Needs
Moderate
EnergyLow
TrainabilityAdvanced
GroomingHigh
SheddingHigh
ExperienceAdvanced
The Breed
Overview
An ancient Chinese breed used for hunting, guarding, and pulling, the Chow Chow is a lion-maned, dignified spitz. Its aloof independence and blue-black tongue define the breed.
Origin
China
Original Purpose
Hunting, guarding, and pulling
Temperament
Aloof, loyal, dignified, independent
Best Known For
A lion-maned, dignified ancient breed — aloof, loyal, and famously independent.
Character
Temperament
Chows are typically aloof, loyal, and dignified. They bond with family but are reserved with strangers and often one-person dogs. They are independent, cat-like, and strong-willed.
Affection & Family
Loyal to the family; often one-person; aloof with strangers.
Independence
Aloof, loyal, dignified, independent
Social Behavior
Variable — can be dog-aggressive; socialize early.
Protective Instincts
Aloof, loyal, dignified, independent
With Children
Variable — not tolerant of rough handling; better with older children.
With Other Dogs
Variable — can be dog-aggressive; socialize early.
Movement
Energy & Exercise
Needs moderate daily exercise — walks and play. They are calm but need activity to stay fit.
Recommended Activities
Long walksObedienceHikingTrail walks
Partnership
Training
Smart but fiercely independent and aloof; need patient, consistent, firm handling and early socialization. Not for first-time owners.
Trainability
Advanced
Experience Level
Advanced
Coat Care
Grooming
A thick double coat (rough or smooth) that needs regular brushing and sheds heavily — high maintenance.
Grooming Needs
High
Shedding
High
Wellness
Health
Watch for hip and elbow dysplasia, eye conditions, and bloat. This guide is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for veterinary advice.
Every dog is an individual. This guide is general and educational — not a diagnosis or guarantee. Always consult a veterinarian for breed-specific or personal health concerns.
Heritage
History
Bred to hunt, guard, and pull, the Chow's independence and dignity still suit a calm, devoted companion life.
Origin
China
Original Purpose
Hunting, guarding, and pulling
Lifestyle Fit
Best For
EXPERIENCED OWNERS
HIGH GROOMING
RURAL LIVING
Apartment Suitability
Possible with adequate exercise.
Yard Requirements
A fenced yard is recommended.
Real WagLine Dogs
Meet Chow Chows on WagLine
No WagLine dogs of this breed yet.
Be the first Chow Chow on WagLine.
Add your dog to the breed hub and start sharing adventures with owners of the same breed.
Add My DogDiscovery
Find Chow Chows near you
Discover WagLine dogs of this breed around your area. Only locations owners have chosen to share are shown — never exact private addresses.
Breed Community
Chow Chow Community
Join 0 members following the Chow Chow community. Share adventures, training tips, and stories with owners of the same breed.
0
Members
0
Posts
0
Dogs
Breed Posts
From the Chow Chow community
No posts yet
Be the first to share a Chow Chow post — adventures, training, or a tip.
On WagLine
Popular Activities
Most popular with Chow Chows on WagLine.
01Long walks
02Obedience
03Hiking
04Trail walks
Based on structured breed recommendations for now — these will reflect real WagLine activity as the community grows.
More To Explore
Related Breeds
More breeds from the Non-Sporting group.
Non-Sporting
PNon-Sporting
Poodle
MediumEnergy: High · 0 WagLine dogs
An elegant, hyper-intelligent athlete in three sizes — athletic, proud, and low-shedding.
View Breed GuideDNon-Sporting
Dalmatian
LargeEnergy: High · 0 WagLine dogs
The spotted coach dog — athletic, enduring, and full of energy.
View Breed GuideThe Directory
Find a reputable Chow Chow breeder
Search AKC-registered, health-tested breeders for the Chow Chow in your area.
WagLine
Know Your Breed. Meet Your Dogs.
Add your Chow Chow to WagLine and join a community of owners who share your breed.