Chow Chows are a beloved breed known for their fluffy coats and loyal nature, but their lifespan is a topic of concern for many owners.
On average, a Chow Chow's lifespan ranges from 12 to 15 years, with some living up to 17 years with proper care.
Their lifespan is influenced by factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and health conditions, which can affect their longevity.
Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet can help prevent or manage health issues that may impact a Chow Chow's lifespan.
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Nutrition and Diet
Chow Chows require a balanced diet that follows a consistent routine to maintain a healthy weight. Be careful not to overfeed them, as they are prone to obesity.
Historically, Chow Chows have been bred on a largely vegetarian diet, which means they need a low protein, high calcium diet based around grains and vegetables. Meat should still be included, but it should be lean and low in fat – chicken and turkey are good options.
Suggestion: Red Merle Chow Chow
A good-quality dry food with protein as the main ingredient is a good option for Chow Chows. This type of food provides the necessary nutrients for their growth and development.
Chow Chows need to drink plenty of fresh water, especially during hot summer months, to avoid overheating and dehydration. Make sure they have an easily accessible supply of water at all times.
To maintain the health of their thick, furry coats, Chow Chows need healthy, omega fatty acids from fish in their diet. This will help keep their coats shiny and healthy.
Here are some key diet tips for Chow Chows:
- Feed smaller meals, three to four times a day, to Chow Chow puppies.
- Reduce the number of meals as they become adults, but larger breeds like Chow Chows may still need puppy food.
- A good-quality dry food with protein as the main ingredient is a good option for Chow Chows.
Chow Chow Health
Chow Chows are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. They may live 8-12 years, but some conditions can affect their quality of life.
Hip and elbow dysplasia are hereditary issues that can cause arthritis and mobility problems. Responsible breeders will provide health clearances from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA).
Chow Chows may also be at risk for eye problems, such as eyelid entropion, which can cause irritation and discomfort. If you notice your Chow rubbing at its eyes or skin, it's essential to take your pet to a veterinarian right away.
Here are some common health issues that Chow Chows may face:
- Entropion
- Hip Dysplasia
Additionally, they may be predisposed to gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV or bloat), which can be deadly even with extensive treatment.
Health Risks
Chow Chows are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. They may live 8-12 years, though some may be more susceptible to conditions like eyelid entropion, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and allergies.
Chow Chows are more likely to develop eye problems, such as eyelid entropion, which can cause the eyelid to roll inward and irritate the eyeball. If you notice your chow chow rubbing at his eyes or skin, he should see a veterinarian right away.
Hip and elbow dysplasia are hereditary conditions, so a responsible breeder will provide health clearances from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). This can help identify potential problems early on.
Chow Chows are also at risk for heat stroke due to their thick, fluffy coat and short snout. Keep them in the air conditioning during the summer months, and make sure they're always well-brushed so air can circulate to their skin.
Some common health issues in Chow Chows include:
- Entropion
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Stenotic Nares
- Patellar Luxation
- Distichiasis
- Gastric Torsion
- Cataract
- Elongated Palate
- Persistent Pupillary Membrane
It's essential to monitor your chow chow's eating habits to reduce the risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV or bloat), a potentially deadly condition.
Chow
The Chow breed is a unique and wonderful companion, but like any dog, they do require some special care to stay healthy.
Their lifespan is relatively long, ranging from 8 to 12 years, which is a good thing, as it gives you plenty of time to bond with your furry friend.
Chows are generally calm dogs, which makes them a great fit for apartment living, as they don't require a lot of exercise or stimulation to stay happy.
However, they do need regular exercise to stay healthy, and a medium level of exercise is recommended.
If you're considering bringing a Chow into your family, you'll want to make sure you're prepared for their high prey drive, which means they may not be the best fit for homes with small pets.
Here are some key characteristics to keep in mind when it comes to Chow health:
Their drool amount is medium, which is something to consider if you're not a fan of slobber.
Breed and General Information
The Chow Chow is a Chinese dog known for its unique characteristics, including a stilted gait due to its straight back legs and a distinctive scowl.
Their average lifespan is 8 to 12 years, although some Chow Chows have been known to live up to 15 years.
Chow Chows have a distinctive coat of fur, including a unique colored tongue and a mane of fur.
Rescuing a Chow Chow dog can cost between $150 to $600, which often includes vaccinations and microchipping.
Buying a Chow Chow puppy from a reputable breeder can cost up to $6,000, with the most expensive being those from a champion bloodline.
Health and Wellness
Chow chows are generally healthy dogs, but like any breed, they can be prone to certain health issues. They typically live 8-12 years, but may be more susceptible to conditions such as eyelid entropion, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and allergies.
If you notice your chow chow rubbing at his eyes or skin, it's essential to take him to a veterinarian right away, as eyelid entropion can cause irritation. Responsible breeders will provide health clearances from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) for hip and elbow dysplasia.
Chows may also be at risk for gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV or bloat), which can occur in dogs with deep chests. Monitoring their eating habits can help reduce the risk of this condition.
To keep your chow chow cool in the summer, keep them in air conditioning and ensure they're well-brushed so air can circulate to their skin. This will help prevent heat stroke, which is a risk due to their thick, fluffy coat and short snout.
Here are some common health issues that can affect chow chows:
- Entropion
- Hip Dysplasia
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Gastric Torsion (bloat)
- Heat Stroke
These conditions can be serious, so it's crucial to work with a responsible breeder and keep an eye out for any signs of illness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the oldest Chow Chow?
The oldest recorded Chow Chow lived to be 21 years old, as verified in 1935. This remarkable age sets a benchmark for the breed's longevity.
Sources
- Chow Chow Dog Breed Information (akc.org)
- Chow Chow: Temperament, Lifespan, Grooming, Training (petplan.co.uk)
- Chow Chows: Grooming, Lifespan, and Those Tongues! (aspcapetinsurance.com)
- Chow Chow Dog Breed Information & Characteristics (dailypaws.com)
- Chow Chows (wagwalking.com)
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