Chow Chow

Weighing 45–70 lb (20.4–31.8 kg) and standing 17–20 in (43.2–50.8 cm) tall, the Chow Chow is a large representative of the Non-Sporting Group. AKC registration statistics place it at #88 in popularity. The breed traces its roots to China. As with most breeds, males occupy the top of the size range.

How long do Chow Chows live? Based on published breed data, a typical lifespan is 8–12 years. Lifespan is influenced by size, since smaller dogs generally outlive larger ones, alongside genetics, body weight, dental care and regular veterinary checkups. Keeping a Chow Chow lean, exercised and current on preventive care is the most practical way to reach the upper end of that range. As with all large breeds, lifespan tends to run shorter than in small dogs, which makes weight management and preventive care count double.

Apartments can work with a solid exercise routine, though more space is preferable. Shedding is moderate; expect some hair on furniture, heaviest during seasonal coat changes. Plan on a middle-of-the-road grooming routine: weekly brushing plus trims now and then. No low-shedding claim applies here. Allergy sufferers should spend time with the breed before committing.

A balanced activity level — think one good walk and a play session most days. Most pick up basics readily but keep sessions short; boredom arrives quickly. Most do fine with respectful children, especially when raised together. Canine housemates generally work out fine, though same-sex pairs can need more management.

We benchmark every breed against the other 152 in our data: at an average 26.1 kg sits heavier than 63% of them. Why care about percentile? Food cost, equipment sizing and even drug dosing scale with body weight, not breed fame. All figures on this page come from the AKC breed profile cited below, and the calculators linked here use those same numbers for feeding portions, crate sizing, age conversion and first-year costs. Because breed-specific health risks affect veterinary spending, comparing pet insurance while your dog is young and healthy is usually worthwhile.