Chow Chow
CHOW CHOW
Dignified, Aloof, Serious, Loyal. Originally bred for guarding, pulling sleds, herding.
An adult Chow Chow weighs 45-70 lbs (male) or 40-60 lbs (female), needs 620-1,310 calories daily, and lives 8-12 yrs. This medium-sized breed balances well between manageable size and robust health. The breed's primary health watch is hip dysplasia. All numbers below come from AKC breed standards and NRC 2006 veterinary nutrition formulas.
Nutrition and feeding
A typical adult Chow Chow needs 620 to 1,310 calories per day. An average male (58 lbs / 26.1 kg) needs around 970 kcal; a female (50 lbs / 22.7 kg) roughly 870 kcal. These estimates use the vet-standard RER/MER formula.
Estimate for a typical adult Chow Chow. For puppies, seniors, or specific activity levels, use the full calorie calculator.
Health profile
The Chow Chow has a life expectancy of 8-12 yrs, which is typical for dogs in this size range. The breed's primary health concerns are hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, which responsible breeders screen for before breeding.
Exercise and activity
Moderate; 30-45 minutes daily. Not demanding of exercise. Overheats easily due to dense coat. As a sporting breed, the Chow Chow was developed for endurance in the field. They excel at activities that engage both body and brain: retrieving, swimming, agility courses, and long hikes on varied terrain. Many sporting breeds develop behavioral problems without adequate outlet for their natural drive.
Care and traits
Chow Chows have a profuse double coat (rough or smooth varieties) coat. Origin: China.
One of the most ancient dog breeds. Famous for their blue-black tongue. Cat-like in personality; independent, clean, and reserved with strangers. Not a cuddly breed for most people, but deeply loyal to their one person.
Grooming is a significant time commitment with this breed. Plan for daily brushing sessions and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks. Skipping grooming leads to mats, skin irritation, and potential infection underneath tangled coat.
Heavy shedding is a reality with this breed. Expect dog hair on furniture, clothing, and in every corner of your home. A good vacuum, lint rollers, and acceptance are your best tools. Shedding typically increases during seasonal coat changes in spring and fall.
Training requires patience with the Chow Chow. They are intelligent but may be independent or stubborn about following commands. Keep sessions short, use high-value rewards, and maintain consistency. Harsh corrections backfire with this breed.
Tools for Chow Chow owners
Frequently asked questions
A healthy adult Chow Chow requires between 620 and 1310 calories daily. A 58-pound individual falls near the middle of that range. Adjust portions seasonally if your dog is more active in warmer months and less active in winter. Working or competition dogs may need 20-30% more than resting estimates. Use our calorie calculator with your dog's actual weight for a personalized number.
Males typically weigh 45-70 lbs (20.4–31.8 kg). Females run lighter at 40-60 lbs (18.1–27.2 kg). Medium breeds can carry extra weight without it being visually obvious, especially those with thick coats. Hands-on rib checks are more reliable than looking. Check body condition by feeling the ribs (they should be easy to find), viewing from above (waist should narrow behind the ribs), and from the side (abdomen should tuck up behind the ribcage).
For Chow Chows, hip dysplasia tops the list of breed-associated health conditions. Hip dysplasia is a developmental condition where the hip joint doesn't fit together properly. Screening through OFA or PennHIP before breeding is standard practice. In pet dogs, maintaining a lean body weight is the most effective way to manage and slow progression. Other conditions seen in the breed include elbow dysplasia, entropion, bloat. Regular vet visits with breed-specific screening catch problems when they are most treatable.
Most Chow Chows are content with 30 to 45 minutes of daily exercise. Good activities for this breed include moderate walks, play sessions, training games. Mix physical activity with mental challenges like training, puzzle feeders, or nose work. Even low-energy breeds need daily movement for joint health, weight management, and mental well-being.
Disclaimer: General breed information based on AKC standards and veterinary sources. Individual dogs vary. Calorie estimates use the RER/MER formula (NRC 2006). Consult your veterinarian for advice specific to your dog. See our sources.
Last reviewed: April 1, 2026