Diet

Feeding your Chow Chow well

China

The Chow Chow needs a good-quality diet, easy to digest and adapted to its age, weight and rather moderate activity level. As it may have digestive sensitivity and a tendency to gain weight, regularity and portion control are essential.

A menu for every age

Needs change over time

  • Puppy : The ration must be divided into several daily meals and remain suited to steady growth without excess weight.

  • Adult : Two meals per day are generally suitable, with strict portion control to limit overweight.

  • Senior : A less caloric diet but still easily digestible helps preserve weight, mobility and overall comfort.

Which food?

Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?

A diet rich in quality animal proteins and well balanced generally suits him, in the form of premium kibble or a properly formulated home-prepared ration. The choice should prioritize digestibility and control of energy intake.

Amounts

How much should you give?

The Chow Chow must receive a ration adjusted to its body condition and divided into several meals if needed. The exact quantities depend mainly on actual weight, age, neutering, and activity level.

WeightDaily amountMeals/day
24 - 26 kg390 - 535 g2
26 - 28 kg418 - 573 g2
28 - 30 kg446 - 611 g2

Change

Managing the food transition

Any change in diet must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. A slow transition also makes it easier to observe the dog's tolerance to its new ration.

Hydration

Water: do not overlook it

Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times, particularly in hot weather or after walks. In this heat-sensitive breed, hydration deserves constant attention.

Little extras

Treats, in moderation

Treats should remain occasional and be counted in the daily caloric intake. It is preferable to choose simple, low-fat rewards so as not to encourage weight gain.

Good habits

For a top-notch bowl

  • Split the daily ration into 2 to 3 meals depending on the dog's profile
  • Weigh portions rather than feeding by eye
  • Adjust quantities if activity decreases or during hot weather

Never give

As with other dogs, it is necessary to avoid in particular chocolate, grapes, onion, garlic, xylitol, alcohol, cooked bones and very fatty or very salty foods, as they can cause poisoning, severe digestive disorders or promote obesity.

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