Shaving your Chow Chow's coat can cause changes in the
texture of the fur when the hair grows back in.
In warmer climates, the dog's thick coat can actually
serve as an insulator to keep the dog cool. When the fur
is shaved away, your dog can overheat more easily.
This breed is prone to hot
spots more than other breeds, and shaving may worsen
this problem in some cases. If you notice any signs of
irritation on your Chow Chow's skin, consult with a
veterinarian about ways to provide your dog with relief,
such as medicated creams and shampoos.
Chow Chow Health
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.
