Chow Mix

Chows are popular in the United States and chow mixes are easy to find. If you welcome a chow mix into your family, it's important to understand all you can about the chow. These dogs are not for the inexperienced dog owner. The history of the Chow remains largely unknown. Statues and figurines of the dog have been found dating back to the Chinese Han Dynasty. The dog is thought to have been used for herding, hunting and protection. Some people believe that the chow is the original ancestor of the Pomeranian, Samoyed, Keeshond and Norwegian Elkhound.

The Chow Mix is about 20 inches at the withers but may be larger or smaller depending on its ancestry. The dog has a large, square head and heavy bones. The broad, flat skull and furrowed brow give the chow a permanent scowl. Your mix may closely resemble the chow, but your mix may more closely resemble its other parent’s breed.

Personality

The chow is an affectionate dog that is loyal to its family. The dog is typically reserved with and wary of strangers. More cat-like than dog-like, the chow is stubborn, independent and not always eager to please. If you choose to bring a chow into your home, it must be socialized well if you want to have a well-mannered, friendly adult dog. Chows can get bored quickly. This working dog needs plenty of exercise and a job to do. A chow left to its own devices can quickly get itself into trouble.

Breed Characteristics

Chow Mix Build Information

The Chow Mix is about 20 inches at the withers but may be larger or smaller depending on its ancestry. The dog has a large, square head and heavy bones. The broad, flat skull and furrowed brow give the chow a permanent scowl. Your mix may closely resemble the chow, but your mix may more closely resemble its other parent’s breed.

Behaviour and Personality

The chow is an affectionate dog that is loyal to its family. The dog is typically reserved with and wary of strangers. More cat-like than dog-like, the chow is stubborn, independent and not always eager to please. If you choose to bring a chow into your home, it must be socialized well if you want to have a well-mannered, friendly adult dog. Chows can get bored quickly. This working dog needs plenty of exercise and a job to do. A chow left to its own devices can quickly get itself into trouble.

Appearance

The Chow mix has a rough, double coat. Daily brushings are important if you hope to help your chow mix maintain a lovely coat. Chows do not need bathed frequently. Your dog should have a bath only if it becomes dirty or begins to smell poorly. Your chow mix should have its toenails clipped and ears cleaned monthly. You may want to consider brushing your Chow's teeth daily. If this is the case, be sure to get your puppy used to having its teeth brushed early on.

Chow Mix Common Health Conditions

Health issues common to the chow include elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, cataracts, distichiasis, glaucoma, patellar luxation, cancers, and gastric torsion. Other health issues that your mix may be predisposed to depend on the breed of its other parent.

Chow Mix Pet Insurance

When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.

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Breed Talents and Facts

Chows are not a breed for inexperienced dog owners due to their strong will. Mixed breed dogs can inherit the best and worst of its ancestors. Chow mixes are typically loyal to their human families. Your chow mix may not be accepting of other pets in the house. Knowing the health issues that your puppy's ancestors are predisposed to will give you a good idea of what you may face with your dog. There are no common nicknames for the various chow mixes available.