Non-Sporting Group - Chow Chow

A member of the spitz family, the Chow Chow has been known in its native China for more than 2000 years. It is the only dog with a black tongue.

Coat: Can be rough-abundant, dense, and coarse, with pronounced ruff around head and neck, and feathering on tail; or smooth-dense and hard. Color Black, red, blue, fawn, and cream.

Features: Broad, flat head; dark, almond-shape eyes; small cars slightly rounded at tips; long, nicely arched neck; broad, deep chest and compact body; tail set on high and carried curled over the back.

Size: Height at shoulders: dogs 19-22 in, bitches 18-20 in. Weight: 45 70 lb.

Care: A daily walk; the full coat requires considerable attention with a wire brush.

Character: The Chow Chow has always had a reputation for ferocity but it is unlikely to attack unless provoked. It is a faithful, odor-free dog, which makes a good pet; it needs firm but gentle handling.