Chow Chow
Male: 25-32 kg, Female: 20-27 kg
Male: 48-56 cm, Female: 46-51 cm at the shoulder
8-12 years
China
About the Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is one of the world’s most ancient and distinctive breeds, instantly recognisable by its lion-like mane, scowling expression, and unique bluish-black tongue. Originating from Northern China, these dogs were prized as versatile workers and protectors of temples. They possess a dignified, almost regal posture and a characteristic 'stilted' gait due to their relatively straight rear legs, which gives them a unique movement unlike any other breed. In a home environment, the Chow Chow is a devoted companion to its family but remains famously independent and reserved. They are not typically 'needy' dogs and are known for their quiet, well-mannered behaviour indoors. While they are intensely loyal to their primary caregivers, they maintain a level of discernment and independence that requires a patient, experienced owner who understands that respect is earned rather than demanded.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the ring, the Chow Chow is a masterpiece of substance and balance, defined by its massive bone structure and the hallmark 'scowl' created by its padded brow and deep-set eyes. The breed's most defining physical trait is the bluish-black tongue and the completely straight hocks, which produce a short, rhythmic, and stilted gait that is unique in the canine world.
In Australia
The breed has been established in Australia since at least 1899, with further imports occurring throughout the early 20th century. The first breed club in Australia, the Chow Chow Club of Victoria, was founded in 1936.
Bred For
A versatile multi-purpose working dog used for hunting, herding, guarding, and pulling sleds or carts.
Temperament
Independent, loyal, aloof with strangers, and remarkably cat-like in their cleanliness and discerning nature.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
(eyelids folding inward), Hip and , , (), and various skin conditions including and allergies.
Exercise Needs
Moderate; they require daily walks of approximately 45-60 minutes but are not high-intensity athletes. They prefer strolls during cooler parts of the day.
Grooming Needs
Extremely high; they require thorough brushing several times a week (daily during shedding seasons) to prevent matting of the dense undercoat.
Living Suitability
Well-suited to apartment living or smaller yards if provided with daily walks, as they are generally inactive indoors. However, they must have access to powerful air conditioning in Australian summers.
Good with Kids
Best suited to homes with older, respectful children who understand how to interact with a dog that values its personal space.
Good with Other Pets
Can be protective or dominant; usually best as an only dog or raised with other pets from a very young age. They have a moderate prey drive toward smaller animals.
Trainability
Highly intelligent but famously independent and stubborn; they do not respond well to harsh corrections and require consistent, reward-based training and early socialisation.
Coat & Colours
Double-coated; can be 'Rough' (thick, abundant, and coarse) or 'Smooth' (short and dense).. Whole colors including Black, Red, Blue, Fawn, Cream, or White, frequently shaded but never particolored.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Chow Chows are predisposed to Entropion, where the eyelid rolls inward—this can cause significant irritation and may require surgical correction, so it's important to monitor their eyes closely. Their thick double coats and somewhat shortened muzzles make them highly susceptible to heatstroke in the Australian climate; they should never be over-exercised in the heat and must have a cool, shaded environment. Many Chows are more likely to develop skin allergies or 'hot spots' if their coat isn't dried thoroughly after bathing or if they are on a high-carb diet; a fresh, raw diet can often help manage this. They are also known for a strong-willed independence that some might call stubbornness—while they are deeply devoted, they think for themselves and won't always see the point in 'sit' or 'stay' unless there's something in it for them. Early and intensive socialisation is vital to ensure their natural guarding instincts remain manageable and they stay relaxed around strangers.
Feeding Guide for Your Chow Chow
Healthy Weight
20-32 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
400-960 grams
For an adult Chow Chow, we recommend feeding a fresh or raw diet consisting of approximately 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily. For a 25kg dog, this equates to 500g-750g per day, divided into two meals. Focus on high-quality proteins like Kangaroo or Fish to support skin health, and ensure the diet includes crushed bone and organ meats for essential minerals.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-quality, anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega fatty acids is ideal to support their thick coat and sensitive skin. They often thrive on fresh, species-appropriate raw diets that avoid common fillers.
A balanced raw diet for a Chow Chow should emphasise skin-supporting proteins. Majestik's Kangaroo or White Fish blends are excellent choices as they are lean and less likely to trigger common skin sensitivities. Adding a small amount of puréed green vegetables and a dash of flaxseed or fish oil will help maintain that iconic thick coat and support joint health.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Chow Chow Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Chow Chow? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
Subscribe & Save on Chow Chow Meals
Get your Chow Chow's fresh and raw meals delivered every two or four weeks. Small subscriptions are combined into a four-week box. Pause, skip or cancel anytime.
Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
4-6 puppies
Chow Chow Owner Feedback
Real experiences and tips from Chow Chow owners
Other Medium Breeds
References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.
