Breed Health
Chow Chow Health Issues
A generally sturdy ancient breed, though its distinctive facial structure and dense coat bring a few specific health considerations.
Common Hereditary Conditions
Entropion
An inward rolling of the eyelid common in the breed, causing irritation from eyelashes rubbing the eye; corrected with a minor surgical procedure.
Hip & Elbow Dysplasia
A joint malformation affecting mobility over time; screening breeding parents lowers the odds in puppies.
Skin Fold Dermatitis
Dense fur and facial folds can trap moisture, leading to skin infections without regular cleaning and drying.
Hypothyroidism
An underactive thyroid appears somewhat more often in this breed, causing weight gain and lethargy; a blood panel diagnoses it.
Preventive Care
Regular eye checks help catch entropion early, before chronic irritation causes damage. Keeping the coat and facial folds clean and dry, especially in humid weather, reduces skin infection risk. Hip and elbow screening before breeding, along with periodic thyroid panels as the dog ages, round out a solid preventive routine.
Did You Know?
The Chow Chow’s thick double coat can make it especially prone to overheating in warm climates — owners in hot regions should watch closely for signs of heat stress.
Chow Chow Gifts
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