Do Chow Chows Shed? How to Reduce Their Shedding?

Chow Chow is a breed of dog that is known for its distinctive blue-black tongue. They are considered one of the oldest breeds in the world and have been used as working dogs in many ways. Today, they are often kept as pets and can make great companions. 

One thing to note about Chow Chows is that they can be quite independent and stubborn at times. They also need a lot of exercise. However, if you're up for the challenge and can give your Chow Chow plenty of love and attention, then they will definitely return the favor with lots of loyalty and affection. 

Now when it comes to Chow Chow shedding, it’s something that all dog enthusiasts should be aware of before they decide to add one of these furry friends to their family. Shedding is a natural process that all dogs go through, and while it can be a bit messy for the Chow Chow breed, it's nothing to worry about. 

What Are Chow Chow Coats Like? 

There is no denying that Chow Chow coats are one of the most distinguishing features of this breed. They can be either smooth or rough, but both varieties have a dense, wooly undercoat and a long outer coat. The hair on the head and legs is usually shorter than on the body. 

Chow Chows come in a variety of colors, including black, blue, red, cinnamon, and fawn. However, all Chow Chows have one common trait – their trademark black tongue! Some people believe that this unique characteristic is what gives Chow Chows their "lucky" charm. 

Many people feel that Chow Chow coats are exceptionally beautiful and unique. They often remark on how soft they feel to the touch! In fact, many owners say that they enjoy petting their dog's coat as much as they enjoy playing with their dog's ears or tail. 

Do Chow Chow Shed? How Much Do They Shed? 

These are frequent questions that dog enthusiasts have when considering adding a Chow Chow to their family. The answer, unfortunately, is that all dogs shed to some degree. However, the amount of shedding that a particular dog does varies based on several factors, including breed and individual genetics. Some dogs may only shed lightly during certain times of the year, while others may lose hair constantly. 

Chow Chows are moderate to heavy shedders and will lose hair throughout the year, although they tend to shed more heavily in the spring and fall. If you are someone who hates dealing with dog hair all over your house, then a Chow Chow may not be right for you; however, if you are willing to vacuum or sweep regularly and keep up with regular grooming (including brushing their coat), then this breed can be a fantastic addition to your family. 

Are Chow Chows Hypoallergenic? 

There is much debate surrounding whether Chow Chows are hypoallergenic. The reality is, they’re not. While some people may not have a reaction to them, others will still experience symptoms like sneezing and itchy eyes when around these dogs. 

The reason for this is that Chow Chows produce a lot of dander, which is the main cause of allergies in pets. They also tend to shed more than other breeds, so their hair can become airborne and aggravate allergy sufferers even more. 

If you’re someone who suffers from pet allergies, it might be best to avoid Chow Chows altogether. There are plenty of other great dog breeds out there that don’t produce as much dander and shed less hair, so you can still enjoy the companionship of a furry friend without having to suffer through allergy symptoms. 

Factors That Trigger Chow Chows' Shedding 

Many factors can trigger Chow Chow so much shedding. Some of the most common causes are genetics, environment, and health.  

• Genetics: Genetics is one of the biggest contributors to excessive shedding in Chow Chows. If your dog's parents or grandparents tended to shed excessively, your dog will too. The best way to figure out if your dog will shed heavily is by looking at his/her coat type. Chow Chows have a thick double coat that consists of an outer layer of long guard hairs and an inner layer of soft downy hair. This coat type is designed to protect dogs from extreme weather conditions, but it also makes them more prone to shedding than other breeds.  

• Environment: Environment can also play a role in how much your Chow sheds. Dogs who live in warm climates tend to shed more than those who live in colder climates because they don't need as much insulation against the heat. Similarly, dogs who live indoors tend to shed more than those who spend most of their time outdoors because they are not exposed to as many environmental allergens and irritants (e.g., pollen, and dust mites).  

• Health: Health problems can also cause excessive shedding in dogs. Certain diseases (e.g. hypothyroidism) and infections (e.g., mange) can lead to significant hair loss which then results in increased Shedding. If you suspect that your dog's excessive Shedding might be due to something other than genetics or environment, it is important to take him/her to see a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment. 

Dogs can also shed more due to stress, poor nutrition, or health problems. If your dog is shedding excessively, it's important to figure out the root cause and take steps to address it. 

How To Deal With Chow Chows' Shedding?

There's no getting around it: Chow Chows shed. A lot. But there are ways to deal with the shedding that don't involve giving up your beloved furry friend. 

1. Environmental factors like changes in temperature or humidity can cause a dog's coat to become dry and brittle, which leads to excessive shedding. In the summertime when temperatures rise and humidity drops, your dog may lose more hair than usual. And in the wintertime when temperatures drop and humidity rises, your dog may experience an increase in dander (dead skin cells). To help minimize your dog's exposure to these environmental triggers: 
   • Keep them inside during extreme weather conditions  
   • Avoid running fans directly on them – circulate air instead  
   • Use a humidifier if you live in a dry climate  
   • Give them plenty of fresh water year-round  
   • Brush their coat regularly (at least once per week) to remove dead hair and distribute natural oils evenly across their fur 
2. One of the better ways to deal with Chow Chow shedding is to groom your dog regularly. This will help remove any excess hair and keep it from building up on your furniture and floors. Make sure you use a good quality brush or comb and be sure to brush in the direction of the hair growth. 
3. Another way to reduce Shedding is by feeding your dog a high-quality diet that includes plenty of omega-3 fatty acids, which help keep fur healthy and shiny. You can also supplement their diet with fish oil capsules, which have the same effect.  
4. And finally, make sure you give your dog plenty of exercise; a tired dog is less likely to shed all over the house! 

Final Thoughts 

There's no denying that Chow Chows shed a lot. But despite their furry coats, these dogs are great companions and make wonderful pets. Chow Chows are loyal, intelligent, and protective of their families. They're also known for being independent and stubborn at times, which can make them a challenge to train. But with patience and perseverance, you'll be rewarded with a devoted friend for life. 

Despite their high-maintenance coat, Chow Chows are generally healthy dogs and don't require much in the way of grooming or exercise beyond regular walks. So if you're looking for a furry friend who will keep you warm on winter nights without all the hairballs, then consider adopting a Chow Chow!