By LAUREN LEONARDI
The Chow Chow is a protective breed that has been around for hundreds of years. Learn more about this furry companion and their health needs here.
The Chow Chow, thought to be one of the oldest breeds of dogs, comes from China. Its name translates to “puffy lion dog”. This breed is known to have problems with its eyelids and eyes. Like many breeds, it is also subject to joint and bone troubles. Because of its thick fur, the Chow Chow does not tolerate heat well and may have problems with fleas. The dog tends to be very protective of its owners and as such has gotten a reputation for being somewhat aggressive. The Chow Chow typically lives to be about 8 to 12 years old.
PRIMARY HEALTH CONDITIONS OF THE CHOW CHOW
The Chow Chow has inherited a range of eye and eyelid problems, some of which can be surgically treated, although breeding healthy dogs is considered the best prevention. Entropion is a condition in which the dog’s eyelids turn inward instead of out, causing irritation and infection if not properly cared for. Entropion can be corrected with surgery. The Chow Chow is also predisposed to glaucoma, or damage of the optic nerve, which can lead to blindness. Care should be taken to select breeders who breed healthy dogs. The Chow Chow is also at risk for genetically inherited autoimmune disease.
SECONDARY HEALTH CONDITIONS OF THE CHOW CHOW
Like Bulldogs, the folds on the Chow Chow’s face need to be cleaned and kept dry to prevent irritation and infection. If problems occur, daily cleaning could be required. So too does the Chow Chow need continual care of its thick coat. Problems with matting, fleas, and irritated skin can result without regular brushing and washing. The Chow Chow is subject to many of the same joint and bone problems associated with most purebred dogs, including hip dysplasia, when the hip joint becomes unstable; as well as patellar luxation, a condition of the knee. Surgery and weight management are the typical treatments for these conditions.
CHOW CHOW EXERCISE AND WALKING NEEDS
The Chow Chow needs only moderate exercise and is often content to stay inside and sleep. However, with a dog this large, hip dysplasia can occur when the dog is too sedentary. Short walks and romps are usually sufficient. The dog does need stimulation and attention from its owner or it can become bored and at times destructive. The thick coat of the Chow Chow can make heat intolerable to the dog, and its owner should be alert to signs of overheating and overexertion.
CHOW CHOW NUTRITIONAL NEEDS
The Chow Chow is a big dog, upwards of 80 pounds, and as such has a good appetite. Though this breed can spend a lot of time sleeping or lying down, so care should be taken not to overfeed the Chow Chow. Its thick coat requires a quality food rich in proteins and nutrients so that its fur stays sleek and full.