First kept by fierce Mongolian tribes in China as a hunting and guard dog, the Chow was also used for their meat and fur. Others believe the Chow is the ancestor of the modern Spitz group of dogs as well as the Akita and Shar-Pei. How the Chow got his blue-black tongue is also a mystery. Sailors returning from the east brought them back in the cargo hold of the great trade ships. Like a nickname, the term stuck to these dogs.
Chows make exceptional house pets.
They're one of the easiest breeds to housebreak. Chows do, however, have a very different personality than other dogs. Although their soft fur is ripe for hugging, they don't always enjoy being fussed over by children or strangers. For people who want a cuddly lap dog that will instantly love all their friends, the Chow is likely to be a disappointment. The Chow Chow is very intelligent but not always easy to train.