In 1941, the standard was revised and the reference to the smooth-coat was deleted. The provision for the smooth coat continued to exist throughout the world except for North America, and through the years they were bred on a limited basis. In 1984 at the National Chow Specialty, a dedicated group of chow enthusiasts joined to form The Society for the Preservation of the Smooth Chow Chow. This Society is made up of breeders who have consistently shown their devotion to the chow breed by their skill as breeders and exhibitors over many years. The Society has representation in most areas of the U.S. and Canada.
Associate members are also in England and Holland.
In 1986 the AKC standard was clarified and the smooth-coat references returned to the standard. The first smooth champion was crowned in 1987. It is strongly recommended that lesser quality chows be sold as companions with spay and neuter contracts or the limited AKC registration papers. Breeding agreements will be made only on Chows of such quality as to warrant inclusion in an acceptable breeding program. Breeders selling breeding stock will encourage the buyer to join the Society and other chow clubs and acquaint them with the codes of ethics of each.