Chow Chow vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison

Cao de Fila da Terceira is originated from Portugal but Chow Chow is originated from China. Cao de Fila da Terceira may grow 6 cm / 3 inches higher than Chow Chow. Cao de Fila da Terceira may weigh 48 kg / 106 pounds more than Chow Chow. Both Cao de Fila da Terceira and Chow Chow has almost same life span. Both Cao de Fila da Terceira and Chow Chow has same litter size. Cao de Fila da Terceira requires Low Maintenance. But Chow Chow requires High Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Molosser dogs
Non sporting dog
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Portugal
China
Height Male:
53 - 57 cm
20 - 23 inches
43 - 51 cm
16 - 21 inches
Height Female:
53 - 57 cm
20 - 23 inches
41 - 60 cm
16 - 24 inches
Weight Male:
70 - 80 kg
154 - 177 pounds
25 - 32 kg
55 - 71 pounds
Weight Female:
67 - 80 kg
147 - 177 pounds
20 - 27 kg
44 - 60 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
11 - 13 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 8
4 - 8
Size:
Large
Medium
Other Names:
Rabo Torto
chowhound, chow, chowdren
Colors Available:
Fawn, yellow, brindle, red or black
cream and blue, Red (light gold to deep red-brown) • Cinnamon (light tan to brown) • Black
Coat:
Short and dense
double thick and coarse
Shedding:
Moderate
Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Protective, Quiet, Stubborn
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
High Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Hard
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

History

The Cao de Fila da Terceira Mastiff hails from Portugal and is also known as the Rabo Torto.The dog actually comes from the isle of Terceira in the Azores. The dog descends from mastiffs, bulldogs and local dogs.

It was in the 1960s that there was an attempt to revive the dwindling numbers of the breed. The dog was declared extinct in the 1970s but there were some people in the Azores who wanted to see the breed restored, and it remains a mystery as to if the dog is in fact still available. The breed isn’t recognized by kennel clubs.

chow chowNorthern 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.

Description

The Cao de Fila da Terceira is a medium sized molosser, recognized by his weird tail – short and twirled. In fact, the dog’s other name, Rabo Torto, actually stands for ‘twisted tail’, which is a trademark of this dog and which is thought to come from the mix of bulldog in him.

The dog’s coat is short and smooth and the color is usually fawn or yellow while other colors such as brindle, red or black are also available but less acceptable. You may also find small white markings on the chest and feet.

Standing at about 55cm, the dog is muscular and powerful with a broad head, medium sized floppy ears, wide chest and strong muzzle.

The Cao de Fila da Terceira is a good guard dog and while he doesn’t like strangers, he is a dog who is loving and devoted with his human family. See that he gets socialized and trained and he is capable of establishing a deep relationship with all members of the family, children and other pets included. He relies on his owners to provide him with warmth and communication.

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.

Characteristics

If only dog owners would realize that when it comes to a dog’s characteristics, that while there are some traits inherent in a dog, essentially it’s a case of you reap what you sow with a dog. Treat your dog badly, ignore him and abuse him and you get an aggressive, volatile dog who is a threat to the very humans who created the monster in him.

The Cão de Fila da Terceira will certainly need excellent training and socialization, and when he receives plenty of loving attention from his human family he becomes an amazing, relaxed pet. He becomes patient and sweet-tempered so that you can ultimately call him guardian and friend.

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.

Health Problems

The Cão de Fila da Terceira is a healthy dog breed, but even so, you need to be looking out for some ailments which can threaten the comfort and wellbeing of any dog.

Constipation:

This can often be brought about by the wrong diet. When you see your pet battling to clear out the bowels, it can often be rectified by altering your dog’s diet. Speak to your vet if it continues. Your vet may suggest adding some form of nutritious oil to your pet’s diet.

Heart Problems:

Dogs can also suffer from heart disease, especially when there is an obstruction to the flow of blood to the brain which can cause your pet to collapse. Veterinary attention must be sought without delay.

Kidney Failure:

Frequent passing of water can be indicative of a kidney problem. Veterinary advice will be needed.

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.

Caring The Pet

Companionship is important for the Cao de Fila da Terceira, and if you don’t have another dog in the home, as a pack animal, your dog will rely on you for being an active part of his life. A dog that is well treated becomes thoroughly loyal to his owner.

Diet:

A balanced diet is important for health and for a shiny coat. If you’re unsure of how to feed your Terceira, speak to your veterinarian first. Your vet will know that protein for instance, is essential for your dog. The vet will also speak to you about how to feed a puppy, an adult dog, a pregnant female dog and also feeding your senior dog. Your vet will also explain the hazards of overfeeding and how raw meat also needs to be included in your pet’s diet.

Fresh, cool water is your pet’s life-blood and should be available to your dog night and day. Every dog can benefit too from taking a daily supplement rich in omega-3 fatty acid.

Grooming:

The grooming of your pet will depend on the breed. The Cão de Fila da Terceira has a short coat so he will be easy to maintain. Brush him twice a week to remove loose hairs.

Areas which also need checking daily are the eyes to see that there is no discharge. It is also important to inspect the ears as there should be no build-up of wax inside the ear. Toenails also need attention and should be clipped if they grow long from the pet not walking on hard surfaces.

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.

Comparison with other breeds

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  28. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Cao de Fila da Terceira vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison