Chow Chows have a teddy bear appearance and other features that give them a distinctive look. They have been with us for over 2000 years, dating back to ancient China, and have remained fiercely loyal and protective of their companions.
They have had many roles and are widely regarded as a utility breed. Below we discuss the rich history of your Chow Chow and their contributions to dog breeds.
Table of Contents
Why Do So Many Dogs Have Chow Chow In Them?
Chow Chows are one of the oldest breeds in the world and have been cross-bred for many years. They have been around since the Ting and Qin dynasties and gained global recognition when Queen Victoria adopted them. They have been crossbred with various other breeds ever since the 18th century.
How Can You Tell If Your Dog Has Chow?
Check their muzzle, tongue, and tail. These are some of the most vital indicators of Chow in your dog. If their muzzle is short and has shades of blue and black in their tongue, along with a curly tail, chances are your dog may have Chow genes in them.
How Old Are Chow Chow Dog Breeds?
Chow Chows originated from China, dating back to 206 B.C. Their DNA shows that their close relatives include Shiba Inu, shar-pei, and Akita. The emperor used them as temple guard dogs and for hunting 2000 years ago, and today they are members of the non-sporting group.
What Were Chows Originally Used For?
Chow Chows were bred to be helping dogs to their owners. Their overall purpose was to ensure the family was well guarded and that they helped their owner to hunt the game by pinning the animal down until reinforcement came. They acquired more of a domestic role when the Tang Dynasty emperor adopted 5000.
What Is The Common Ancestor Of All Dog Breeds?
Chow Chows are the common ancestor of all dog breeds. They have been around for over 2000 years and became a global sensation when the Ting dynasty emperor and Queen Victoria began adopting them. Their closest relatives are Sharpei, Shiba Inu, and Akitas.
Is A Chow Chow Part Wolf?
Researchers believe Chow Chows may have a historical connection to wolves; however, there is no clear evidence. Chow Chows were once thought to have originated from wolves; however, this claim is disputed as many have accepted the Chow Chow’s Asian origin.
5 Chow Chow Historical Facts
They’re One Of The Oldest Breeds
Chow Chows are originally from China and were bred over 2000 years ago, making them one of the oldest breeds. Researchers believe Chow Chows may have evolved from wolves.
Their Names Are Not Of Chinese Origin
Chow Chow’s name does not originate from China. In China, they are known as Songshi Quan and got their name from sea merchants in the 18th century that mislabeled every discovered item from the East in that manner because they were lazy to correctly label things for shipping.
They Were Used As Working Dogs In China
Chow Chows may be cute in appearance but are powerful breeds. They were trained to work under challenging conditions and help hunt and guard livestock from predators. Pulling sleds in the thick ice was another task they regularly performed.
They Have Straight-Back Legs
Chow Chows have straight hind legs that do not curve like most breeds. This gives them a distinctive “stilted gait” when they are walking.
They Have An Unusual Blue-Black Tongue
Chow Chows have unique and distinctive black-blue tongues. As puppies, their tongues start pink but eventually get their dark shade as they age. The Shar-Peis are also known to have this tongue color.
Conclusion
Chow Chows have been around for 2000 years and have stayed loyal to their human owners. They were bred to be multifunctional dogs to help their owners with tasks however, in recent times, they began acquiring a more domestic role.
They are an old breed and thus have been used to cross-bred for many years to create new breeds such as The Shar-Peis and Shiba Inu. They are a loving breed that will remain with us for many years to come.
