Chow Chows tend to be naturally aloof and independent dogs. They do bond with their humans and are affectionate with them, but they also like to do their own thing. Because they have a protective instinct, they are naturally suspicious of strangers. As such, socialization and training are essential.

If the other parent breed has similar traits, then you can likely expect the same from a Chow Chow Mix. However, the other parent breed will likely introduce other potential traits in the mix, so you do want to ask the breeder about them.

You can also meet the mother dog in-person to see what type of temperament she has and what behavior she is modeling for her puppies. Once you get a puppy home, it’s up to you to continue to socialize a puppy and train them so they grow into a well-mannered, well-balanced dog.

The Chow Chow is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They enjoy their space, but can adapt to apartment living. They don’t mind some alone time as long as they don’t get bored. They are more sensitive to heat and prefer cooler climates because of their thick coat.

If they are in a home with a yard, it should be securely fenced as these dogs can become territorial. It’s important to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed as they will likely introduce some traits that could affect the adaptability of a Chow Chow Mix.

Mixed-breed dogs can sometimes be healthier than their purebred counterparts. However, there is no guarantee. A mixed-breed dog has a chance to inherit conditions common to one, both, or neither of the parent breeds. From the Chow side, potential health conditions to be aware of in a Chow Chow Mix include hip dysplasia, allergies, elbow dysplasia, and thyroid issues.

Reputable breeders will be screening their dogs to avoid passing issues on to puppies. So, you should be talking to the breeder about both of the parent breeds anyway. Make sure you ask about their health and genetic history. You can also ask about any tests that have been done and to see those results or health clearances.

Although a Chow Chow is a highly intelligent dog breed, they are also known for their independent nature, which can make them extremely stubborn. Training a Chow requires a lot of patience, skill, and consistency. As such, they do not tend to be a good fit for novice owners, and obedience classes are recommended.

The other parent breed could introduce some traits that would make a Chow Chow Mix easier to train. However, you can’t rely on it as they could still take after their Chow parent. So, you’ll want to be prepared to enroll in training classes or to work with a professional trainer if you are going to add a Chow Chow Mix to your family.

A Chow Chow Mix can inherit a coat that is similar to one fo their parent breeds or a coat that is a combination of both of them. Should they inherit the Chow coat, it will be very thick and very fluffy and need a lot of maintenance.

Chow Chows shed heavily as the seasons change and will need daily brushing during this time to prevent tangles and mats. This also helps keep loose fur contained to a brush and will help a Chow feel more comfortable. Outside of seasonal shedding, brushing a couple of times a week is sufficient. Bathing is recommended on a monthly basis.

Regardless of coat type and grooming level, you will also need to care for your Chow Chow Mix’s nails, ears, and teeth. Cutting your dog’s nails once or twice a month keeps them from growing too long. Weekly ear checks and carefully cleaning your dog’s ears as needed can help prevent ear infections. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is ideal dental care for dogs and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life.

Although a Chow Chow has a moderate activity level, they can sometimes be lazy, which is why they are prone to weight gain. Generally, daily walks plus some moderate playtime or activity is sufficient for this dog breed.

The other parent breed in the mix could affect the activity level of a Chow Chow Mix, so you want to make sure you ask the breeder about them. This will give you a potential range of exercise requirements to prepare for in a Chow Chow Mix.

A fully-grown Chow Chow usually stands 17-20 inches tall and weighs 45-70 pounds. The other parent breed will have an effect on this, especially if they are the mother.

So, it’s important to ask the breeder about them. Although it is not a guarantee, you can also meet the mother dog in-person to get an idea of what size to expect in a Chow Chow Mix.

A Chow Chow generally lives for 10-15 years. The other parent breed may affect this slightly, but you should be able to expect a similar life span in a Chow Chow Mix.