Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is a member of the spitz family, it has been native to China for thousands of years. The two most distinctive features of the Chow dogs are its blue-black tongue and its almost straight hind legs, which makes it walk rather stilted.
This breed is alert, independent and strong-willed; it is self-willed to the point of obstinacy. To its owner and family it is friendly. Because of his thick coat it is unsuited for hot climates. A well-bred and well-socialized Chow Chow can be just that an excellent family dog.
Temperament
The Chow- Chow is usually well mannered, but tends to be willful and protective. It is bossy, serious and very independent. It is often a one-person dog, very loyal to its family, though it may act reserved, even with them.
Colors
Black, red, blue, fawn and cream.
Coat
Rough, abundant, dense and coarse with a pronounced ruff around head and neck. Smooth, has a hard dense outer coat with a soft undercoat with no ruff or feathering on its legs and tail.
Health Issues
Due to having small eyes it has the potential to suffer from entropion (eye irritation caused by eyelid abnormality; this can be corrected with surgery). Hip dysplasia can be problem. To help prevent the chance of hip or elbow dysplasia developing make sure your dog is on a healthy, well proportioned diet, and avoid excessive running and jumping while still a puppy as this can be hard on the developing joints. To minimize the risk of your Chow Chow developing any hereditary health issues, you should buy a Chow Chow puppy from a reeputable breeder.
Living Environment
The Chow Chow will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. However a small yard would be ideal. Due to their heavy coat their are fairly sensitive to heat, and must be supplied with plenty of water and shade.