Chow Chows are a unique breed known for their fluffy coats, distinctive blue-black tongues, and regal demeanor. With a history that dates back to ancient China, these dogs have captured the hearts of many.
But did you know that mixing a Chow Chow with other breeds can result in some truly remarkable companions? In this article, we’ll explore 25 Chow Chow mixes that are sure to steal your heart. Each mix brings its own special traits and charm, making them wonderful pets for various lifestyles.
Understanding the Chow Chow
Breed Characteristics
Chow Chows are known for their distinctive features, including their lion-like mane and unique coat colors, which can range from red to black, cinnamon, and cream. Here are some key characteristics of the Chow Chow:
- Temperament: Chow Chows are often described as aloof yet loyal. They tend to be reserved around strangers but are devoted to their families.
- Size: Adult Chow Chows typically weigh between 45 to 70 pounds and stand about 17 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder.
- Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Chow Chow is around 12 to 15 years.
Care and Maintenance
Taking care of a Chow Chow requires commitment. Here are some important aspects of their care:
- Grooming: Their thick fur requires regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Aim for at least two grooming sessions per week.
- Exercise: Chow Chows need daily exercise to stay healthy, but their activity level can vary. Regular walks and playtime are essential.
- Training: Early socialization and obedience training are crucial. Chow Chows can be stubborn, so consistent, positive reinforcement is necessary.
The Allure of Chow Chow Mixes
Chow Chow mixes are becoming increasingly popular among dog lovers. Here’s why you might consider one:
Benefits of Mixed Breeds
- Genetic Diversity: Mixing breeds can reduce the risk of hereditary health issues, resulting in a healthier dog.
- Unique Traits: Chow Chow mixes often inherit a blend of characteristics from both parent breeds, making them truly one-of-a-kind.
- Versatile Temperaments: Depending on the mix, you might find a dog that combines the loyal nature of the Chow Chow with the energy of another breed.
The Best Known Chow Chow Mixes
Now, let’s dive into some of the most beloved Chow Chow mixes. Each mix offers its own unique traits and personality, making them appealing to different types of dog owners.
The Chow Chow Husky Mix (Chusky)
The Chusky is a vibrant mix between the Chow Chow and the Siberian Husky. This combination results in a dog that is both playful and loyal.
- Physical Traits: Expect a fluffy coat, erect ears, and striking blue or brown eyes.
- Temperament: Chuskies are energetic and require regular exercise. They are friendly but may have a stubborn streak, requiring consistent training.
The Chow Chow Shar Pei Mix (Chow Pei)
The Chow Pei blends the unique features of the Chow Chow with the distinctive wrinkles of the Shar Pei.
- Physical Traits: This mix often has a stocky build, wrinkled skin, and a plush coat.
- Temperament: Chow Peis are known for their loyalty and protective nature. Early socialization is vital to curb any territorial tendencies.
The Chow Chow Akita Mix (Akita Chow)
The Akita Chow combines the majestic presence of the Akita with the dignified nature of the Chow Chow.
- Physical Traits: Expect a large, strong dog with a dense coat and a curled tail.
- Temperament: This mix is protective and requires proper training and socialization from an early age to ensure a well-rounded temperament.
The Chow Chow Corgi Mix (Corgi Chow)
The Corgi Chow is a delightful mix that brings together the fun-loving Corgi and the serious Chow Chow.
- Physical Traits: Look for a small to medium-sized dog with short legs and a fluffy coat.
- Temperament: Corgi Chows are friendly, intelligent, and playful, making them excellent family pets.
The Chow Chow Labrador Retriever Mix (Chabrador)
The Chabrador combines the playful nature of the Labrador with the Chow Chow’s loyal demeanor.
- Physical Traits: Typically medium to large-sized, Chabradors have a dense coat and an athletic build.
- Temperament: This mix is friendly, outgoing, and eager to please, making them easy to train.
The Chow Chow Golden Retriever Mix (Golden Chow)
The Golden Chow merges the loving nature of the Golden Retriever with the Chow Chow’s unique personality.
- Physical Traits: Expect a medium to large dog with a beautiful, fluffy coat and a friendly expression.
- Temperament: Golden Chows are affectionate and gentle, thriving in family settings.
The Chow Chow American Pit Bull Terrier Mix (Chowpit)
The Chowpit is an energetic mix that combines the strength of the Pit Bull with the Chow Chow’s loyalty.
- Physical Traits: This mix typically has a muscular build and a short coat.
- Temperament: Chowpits are known for their playful nature and can be great family dogs when properly trained.
The Chow Chow Rottweiler Mix (Rottie Chow)
The Rottie Chow combines the power of the Rottweiler with the Chow Chow’s unique temperament.
- Physical Traits: Expect a strong, medium to large-sized dog with a dense coat.
- Temperament: This mix can be protective and requires early socialization and training.
The Chow Chow German Shepherd Mix (Chow Shepherd)
The Chow Shepherd is an intelligent mix that combines the loyalty of the German Shepherd with the Chow Chow’s uniqueness.
- Physical Traits: This mix can vary in appearance but often has a strong build and a thick coat.
- Temperament: Chow Shepherds are loyal and protective, making them great watchdogs.
The Chow Chow Chihuahua Mix (Chow Chow Chihuahua)
The Chow Chow Chihuahua is a smaller mix that packs a lot of personality into a tiny package.
- Physical Traits: Expect a small dog with a fluffy coat and a big personality.
- Temperament: This mix can be feisty and affectionate, making it ideal for apartment living.
The Border Collie Chow Chow Mix (Border Chow)
The Border Chow blends the intelligence of the Border Collie with the unique characteristics of the Chow Chow.
- Physical Traits: Expect a medium-sized dog with a fluffy coat and an alert expression.
- Temperament: Border Chows are energetic and require regular mental and physical stimulation.
The Chow Chow Bernese Mountain Dog Mix (Berner Chow)
The Berner Chow combines the gentle nature of the Bernese Mountain Dog with the Chow Chow’s regal demeanor.
- Physical Traits: This mix is typically large, with a thick, beautiful coat.
- Temperament: Berner Chows are friendly and gentle, making them great family pets.
The Chow Chow Boxer Mix (Boxer Chow)
The Boxer Chow is a playful mix that combines the spirited nature of the Boxer with the Chow Chow’s loyalty.
- Physical Traits: Expect a medium to large-sized dog with a muscular build.
- Temperament: Boxer Chows are energetic and require regular exercise.
The Chow Chow Bull Terrier Mix (Bull Chow)
The Bull Chow combines the unique features of the Bull Terrier with the Chow Chow’s distinct traits.
- Physical Traits: This mix often has a muscular build and a short coat.
- Temperament: Bull Chows are playful and friendly, making them great family companions.
The Chow Chow Pekingese Mix (Peke-A-Chow)
The Peke-A-Chow is an adorable mix that brings together the Pekingese and Chow Chow.
- Physical Traits: Expect a small dog with a fluffy coat and a friendly demeanor.
- Temperament: Peke-A-Chows are affectionate and make excellent lap dogs.
The Chow Chow Poodle Mix (Chowdoodle)
The Chowdoodle combines the intelligence of the Poodle with the Chow Chow’s unique traits.
- Physical Traits: This mix can vary in size depending on the Poodle variety.
- Temperament: Chowdoodles are intelligent, friendly, and easily trainable.
The Chow Chow Pomeranian Mix (Chow Pom)
The Chow Pom is a small and charming mix between the Chow Chow and Pomeranian.
- Physical Traits: Expect a small dog with a fluffy coat and a lively personality.
- Temperament: Chow Poms are playful and affectionate, making them great companions.
The Chow Chow Australian Shepherd Mix
The Australian Shepherd Chow combines the intelligence of the Australian Shepherd with the Chow Chow’s loyalty.
- Physical Traits: This mix is typically medium-sized with a thick coat.
- Temperament: They are energetic and require regular exercise and mental stimulation.
The Chow Chow Samoyed Mix (Samoyed Chow)
The Samoyed Chow blends the friendly nature of the Samoyed with the distinctive traits of the Chow Chow.
- Physical Traits: Expect a large, fluffy dog with a cheerful expression.
- Temperament: Samoyed Chows are friendly and great with families.
The Great Pyrenees Chow Mix
The Great Pyrenees Chow combines the gentle giant nature of the Great Pyrenees with the Chow Chow’s unique characteristics.
- Physical Traits: Expect a large, fluffy dog with a majestic presence.
- Temperament: This mix is typically calm and protective.
The Chow Chow Dalmatian Mix (Dalmachow)
The Dalmachow combines the energetic nature of the Dalmatian with the loyalty of the Chow Chow.
- Physical Traits: Expect a medium to large-sized dog with a short coat.
- Temperament: Dalmachows are active and require regular exercise.
The Chow Chow Bullmastiff Mix
The Bullmastiff Chow blends the protective nature of the Bullmastiff with the Chow Chow’s loyalty.
- Physical Traits: Expect a large, strong dog with a dense coat.
- Temperament: This mix can be protective and requires early training and socialization.
The Chow Chow Newfoundland Mix (Newfie Chow)
The Newfie Chow combines the gentle nature of the Newfoundland with the Chow Chow’s unique traits.
- Physical Traits: Expect a large dog with a thick, fluffy coat.
- Temperament: Newfie Chows are friendly and gentle, making them great family pets.
The Chow Chow Shih Tzu Mix (Chow Tzu)
The Chow Tzu is an adorable mix that combines the Shih Tzu and the Chow Chow.
- Physical Traits: Expect a small dog with a fluffy coat and a lively personality.
- Temperament: Chow Tzus are affectionate and make great companions.
The Chow Chow Weimaraner Mix (Chowmara)
The Chowmara blends the elegant nature of the Weimaraner with the Chow Chow’s unique traits.
- Physical Traits: Expect a medium to large-sized dog with a short coat.
- Temperament: Chowmaras are intelligent and active, requiring regular exercise.
Conclusion
Chow Chow mixes offer a diverse array of characteristics, personalities, and appearances that make them delightful companions. From the energetic Chusky to the affectionate Golden Chow, each mix brings its own unique traits that can fit various lifestyles.
When considering adding a Chow Chow mix to your family, take into account the mix’s temperament, exercise needs, and grooming requirements to find the perfect match for your home. No matter which mix you choose, you’re sure to find a loving companion that will steal your heart.
Final Thoughts
As you explore the world of Chow Chow mixes, remember that each dog is an individual with its own personality and needs. By understanding the unique traits of these mixes, you can find the perfect furry friend that will bring joy and companionship to your life.