History Definitely one of the most impressive of all breeds, the Chow Chow is an awesome creature with his lion-like appearance and regal manner. Looking a little like a cross between a lion and a bear, the true origin of the Chow is unknown and lost deep within Chinese antiquity. The Chow as it is known today is easily recognizable in pottery and sculptures of the Chinese Han Dynasty (206 BC to 22 AD); other artifacts indicate that he was even a much older breed and may have come originally from the Arctic Circle, migrating to Mongolia, Siberia and China.
Some scholars claim the Chow was the original ancestor of the Samoyed, Norwegian Elkhound, Pomeranian and Keeshond. In more recent times, that is, in the T'ang Dynasty (7th Century AD), it is reported that one Chinese emperor kept 2,500 of these Chow Dogs to accompany his ten thousand hunters! Admired by emperors as well as Western royalty, used by Chinese peasants for food and clothing, and a favorite of the Hollywood movie star set in the 1920's, the Chow Chow has had a dramatic history.
How the Chow got his blue/black tongue is a mystery. An old fable offers a theory: When God was painting the sky blue, He spilled a few drops of paint as he worked. The Chow followed after, licking up the paint and from that day on, the Chow Chow has had a blue tongue!
The Chow came to America by way of England where it had been brought from China in the late 1700's. Sailors returning from the east brought them back in the cargo holds of trade ships. Chow Chow was a slang term applied to the large variety of items carried by these ships. Like a nickname, the term stuck to these dogs.
Chows first appeared at AKC dog shows in the late 1800's. The Chow Chow Club, Inc. (CCCI) was formed in 1906. The breed first knew general popularity in the 1930's when President Calvin Coolidge kept a Chow (Timmy) in the White House. The Chow again soared to popularity in the 1980's. Another notable Chow fancier was Sigmund Freud. After his death, his daughter, Anna Freud, continued to keep his Chows as well as raise her own. Martha Stewart is also a Chow fancier and her chows can be regularly seen on her television show.
For further reading we suggest the following article by David Cavill: The Chow Chow
Personality The Chow Chow's disposition is quite different from other breeds. They are catlike in their attitudes: aloof, reserved with affection, independent, dignified and stubborn. Although their soft fur is ripe for hugging, they do not always enjoy being fussed over by children or strangers. The Chow is very intelligent but like a cat, not as highly motivated to please their masters as most other breeds. They seem to please themselves first. They do not tolerate physical punishment. Hitting or beating a Chow may result in viciousness or a broken spirit. The Chow expects to be treated with dignity and respect. He will return that respect with undying loyalty if he believes you are worthy of it.
The Chow Chow's temperament is often misunderstood by people who do not understand the breed's unique nature. Naturally suspicious of strangers and territorial, they take their homes and families very seriously as well their responsibility to protect what they love. On his own property and without his owner present, the Chow may appear to be quite fierce. He will seldom let a stranger pass unchallenged. People used to the warm welcomes of other breeds may be startled by the seriousness of the Chow. Once greeted by the owner and accepted into the home, the Chow should accept the stranger but may be reserved in his desire to make friends.
The Chow Chow's appearance also contributes to myths about his temperament. The scowling face, small deep-set eyes and lion-like ruff are intimidating. The Chow's natural aloofness, dignity and indifference to people outside his family is often misinterpreted by people who expect all dogs to be outwardly friendly and affectionate. The Chow saves his affections for those he loves most dearly and finds little reason to seek attention from anyone else. He minds his own business and simply does not care what strangers think of him. How it changed my life:I have a chow and I thought all the chow owners on USM would enjoy this bit of info on their beloved pets..This also helps clear up why the chow is misunderstood.
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