7 Facts About Chow Chows You Probably Didn’t Know

Best known for their distinctive lion-like appearance and aloof demeanor, the Chow Chow is one of the most unique breeds out there. But there is a lot more to these furry dogs than meets the eye. Here are seven surprising facts about Chow Chows that you probably didn’t know.

1. An Ancient Breed

Chow Chows are one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, with origins dating back to over 2000 years in northern China. They are believed to be one of the first primitive breeds to evolve from the gray wolf. The ancient Chinese used Chow Chows for multiple purposes, including hunting, sled-pulling, and even guarding the home.

2. Unique Blue-Black Tongues

One of the most striking features of Chow Chows is their blue-black tongue. They’re one of the few breeds (the Chinese Shar-Pei is another) to possess this trait. The exact reason for their blue-black tongue is unknown, but it is a characteristic they’re born with.

3. Used as a Food Source

As unpleasant as it sounds, Chow Chows were historically bred for their meat and fur in China. The breed’s name is believed to have originated from the Cantonese word for edible, signifying their unfortunate culinary use. However, this practice has significantly diminished and is now illegal in many places.

4. Living Teddy Bears

Chow Chows were the inspiration for the original teddy bear. In the early 20th century, when President Theodore Roosevelt’s bear hunting trip didn’t go as planned, a toy maker decided to create a stuffed bear and called it “Teddy’s Bear.” When real bears became harder to come by, Chow Chows were used as models instead, due to their fluffy appearance.

5. They Have a ‘Stilted’ Gait

Chow Chows move in a way that is unique to the breed, known as a ‘stilted’ gait. This means that their rear legs are nearly straight and have very little bend at the knee. This gives them a distinctive strut, akin to a marching soldier.

6. Aloof and Independent

Chow Chows are known for their aloof and independent nature. They can be standoffish with strangers and sometimes even with their owners. This isn’t to say they don’t love their human companions; they just express it differently from the overly affectionate dog breeds. Their personality is often compared to that of cats.

7. Serious Shedders

Although their thick, puffy coats are beautiful, they require serious maintenance. Chow Chows are heavy shedders, and their fur needs to be brushed several times a week to keep it in top condition and prevent matting. During the shedding season, they can easily fill a small bag with fur from a single brushing session!

In conclusion, the Chow Chow breed, while recognized for its unique appearance and aloof character, holds a fascinating and complex history. From their ancient roots and unique tongues to their unfortunate history as a food source, teddy bear resemblance, distinct gait, independent nature, and significant shedding, these insights reveal the multifaceted nature of the breed. Whether you’re a proud Chow Chow owner or an admirer of the breed, these unexpected facts provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of these magnificent dogs.