The Chow-Chow (sometimes simply Chow:7–8) is a dog breed originally from northern China, where it is referred to as Songshi-Quan (Pinyin: sōng-shī quǎn), which translates to 'puffy-lion dog'. Chow-Chow are not excessively active, meaning that they can be housed in an apartment. However, a Chow-Chow living in an apartment will need daily exercise to prevent restlessness and boredom. Upon realizing that exercise is a daily occurrence, Chow-Chow will tend to be more assertive with owners in anticipation of such activities. Chow breed will heavily shed their fur in the seasons of spring and autumn, which requires more grooming attention than other seasons. Both create a thick woolly layer, as it gets closer to the skin. They should be brushed four times a week; however shedding seasons may require daily grooming. Also, a spray conditioner can help avoiding breakage and tearing to the thick coat of hair.