Chow Chow

Chow Chow Grooming Profile

Chow Chows are medium-sized, dignified dogs that reach full maturity by age two. They are heavy shedders with dense double coats requiring daily brushing to prevent matting, and their 2.5-3 cup daily diet must be carefully managed to support their sturdy build and prevent obesity.

Breed Group

Spitz Dogs

Country of Origin

China

Breed Size

Large

AKC Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1903

FCI Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1957

Allergy-friendly

Worst Choice

1 / 10

Shedding

Heavy

Grooming need

Daily/Professional

Low-maintenance

Very Hard

1 / 10

Size

Medium

6 / 10

Growth timeline

18-24 months

5 / 10

Grooming FAQ

Are Chow Chow hypoallergenic or allergy-friendly?

Chow Chows are not hypoallergenic. Their dense double coat sheds moderately to heavily year-round with heavy seasonal blowouts, and combined with their saliva, can significantly trigger allergic reactions in sensitive owners.

Allergy-friendly: 1 / 10

Do Chow Chow shed?

Chow Chows are heavy shedders with a thick, dense double coat. They lose hair consistently throughout the year and undergo significant seasonal blowouts in spring and fall. Owners must commit to daily brushing during these periods to manage the profuse shedding and maintain their distinctive, lion-like appearance.

How often should you groom a Chow Chow?

To maintain a Chow Chow’s profuse double coat, regular grooming is essential. While smooth-coated types need less frequent care, the more common rough-coated variety requires daily brushing to prevent painful matting and manage shedding. Both benefit from a weekly thorough grooming routine to keep their lion-like appearance pristine.

Are Chow Chow low-maintenance dogs?

Chow Chows are not considered low-maintenance dogs. Their dense double coat needs daily brushing on the common rough-coated variety to prevent painful matting, and their independent, stubborn nature calls for patient, consistent training from an experienced owner.

Low-maintenance: 1 / 10

How big do Chow Chow get?

Adult Chow Chows are sturdy, medium-sized dogs that typically stand 17 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder. Most adults weigh between 45 and 70 pounds. Their square silhouette and powerful, balanced frame contribute to their dignified, lion-like appearance and noble, steady posture.

Size: 6 / 10

When do Chow Chow stop growing?

Chow Chows typically reach their full adult height between 12 and 18 months of age. While their skeletal growth slows, they continue to fill out and gain muscle mass until they are about two years old.

Growth timeline: 5 / 10

How much should a Chow Chow eat?

Adult Chow Chows typically require 2.5 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Monitor their weight closely to maintain their sturdy build and adjust portions based on their daily activity.

Feeding amount: 6 / 10

How often should a Chow Chow puppy eat?

Chow Chow puppies require frequent meals to support their steady growth. Puppies under three months may require four meals per day before transitioning to three meals until they reach six months of age. Afterward, transition to two meals per day.

Puppy feeding frequency: 5 / 10

Vet Insights

Chow Chows are medium-sized, dignified dogs that reach full maturity by age two. They are heavy shedders with dense double coats requiring daily brushing to prevent matting, and their 2.5-3 cup daily diet must be carefully managed to support their sturdy build and prevent obesity.

Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
VeterinarianResearcherDog breed specialist
Verified