The 60-second version of the Chow Chow: what they're like, what they need, and whether one would suit your home — written for Australian owners.
Chow Chow at a glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed group | Utility/Non-sporting |
| Weight | 20–32 kg |
| Lifespan | 9–12 years |
| Energy | Low to moderate |
| Coat | Dense double coat, rough or smooth |
| Grooming | Brush 2–3 times weekly; heavy seasonal shedding |
| Shedding | High |
| Good with kids | Devoted to family; aloof with strangers — supervision wise |
| Puppy price (AU) | $2,500–$4,500 |
| Insurance (AU) | ~$60–$100/month |
Living with a Chow Chow in Australia
The Chow Chow is one of the world’s oldest breeds, and it shows in their self-possession: they don’t fawn, they don’t fetch on command, and they choose their person with great ceremony. With family they’re devoted and clean; with strangers, politely indifferent. That reserve demands early, extensive socialisation. In Australia, the thick coat makes summer hard — air-conditioning and dawn walks are the routine. Not a breed for first-timers, but deeply rewarding for the right home.
Health watch-outs
The breed’s build drives its health list:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia — ask for scores.
- Entropion (inward-rolling eyelids) — common; often needs surgery.
- Heat sensitivity and skin-fold care — that coat and those wrinkles need summer management.
Budget at a glance
- Puppy price: typically $2,500–$4,500 from a registered breeder — much lower offers are often scams.
- Insurance: around $60–$100/month — see our pet insurance cost guide for what shapes premiums.
- Grooming and cooling are the ongoing costs; insurance at the higher end.
Is a Chow Chow right for you?
Great fit if you… ✅
- Experienced owners wanting a calm, dignified companion
- Quiet households without a stream of visitors
- Owners who respect a dog that sets boundaries
Think twice if… ⚠️
- Not naturally sociable — socialisation is a serious, ongoing project
- Struggles in heat; southern states suit them better
Keep exploring
🍖 Best food: See our dog food picks — chosen for Australian conditions and budgets
🛡️ Insurance: What pet insurance costs in Australia — breed-by-breed premium guidance