
Chow Chow Training Profile
Breed Group
Spitz Dogs
Country of Origin
China
Breed Size
Large
AKC Recognition
Yes, recognized in 1903
FCI Recognition
Yes, recognized in 1957
Mental stimulation needs
Average Needs5 / 10
Trainability
2 / 10
Picky eater
Picky Eater3 / 10
Easy to train
Independent4 / 10
Training stubbornness
Very Stubborn2 / 10
Puppy training
Needs Patience1 / 10
Training FAQ
Are Chow Chow easy to train?
Chow Chows are notoriously difficult to train because they lack the eager-to-please nature of other breeds. Their independent, cat-like temperament and strong-willed personality mean they often question commands. Success requires extreme patience, consistent leadership, and high-value rewards to overcome their natural stubbornness and aloof demeanor.
Easy to train: 4 / 10
Are Chow Chow stubborn to train?
Chow Chows are famously independent and cat-like, often leading to a reputation for stubbornness. They are intelligent but prefer to think for themselves, frequently choosing when to obey commands. Successful training requires extreme patience, firm consistency, and positive reinforcement to overcome their dignified, strong-willed nature.
Training stubbornness: 2 / 10
How do you train a Chow Chow puppy?
Focus on early socialization and consistent, reward-based training. Expose the puppy to various people, sounds, and environments to manage their protective instincts. Keep sessions short and engaging to accommodate their independent nature.
Puppy training: 1 / 10
How difficult is potty training in Chow Chow?
Chow Chows are considered one of the easiest breeds to housebreak due to their naturally clean, cat-like nature. They instinctively avoid soiling their living space and often require very little effort to learn proper potty habits.
Potty training difficulty: 10 / 10
How many walks does a Chow Chow need?
Chow Chows have moderate exercise needs, typically requiring 45 to 60 minutes of activity daily. This is best achieved through two 20-minute walks during cooler times of the day to prevent overheating.
Walking need: 6 / 10
What is the best daily routine for a Chow Chow?
A Chow Chow's daily routine should focus on thorough grooming and temperature regulation due to their thick double coats. Provide two 20-minute walks during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning and evening, to prevent overheating. Feed adult Chows twice daily and incorporate short, creative training sessions to engage their independent minds. Essential daily care includes frequent brushing to prevent matting and checking their eyes and ears, while allowing for plenty of quiet rest as they are naturally low-energy and independent.
Routine need: 6 / 10
Vet Insights
Chow Chows are dignified, independent dogs that require patient training due to their stubborn, cat-like nature. They have moderate exercise needs, requiring short walks to prevent overheating. Their thick double coats demand extensive grooming and temperature regulation. While fiercely loyal to family, early socialization is vital to manage their aloof and protective instincts toward strangers.
























