Longevity
Life expectancy
The life expectancy of the Chow Chow is generally between 9 and 12 years. A well-adjusted diet, a stable weight, serious veterinary follow-up and good heat management help it to age in good conditions.
Build
A robust breed?
The Chow Chow is considered a rather sturdy dog, especially when it comes from a serious selection. Its robustness does not exempt it from particular attention to the joints, the eyes and weight gain, which are among the most frequent weaknesses of the breed.
Watch points
What to watch for
In the Chow Chow, prevention is essential because several conditions can develop discreetly at the beginning. Weight monitoring, eye checks, orthopedic evaluation, and observing tolerance to exercise and heat are among the useful habits throughout its life.
Hip dysplasia : This joint condition can cause pain, lameness and early wear, hence the importance of weight control and responsible breeding.
Elbow dysplasia : It can appear from a young age and limit locomotor comfort, especially if growth or activity have been poorly managed.
Eye conditions : Entropion, ectropion or glaucoma are among the problems to watch for in this breed, especially in cases of tearing or repeated irritation.
Hypothyroidism : This hormonal condition can promote fatigue, weight gain and coat changes, and is detected through a veterinary check-up.
Heatstroke and obesity : The Chow Chow tolerates heat poorly and tends to be overweight, which requires good management of exertion, meals and temperatures.
Climate
Cold and heat tolerance
The Chow Chow tolerates cold well thanks to its very thick coat, but tolerates high heat poorly. In summer, walks must be shifted to the coolest hours, intense exertion limited, and access to shade as well as water always guaranteed.
Weight
Tendency to gain weight
The Chow Chow has a real predisposition to being overweight if it lacks activity or if portions are too generous. Precise portion control, split meals and regular daily outings are important to protect its joints and its overall comfort.
Daily life
Good habits to keep it healthy
- Regularly monitor weight and body shape
- Limit intense exertion in hot weather
- Consult promptly in case of limping, tearing, or eye discomfort
- Maintain rigorous brushing to aerate the coat and monitor the skin
Vaccination
Chow Chow vaccines: vaccination schedule
Which vaccines for a Chow Chow? Like all cats, the Chow Chow receives essential vaccines from 8 weeks old: Typhus (panleukopenia) and Coryza. The kitten primary vaccination for Chow Chow is given in several injections 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year, even if it lives in an apartment. Depending on its lifestyle (outdoor access, multi-cat household, shows, travel), your veterinarian may complete the protocol with vaccines against Feline leukemia (FeLV), Rabies and Chlamydiosis.
| Vaccine | Primary series | First booster | Then | Who for? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Typhus (panleukopenia)Core Feline panleukopenia (cat parvovirus) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
CoryzaCore Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
Feline leukemia (FeLV)Lifestyle-based Feline leukemia virus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Outdoor cats, cats living in a group or in a cattery |
RabiesLifestyle-based Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, cat shows and most boarding kennels |
ChlamydiosisLifestyle-based Chlamydia felis (contagious conjunctivitis) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Cats living in groups, catteries, show cats |
Adult Chow Chow vaccine boosters are annual for cat flu and leukemia if it goes outdoors; for panleukopenia, a booster every three years is often sufficient after the first booster. Your veterinarian will adjust the schedule to your cat’s lifestyle.
Which boosters for your Chow Chow?
Enter your companion’s age: we list the vaccines to do now and the next boosters.
Adopting well
Adopting a healthy Chow Chow
It is relevant to monitor the hips, elbows, eyes and thyroid function, especially in at-risk lines or in case of clinical signs. A serious breeder must be able to talk about the monitoring of these health points.
This information is provided for guidance only and does not replace a veterinarian’s advice. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, consult a professional.
