The Chow Chow is a dog breed that is very cute at first glance. But be careful; they can be very aggressive. Even though they are expensive, some people love them and are willing to pay for them.
Chow Chows cost between $800 and $1,600. They are popular because they look like giant teddy bears, which drives up the price. They require a monthly maintenance cost of about $100, which will come from grooming. Surprisingly, despite their size, they do not eat that much food because of their low-maintenance personality, which means you do not need to spend too much time with them.
Below, we will look at the actual cost of owning a Chow Chow. We want you to be fully prepared for your new pup. But first, let’s take a look at why they are so popular and expensive, despite their sketchy reputation.
How Much Is A Chow Chow?
With a $800 to $1,600 price range, Chow Chows fall within the mid-range price group of dog breeds.
Chow Chows are also a little over the average maintenance costs, which often get higher with sickly Chows. While they may not be the most expensive dog breeds, these pups are still quite pricey. Here are some of the main reasons why.
Unique Aesthetic
Dogs’ aesthetics often determine their demand and prices. Chow Chows are no exception. Their thick, fluffy coat, cute face, and compact build appeal to a large population of dog lovers.
Niche Demand
Surprisingly, rather than its aesthetics, Chow Chow’s controversial personality is what makes the breed popular. Chow Chows are not great family dogs, nor are they ideal for first-time owners.
Chow Chows are not as social and eager to please their owners as other dog breeds. They are not the easiest to train either. We will get into more of these traits in the article.
However, no price is too high for those in the community who love Chow Chows and view them as misunderstood.
Chow Chow Are Relatively Rare
Chow Chows are expensive also because they are a rare breed. Their rarity can be attributed partly to laws that make it hard to breed, sell, and own them. It also makes it hard to get them for a lower price from places like rescue shelters or online platforms.
How Long Do Chow Chows Live?
Chow Chows live for about 9 to 15 years.
Chow Chows are a long-lived breed of dog. However, this does not mean that they do not have health problems. Here are a few primary health concerns and what they could mean for your Chow.
Cancer
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in a Chow Chow. Most of the tumors appear in later years and are unfortunately often discovered when they have progressed and even spread. The most common are gastric tumors, skin cancer, and lymphomas.
Cataracts
Cataracts can occur in Chow Chows at any age but are more common in older dogs. However, juvenile cataracts can also affect Chow Chows and can lead to blindness and a decreased quality of life.
Diabetes
Chow Chows are known to develop diabetes even if they are not obese. This may be because of their high-carb diet. Diabetes can be manageable when it is found early, but it can cause problems in various parts of the body, including the brain and kidneys, if it is not managed well.
Canine Pemphigus
Canine Pemphigus is an autoimmune skin disease that results in skin irritation with blisters and boils. These usually rupture and may become infected, resulting in several wounds all over the body. It is one of the main reasons why Chow Chows sometimes smell so bad.
How To Take Care Of Chow Chows?
Peaceful coexistence with a Chow Chow is heavily reliant on the environment you create for them. They are less likely to act out if they feel happy, safe, and comfortable. Here are a few essential general care tips to help you give your pup the best home possible.
Figure Out The Best Meal Plan For The Doggy
Chow Chows have unique dietary requirements. As a result of their historic upbringing on a largely low-protein diet, they are prone to many food allergies involving most meats. These include beef, lamb, and even chicken options that Chow Chow should avoid.
If you have no idea where to start with shopping for dog food in this case, we recommend you try a Pet Plate. Their wide variety of recipes, high-quality ingredients, and customized menus is precisely what you need to keep your Chow Chow healthy.
Include Multivitamin Supplements In Their Diet
Vitamins like A, D, E, and a bunch from the Vitamin B complex are crucial for a Chow Chow’s health. However, they are not always available or adequate in most diets. Multivitamin supplements boost their levels, ensuring general improvement in the health status and addressing specific health needs.
Make Vet Visits A Regular Thing
Many of the health issues highlighted above are only so devastating as they are often picked up on when they have progressed and become complicated. Regular veterinary visits allow these health issues to be identified and dealt with as soon as possible. This increases Chow Chow’s lifespan and their quality of life.
Are Chow Chows Cuddly? Temperament Of Chow Chows
There is no sugar-coating that the Chow Chow can be a dangerous dog.
However, it is safe to conclude that this is not a dog you want to get as a first-time dog owner if you have other smaller dogs or young children in the house.
Very Reserved
Chow Chows are pretty laid back most of the time despite their reputations. Chow Chows only display aggressive behavior when they feel threatened or are frustrated for some reason or other.
Independent
Chow Chows are pretty independent and very much enjoy their own company. Chow Chow is an independent dog breed that can quickly be left alone if you are away a lot for work or errands. Just make sure they have enough food, water, and favorite toys.
However, you should also be prepared to be ignored by your Chow Chow when you may need them most. Chow Chows are not keen to please their owners compared to many other dog breeds.
Loyal
These doggies are also known for their fierce loyalty and deep affection for their owners. They love their human companions and will not hesitate to protect you if they feel you are threatened. It is no wonder that they still have a fan base.
Intelligent
Chow Chows are very smart. However, they are not easy to train because they are often very aloof and disinterested. Professional training courses for the dogs start at about $100, with an extra $50 to $100 for toys and other training equipment.
Start early and stock up on rewards to keep their attention if you choose to do it yourself. You could also try out the Brain Training for Dogs program for simple yet effective guidelines on training your doggy.
Do Chow Chow Shed A Lot? Grooming Tips For Chow Chows
The Chow chow may have a lot of faults, but aesthetics are not a part of this list. These doggies are defined as “fluff balls” with thick, fluffy coats. You would think that these dogs are very high maintenance with so much fur to work with.
This is not the case as they do not shed very much. It would cost you not more than $90 to get your Chow Chow professionally. You could also decide to do it yourself. Here are a few essential grooming tips, so you know how to best play your part.
Brush Their Fur 3 Times A Week
Chow Chow coats need regular brushing to deshed and eliminate any tangles. Regular brushing helps with the aesthetics of it all and when it comes to maintaining a healthy coat.
Wash The Dog Once Every 2 Months
Chow Chows are also inherently very conscious of their cleanliness, leaving you with very little to do. However, you still need to ensure they get a proper bath at least once every two months.
Take Care Of Dental Hygiene
It is probably easier to deal with a Chow Chow’s bad temper than it is to deal with their horrible breath. They are prone to tartar buildup, dental cavities, and gum diseases in cases of severe neglect of oral hygiene.
The great thing is that their care is relatively easy. Just get natural dental water additives and dog chew toys, and you should be good to go. And, of course, making it a habit to brush their teeth regularly with dog toothpaste from a reputable brand is a must.
Related Questions
Why Do Chow Chows Have Blue Tongues? One of the most exciting things about Chow Chows is that they have dark tongues ranging from blue and lavender to black. This is just a part of their genetic makeup. What is even more interesting is that they are not born that way. Instead, they have pink tongues at birth that slowly darken over six months.
Are Chow Chows Banned In The US? Chow Chows are not banned everywhere in the United States. This is except for a few counties and cities in Missouri. They are, however, heavily regulated in most parts of the country in terms of ownership, breeding, and having them out in public.
Can A Chow Chow Beat A Pitbull? The Pitbull is the most dangerous dog in the world. While this is a measure of potential danger to human beings, they are just as formidable when set up against other dog breeds. Against a Chow Chow, the pitbull’s more vicious approach to attacks is an advantage.
