From its fluffy teddy bear-like face to its lion-mane coat, the Chow Chow is undeniably one of the most unique-looking breeds in all of dogdom. Many people may be familiar with them as lapdogs or just for their interesting looks, but there’s so much more to this breed than meets the eye!
Behind their seemingly cuddly exterior lies a strong working history that dates back centuries, when they were hardworking farm dogs throughout China and Mongolia.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating story behind these incredible animals and discover what special characteristics have helped make them such beloved companions today. So if you’re a pet lover/fur parent who loves chow chows and is eager to learn about where they come from, keep reading!
What is the history of the Chow Chow dog?
The Chow Chow is an ancient breed of dog that has been around for centuries. Originating in Northern China, the first documented Chow Chows appeared around 200 BCE and were used for various tasks such as hunting, herding, and guarding.
They went on to become popular pets among the Chinese nobility during the Tang Dynasty, resulting in them being bred widely. Eventually, Chow Chows were brought from Asia to England and many other parts of the world by traders and missionaries.
Since then their popularity has increased, with these fluffy-featured canines being recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1903. Although their roles have shifted from simple working dogs to beloved family companions, it is clear that this magnificent breed continues to endure throughout history.
What was the original purpose of the Chow Chow?
The Chow Chow is a magnificent animal that has been around for over 2000 years. It was originally believed by Chinese nobility to be one of their nine sacred royal guard dog breeds and it played an important part in Asian society guarding temples and palaces.
During the 1800s, when trade with the West began, some Chows were sent abroad as ornamental gifts and prized sampling of Chinese culture. Over the course of time, its roles shifted from guard dogs to companion dogs and it continues to enjoy a healthy popularity among today’s pet owners.
Is Chow Chow a working dog?
The Chow Chow is a dignified, yet strong and intelligent breed of dog. While they can certainly work, it’s true that the Chow Chow is bred more for companion and guard dog roles.
As a purebred, the temperament of the Chow Chow is one of loyalty and can be quite alert; this, coupled with its muscular build, makes it an ideal candidate for small guarding tasks.
However, due to intelligence and capacity to learn, these dogs could theoretically be trained to do various working jobs such as herding livestock or tracking scents. Ultimately though they are best utilized in their unique roles as loyal companions and guardians.
Are Chow Chows good with livestock?
Chow Chows are often misunderstood as aggressive guard dogs, however, that opinion may be far from the truth. Chow Chows tend to make excellent companion animals, especially with their unique history of working alongside livestock. These independent and loyal canines form strong bonds with their owners and tend to be protective of them and their space.
However, this same protection is also extended to livestock that they may come in contact with. Not only do they display a gentle nature when around livestock, but they can also be helpful watchdogs who will alert their owners if any intruders threaten the safety of the property or animals housed there.
Overall, due to their fiercely loyal nature, Chow Chows make a great addition to any farm looking for an affable example of the breed who will happily work alongside its inhabitants.
Overall
The Chow Chow is a wonderful breed that has been around since ancient times. They have been working on farms since the beginning, finding food and helping out with herding duties. Along the way, they have earned a reputation as an independent thinker and natural worker who is loyal to their family.
While their origins may be unknown, it’s clear that the Chow Chow was around for much longer than some of its present-day counterparts. It’s also clear that there are more things to them than what meets the eye.
Their loyalty and hard-working attitude make them not only iconic but loved by many throughout centuries of service and companionship. Chow Chows may be independent thinkers, but you can always count on them to be by your side when it matters most.
