Are you considering adding a German Shepherd Chow mix (Chow Shepherd) to your family? If so, you’ll want to read this essential guide first!
In this post, we’ll provide everything you need to know about Chow Shepherds, including their temperament, exercise needs, and coat care.
We’ll also give you tips on how to find the perfect Chow Shepherd for your family. So, whether you’re just starting your research or are ready to bring home your new pup, keep reading for all the information you need!
German Shepherd Chow mix – Background
The German Shepherd Chow mix is a relatively new hybrid dog. As the name suggests, this breed is created by crossing a German Shepherd with a Chow.
German Shepherds are originally from Germany, where they were bred as working dogs. They were used for herding sheep and protecting property.
On the other hand, Chows originate from China, where they were bred as companion dogs. Chows are known for their independent nature and aloofness around strangers.
Today, the German Shepherd Chow mix is a popular choice for families looking for a loyal and loving companion. These dogs typically inherit the best traits of both parents, making them intelligent, alert, and devoted to their families.
Appearance of the Chow Shepherd
The German Shepherd Chow mix typically has a thick fluffy coat that can be either straight or wavy. The most common colors are black and tan, but some dogs may also have brown or white markings.
This mixed breed is a medium to large dog, with males averaging between 45 to 90 lbs. Regardless of size, these dogs are strong and sturdy, with a muscular build that belies their gentle nature.
If you’re looking for a loyal companion with an impressive appearance, the German Shepherd Chow mix is a perfect choice.
Temperament of the Chow Shepherd
This designer breed is one of the most popular mixed breeds, thanks to their loyal and loving temperament. These dogs are incredibly intelligent, which means they learn commands quickly and are easy to train.
They’re family-protective and good guard dogs. However, because of their Chow heritage, they can be a bit reserved around strangers and may even be prone to aggression if not properly socialized.
German Shepherd Chow mixes do best in homes with older children who can respect their space, and they need plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. With the right care and training, a German Shepherd Chow mix can make a wonderful companion for years to come.
Training Needs of the Chow Shepherd
German Shepherd Chow mixes are intelligent dogs that learn commands quickly. However, because of their Chow heritage, they can be a bit stubborn and independent. It’s important to start training early and be consistent with your commands.
German Shepherd Chow mixes need firm but gentle handling, as they can become difficult if they feel threatened. Socialization is also important for this breed, as they can be reserved around strangers.
Early socialization will help your German Shepherd Chow mix feel more comfortable around new people and situations.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when training your German Shepherd Chow mix:
-Start training early
-Be consistent with commands
-Use firm but gentle handling
-Socialize your dog early on
-Be patient and persistent with training
Are Chow Shepherds Aggressive?
German Shepherd Chow mixes can be a bit reserved around strangers, but they are not typically aggressive. However, because of their Chow heritage, they can be prone to aggression if not properly socialized.
It’s important to start socialization early and expose them to as many different people and situations as possible.
This will help them to become more comfortable and confident around others. Chow Shepherds can make great family pets, but it’s important to be aware of their potential for aggression and take steps to prevent it.
Some scenarios may cause your German Shepherd Chow to become aggressive. These include if they feel threatened or if they are protecting something that they see as valuable, such as their food or toys.
If you think your dog is getting ready to be aggressive, it’s important to step in and stop the behavior before it escalates.
There are a few things you can do to help prevent aggression in your German Shepherd Chow:
1. Socialize them early and often.
2. Be consistent with training and obedience commands.
3. Avoid situations that may trigger their aggression.
4. If they do become aggressive, remain calm and do not punish them. Instead, try to redirect their attention to something else.
Exercise Needs of the Chow Shepherd
If you’re thinking of adding a German Shepherd Chow mix to your family, you’ll need to be prepared for an active dog. These dogs are a mix of two working breeds, and they inherit the energy and drive of both parents.
German Shepherd Chow mixes need plenty of exercise, both mental and physical. A good daily walk will help to burn off some of their excess energy, but they’ll also benefit from an activity that engages their minds, such as agility training or nose work.
Without sufficient exercise, these dogs can become bored and destructive. They may start chewing on furniture or dig holes in the yard.
Do Chow Shepherds Need Mental Stimulation?
The German Shepherd Chow mix is considered a loyal, intelligent, and protective dog that is also independent and aloof.
Because of their intelligence from their German Shepherd parent, this mixed breed needs mental stimulation to avoid boredom. They are quick learners and excel at obedience training. They also enjoy working on puzzles and playing interactive games.
In addition to providing mental stimulation, these activities help to build the bond between owner and dog. German Shepherd Chow mixes make excellent companion dogs for active people who can provide them with the mental and physical exercise they need.
Grooming Needs of the Chow Shepherd
German Shepherd Chow mixes have a thick, double coat that can be either short or long. The longer the coat, the more maintenance it will require.
It’s important to brush your dog regularly to prevent mats and tangles from forming. You’ll also need to pay attention to the hair around your dog’s eyes and ears, as it can easily become matted.
If you’re not up for the task of regular brushing, you may want to consider keeping your German Shepherd Chow mix’s coat trimmed short. This will reduce the amount of shedding and make grooming a bit easier.
Regardless of coat length, all German Shepherd Chow mixes will need to be bathed on occasion. Be sure to use a dog shampoo that is specifically designed for double-coated breeds.
With a little time and effort, you can keep your German Shepherd Chow mix looking and feeling his best.
Do Chow Shepherds have Health Conditions?
Like all mixed breeds, they can inherit health conditions from either parent breed. Some of the conditions that have been reported in German Shepherd Chow mixes include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, allergies, and cataracts.
Given that they are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, it’s important to keep an eye on their activity level and weight to minimize these risks. German Shepherd Chow mixes are also known for being allergic to grass, so it’s important to be mindful of this when taking them outdoors.
While there are health issues associated with this breed mix, many German Shepherd Chow mixes live long and healthy lives with proper care and attention.
What Should Chow Shepherds Eat?
These dogs are known for their loyalty and protective nature, as well as their striking appearance. But what should you feed your Chow Shepherd?
Chow Shepherds should have a diet that is mostly protein and fat, with a fairly low amount of carbohydrates.
A Chow Shepherd mixed puppy should have a diet consisting of 22% protein, while the adult should have slightly less protein at around 18% of total food intake. These standards are in accordance with the American Feed Control Officials.
This is because Chow Shepherds are prone to obesity, and a high-carbohydrate diet can actually make this problem worse.
What should you include in your Chow Shepherd’s diet?
A good commercial dog food should provide all the nutrients your dog needs, however whole meats such as beef, chicken, and fish are good sources of nutrients.
You may also want to supplement their diet with a range of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Just be sure to avoid foods that are high in fat or sugar, as they can also contribute to weight gain. With a little bit of care, you can ensure that your Chow Shepherd lives a long and healthy life.
Are Chow Shepherds Dog Friendly?
German Shepherds are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, and Chow Chows are also known for their striking appearance.
So, it’s no surprise that German Shepherd Chow mixes are becoming increasingly popular.
But what are German Shepherd Chow mixes like? Are they good with other dogs? German Shepherd Chow mixes can be dog friendly, but it really depends on the individual dog.
Some German Shepherd Chow mixes are very friendly and enjoy playing with other dogs, while others can be more aloof. It’s important to socialize your German Shepherd Chow mix from a young age to help them become comfortable around other dogs.
If you’re not sure whether your German Shepherd Chow mix is dog friendly, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and keep them away from other dogs.
German Shepherd Chow mixes are a popular breed, but they’re not for everyone.
Do Chow Shepherds Drool?
It’s important to know whether or not a dog is likely to drool before bringing one into your home.
While Chow Shepherds may not be as drooly as some other breeds, they are certainly capable of producing a fair amount of saliva. However, the degree to which they drool will vary depending on individual dogs.
Some Chow Shepherds may only drool when they are excited or nervous, while others may be more prone to drooling throughout the day.
Ultimately, it is impossible to predict exactly how much a German Shepherd Chow mix will drool.
However, if you are considering adopting one of these dogs as a family pet, it is important to be prepared for the possibility of some extra drool around the house!
Barking Levels of the Chow Shepherd
German Shepherds are known for being loyal and protective dogs, and Chow Chows are also notorious for their loud barking. So, it’s no surprise that German Shepherd Chow mixes can be quite vocal.
However, the amount of barking that a German Shepherd Chow mix does will vary depending on the individual dog. Some German Shepherd Chow mixes may bark very little, while others may bark excessively.
If you’re considering adopting a German Shepherd Chow mix, it’s important to be prepared for the possibility of some extra noise in your home.
Are Chow Shepherds Adaptable to Weather?
Chow Shepherds are a versatile breed of dog, able to adapt to various climates and weather conditions. They are particularly well-suited to colder climates, thanks to their thick coats of fur.
However, they can also do well in warmer climates, having access to shade and water.
Ultimately, it is up to the owner to provide their Chow Shepherd with the proper care and environment to ensure that they are comfortable and happy, no matter what the weather is like outside.
The typical temperatures Chow Shepherds are comfortable with are above freezing and below 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
They can handle hotter weather as long as they have access to plenty of water and shade, but they will start to feel uncomfortable once the temperature rises above 85 degrees.
In colder weather, Chow Shepherds do best when they have a snug, warm place to sleep indoors at night, but during the day they are more than happy to romp around in the snow.
Life Expectancy of the Chow Shepherd
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a dog is its life expectancy. German Shepherds are a popular breed of dog with a relatively long lifespan.
On average, German Shepherds live between 11 and 13 years.
However, some individual German Shepherds have been known to live even longer. Chow Chows, on the other hand, have a shorter lifespan. On average, Chow Chows live between eight and twelve years.
However, some individual Chow Chows have been known to live as long as 15 years. German Shepherd Chow mixes inherit traits from both of their parent breeds, so they tend to have a life expectancy that falls somewhere in the middle.
German Shepherd Chow mixes typically live between 10 and 15 years.
Chow Shepherd – AKC Recognition
The German Shepherd Chow mix is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). However, both German Shepherds and Chow Chows are AKC-recognized breeds.
German Shepherds have been recognized by the AKC since 1908, and Chow Chows have been recognized since 1903. The hybrid mix of German Shepherd and Chow breeds is not currently eligible for AKC registration, but this could change in the future.
German Shepherd Chow mixes are a popular breed, and they may eventually be recognized by the AKC.
How much do Chow Shepherds Cost?
German Shepherds are a popular breed of dog, and Chow Chows are also fairly popular. As a result, German Shepherd Chow mixes are in high demand. German Shepherd Chow mixes typically cost between $250 and $750.
However, some German Shepherd Chow mixes may cost more or less depending on their individual markings and coat colors.
If you’re looking for a German Shepherd Chow mix, be prepared to pay a fairly high price tag.
Final Thoughts
The German Shepherd Chow mix provides the best of two powerful dog breeds and makes a great pet for anyone looking for an energetic and loyal companion.
As with any crossbreed, be prepared to deal with some variability in personality and character traits, but if you’re up for the challenge, the Chow Shepherd is sure to reward you with years of love and loyalty.
