One hypothesis for the source of the Chow s name is that it comes from the Chinese word chaou. This Chinese word translates to the English equivalent of a dog of great strength. Chows became fashionable in the U.S. roughly around the same time that they were gaining respect in England. Chinese Chum also won best of breed at the Westminster Dog Show in 1906. The Chow Chow is a compact, powerful breed whose typical appearance is one of leonine self-sufficiency.
Chows have thick, rough coats.
Chow Chows may be red, cream, brown, or black in color. Chow Chows should have large heads. The Chow Chow has deep-set eyes, usually brown in color. A lion-like ruff accentuates the Chow Chow s short muzzle. The Chow Chow s nose is broad and black in color.