Chow Chow vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison | MyDogBreeds

Chow Chow vs Chihuahua - Breed ComparisonChow Chow is originated from China but Chihuahua is originated from Mexico. Chow Chow may grow 28 cm / 12 inches higher than Chihuahua. Chow Chow may weigh 28 kg / 62 pounds more than Chihuahua. Chow Chow may live 7 years less than Chihuahua. Chow Chow may have more litter size than Chihuahua. Chow Chow requires High maintenance. But Chihuahua requires Low maintenance

History

chow chow - historyNorthern China is the original home of the Chow Chow. In that region of China, the breed was known as the Songshi Quan – “the puffy-lion” dog. They have also been known in China as the “Dog of the Tang Empire” or the Tang Quan. The Chow is believed to be an ancient breed that the Foo Dog, or stone dog guardians of Buddhist palaces and temples, is modeled after. It is one of the most ancient of dog breeds that are still around today.

It is believed that they have existed for around 2000 years or perhaps even as far back as 3000 years, starting out in Mongolia and migrating to China. The ancientness of the Chow Chow has been validated through DNA testing. In China all those centuries ago, the Chow Chow was born to be a working dog. They hunted, herded, guarded and pulled carts. They went on quests with the Mongolian armies when China was invaded, as well as when the Mongolians invaded the Middle East and Europe later on.

Today’s Canadian Kennel Club has about 350 Chows registered while the AKC gets 10,000 new registrations every year.

chihuahua - historyQuite a bit of the Chihuahua’s history is shrouded in mystery, and there are different versions about its origins.

While historians speculate, most will agree that the tiny dog hails from Mexico. The UK Kennel Club considers the smooth- and long coat Chihuahuas as 2 distinct breeds.It was in 1904 that the Chihuahua became a registered breed by the American Kennel Club.

Chihuahua is actually the name of a state in Mexico, and it is amazing that Chihuahua specimens were found way back in the 1800's already. Today the Chihuahua is a very popular dog breed in several countries.

Basic Information

Group:
Non sporting dog
Toy dog
Origin:
China
Mexico
Height Male:
43 - 51 cm
16 - 21 inches
15 - 23 cm
5 - 10 inches
Height Female:
41 - 60 cm
16 - 24 inches
15 - 23 cm
5 - 10 inches
Weight Male:
25 - 32 kg
55 - 71 pounds
2 - 4 kg
4 - 9 pounds
Weight Female:
20 - 27 kg
44 - 60 pounds
2 - 4 kg
4 - 9 pounds
Life Span:
11 - 13 Years
12 - 20 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 8
2 - 5
Size:
Medium dog
Toy dog
Other Names:
chowhound, chow, chowdren
None
Colors Available:
cream and blue, Red (light gold to deep red-brown) • Cinnamon (light tan to brown) • Black
Fawn, white and black, tan
Coat:
double thick and coarse
Short- and long haired
Shedding:
Seasonal
Moderate, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Protective, Quiet, Stubborn
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Sweet
Grooming:
High maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Hard
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
No
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

Description

chow chow puppy - descriptionThe Chow really does look like a small lion with a black tongue. The dog is sturdy and square with erect, small ears on a broad skull. They have a very dense double coat. Their eyes are deep set and look like almonds, while they all have that very distinctive purple or black tongue. Their lips are also distinctive with their blue color. The nose is black, but some Chows might have a blue nose. The tail is curly.

These are medium size dogs when it comes to height and weight, but they are powerfully built for their size. Their power is in their compact body holding the energy and strength of a much larger dog. Its hind legs are almost entirely straight, unusual for any dog. They get their lion appearance from the huge ruff that stands behind their heads. Their chest is broad and deep.

chihuahua puppy - descriptionThe small Chihuahua stands at about 15 – 23 cm and he weighs about 1,5 – 4kg.

You’ll notice that he shivers when he is excited or when he is cold or frightened. Some people buy him a jersey to don on cooler days. With this tiny toy dog, you get a short- and a long coated Chihuahua.

This is the smallest dog breed and his coat is available in a number of colors such as fawn, tan, white and black. It is the dog’s round apple-shaped head which is a distinctive feature. He has erect ears and huge fruit-bat type eyes.

Temperament:

The Chihuahua is such an alert, fun-loving, feisty little dog, and though he may appear to be an ideal pet for children, he actually isn’t. He is too dainty and frail, and a child, during play, could accidentally crush him.

It’s a pity though because he just loves being around his human family. He is also a highly strung dog, and given the chance, he’ll nip and even bite during games. It is why socialization and training are considered important for the Chihuahua.

Just like with children, how you raise and treat your Chihuahua will determine how he turns out. He is such a sweet little dog that training and socialization can remove these unwanted characteristics. He is very intelligent and responds well to training.

Characteristics

chow chow dog - characteristicsLoyal and true to their family and those they know; the Chow Chow is a little standoffish with strangers. They are very protective and usually attach themselves to one or two people. They are intelligent but stubborn, which can affect your training with them. They need to respect their people and Chows respect hose who take care of them. They can be aggressive toward dogs of their same sex especially if those dogs are the same breed as well.

They are known to be very clean and many have compared them to cats in that regard. They appear to be dignified and refined. They are usually very quiet but very adaptable dogs.

chihuahua dog - characteristicsSmall and feisty, the Chihuahua’s personality isn’t set in stone, and the tiny dog can be either shy and timid or he can be social, confident and jaunty.

They're always loyal and affectionate to their human owners, but they don’t get on too well with- and are wary of small children who aren’t disciplined and who could hurt them.

With his big eyes and big ears together with his comical antics, they can be a source of entertainment for their human owners. He is easy to train too and even though he is small, he doesn’t think he is, and he is willing to use his big personality to make you a loving, loyal and devoted companion.

Health Problems

chow chow puppies - health problemsAlthough an ancient breed that obviously has survived many centuries of trials, the Cho Chow of today is prone to several different health conditions. These include:

Eyelid Entropion

This condition can require surgery to keep the turning eyelid from injuring the eye ball.

Hip Dysplasia

This can cause lameness and arthritis.

Elbow Dysplasia

This can cause lameness and arthritis.

Stomach Cancer

Ear Infections

Make sure you keep the ears clean and keep an eye on them.

chihuahua puppies - health problemsThe Chihuahua doesn't have any particular health issues, more so when you get him from a reputable breeder. With good care he can reach 20 years of age.

Hypoglycemia:

Known as low blood sugar, hypoglycemia is easily treatable, but if it isn’t caught early it can be fatal.Hypoglycemia makes a dog lethargic and he’ll shiver and could go into a coma. Get him to the vet immediately.

Bloat:

Gastric Dilatation or bloat is when the stomach twists, it becomes enlarged and blood supply is cut off to the stomach. Left untreated, it can be fatal.

Dental Disease:

Chihuahuas are susceptible to dental problems, so you will need to brush his teeth 2 or 3 times a week to prevent tartar build-up, gum disease, loss of teeth and other diseases.

Caring The Pet

chow chow dogs - caringDon’t overfeed a Chow Chow as they are hard workers and big eaters. Feed them at least twice a day.

Health issues

Additional health issues include:

Glaucoma

This eye disease can lead to blindness if not checked and treated.

Juvenile Cataracts

These can be removed from an adolescent puppy.

Lymphoma

Again, the Chow is susceptible to cancer.

Diabetes

Can lead to heart or kidney problems if left untreated.

Hot Spots/Allergies/Melanoma

Keep a close eye on your Chow Chow skin.

Exercise and games

The Chow Chow was developed as working dog, but today’s version is more laid back and doesn’t need excessive exercise. Daily walks will suffice. They live very happily in the city if walked regularly. They are not really a competitive breed outside of obedience and confirmation. They are seldom seen in sports like agility or frisbee.

Diet:

chihuahua dogs - caringAlways make sure to choose a high-quality dog food for your Chihuahua as this will keep him in tip-top health. A healthy Chihuahua can live to be 20 years of age. Speak to a veterinarian for recommendations on the best type of food to feed your tiny pet.

Giving him some home-made food such as brown rice, vegetables and cooked chicken for instance will be a welcome treat for him. Make sure he always has a bowl of fresh, cool water close by.

Exercise:

The Chihuahua may well be the smallest toy sized dog breed, but don’t be mistaken – he has plenty of energy and is constantly prancing around. He is more than capable of living in a small apartment, but even so he needs to be taken outside every now and then for a game or a walk.

Be careful with your small pet though, as too much exercise can lead to elbow- and hip dysplasia.

Grooming:

The Chihuahua is a moderate shedder with Spring being their heavier shedding period. Because of his small size, you won’t be bothered by too much hair. The short haired Chihuahua is easy to maintain and with a rubber brush, you can brush him gently twice a week.

You’ll also need to clip his nails and if you can’t manage this your vet can also help you.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Chow Chow vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Chow Chow vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  3. Chow Chow vs Chinese Shar Pei - Breed Comparison
  4. Chow Chow vs Australian Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  5. Dalmatian vs Chow Chow - Breed Comparison
  6. Keeshond vs Chow Chow - Breed Comparison
  7. Mexican Hairless vs Chow Chow - Breed Comparison
  8. Tibetan Terrier vs Chow Chow - Breed Comparison
  9. Standard Poodle vs Chow Chow - Breed Comparison
  10. Norwegian Lundehund vs Chow Chow - Breed Comparison
  11. Chow Chow vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  12. Chow Chow vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  13. Chow Chow vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  14. Chow Chow vs American Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  15. Chow Chow vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  16. Chow Chow vs Basset Hound - Breed Comparison
  17. Chow Chow vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  18. Chow Chow vs American Cocker Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  19. Chow Chow vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  20. Chow Chow vs Alaskan Husky - Breed Comparison
  21. Chow Chow vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  22. Chow Chow vs Aussie Doodles - Breed Comparison
  23. Chihuahua vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  24. Chihuahua vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  25. Chihuahua vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  26. Chihuahua vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  27. Chihuahua vs Chipoo - Breed Comparison
  28. Chihuahua vs Chiapom - Breed Comparison
  29. Chihuahua vs Bichon Bolognese - Breed Comparison
  30. Chihuahua vs Bugg - Breed Comparison
  31. Morkie vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  32. Havanese vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  33. Chorkie vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  34. Pekingese vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  35. Chiweenie vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  36. Chug vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  37. English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  38. Long Haired Chihuahua vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  39. Russian Toy Terrier vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  40. Franzuskaya Bolonka vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  41. Phalene vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  42. Cockachon vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  43. Shih Tzu vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  44. Silky Terrier vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  45. Snorkie vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  46. Toy Bulldog vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  47. Toy Mi-Ki vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds