Say hello to the mini Chow Chow ! A (almost) pocket sized fluff ball that you will fall in love with!
What is all the fluff about the mini Chow Chow ?
Well, the mini Chow is a relatively new type of dog. It is not actually a new dog breed , but it is usually considered as a miniature version of the purebred Chow Chow.
Now, this all sounds very cute and dandy, but there’s a lot to say about the whole breeding program of the mini Chow Chow dog .
This teeny tiny and extremely fluffy pooch can be a product of breeding runts from the Chow Chow litter. But, the mini Chow Chow may also be a funky combination of a standard Chow Chow and smaller dog breeds.
We’re here to tell you all there is about the mini Chow Chow puppy !
Are There Mini Chow Chows?
Mini Chow Chows are often described as crossbred spitz -type dogs and miniature versions of the standard Chow Chow dogs . So yes, there are mini Chow Chows .
Spitz -type dog breed is a category in which mini Chow Chows resemble the most are Akita and Shiba Inu, Shar-Pei, and Samoyed.
Due to their black and blue tongues, the mini Chow Chows are often referred to as black tongue/blue tongue mini dogs.
Their standard parent — the purebred Chow Chow originates from China, so many people are guessing that the mini Chow Chow also comes from China.
But, the story behind their development might concern dog lovers.
Their small size is developed by unusual (and often unethical) breeding practices.
Where Do Mini Chow Chows Come From?
Photo from: @koreateacuppuppies
I can tell you for sure that the standard Chow Chow originates from China, but the development of the mini Chow Chow dog breed may have begun elsewhere. But, like most miniature dog breeds , mini Chow Chows are developed by crossing big and small dogs .
Mini Chow Chows are developed by either breeding two runts, crossbreeding, or genetically causing the miniature size due to the dwarfism gene.
Breeding Runts
You know what runt of the litter means?
Runt of the litter equals the smallest and weakest Chow Chow puppy of all of its siblings . So, breeding two Chow Chow runts from the litter will most likely give birth to a mini Chow Chow dog .
The term mini Chow Chow means cute and all, but there is nothing cute about breeding runts from the litter, or even worse — inbreeding runts .
There are so many unreputable and unethical breeders out there that turn to this kind of breeding practice.
Usually, the tiniest teacup dog breeds that develop from breeding two runts of the litter end up with birth and congenital health problems. That too can happen to the mini Chow Chow dog .
Crossbreeding: Chow Chow X Smaller Breed
We mentioned crossbreeding as a means to develop a mini Chow Chow . It’s time to tell you more about it!
The mini Chow Chow is sometimes produced by adding a smaller breed to the mix. Which means that the mini Chow Chow will not be a purebred dog. Actually, most dog lovers and experts believe that there is no such thing as a purebred mini Chow Chow .
Due to the fact that there are two different dogs in the mix (standard Chow Chow and a smaller breed ), there is no telling what kind of personality this pup might acquire.
For example, the Chow Chow Pomeranian mix is an adorable and interesting designer dog. But we cannot be sure how exactly its looks are going to turn out or its personality.
Another thing about cross breeding a purebred standard Chow Chow with a smaller breed is that it will be difficult to tell how big this mixed puppy will get.
That being said, breeders can’t be 100% sure that this method will be successful in developing a truly small dog like the mini Chow Chow.
Introducing The Gene For Dwarfism
Firstly, let’s explain what dwarfism is in dogs A. K. A. Achondroplasia is. To put it simply, it is a bone deformity in which a dog’s bones don’t grow normally. We can see this in many dog breeds like the Corgi or the Dachshund.
Although it looks really cute and we love our short-legged pooches, dogs with dwarfism may suffer from more developmental health problems than any other dog breed .
Signs of health problems related to their short size include swollen joints, obesity, spine problems, and troubles walking.
Some breeders will exploit the dwarfism gene to produce the mini Chow Chow breed of dog , but this method also brings up health concerns.
Mini Chow Chow Appearance
Photo from: @minichow.ru
Mini Chow Chow ’s compact size combined with its unique personality will make you want to cuddle with it the whole day!
Let’s dive into the world of mini Chow Chow’s wonderful looks!
Size
Both male and female standard Chow Chows are medium-sized dogs. They grow about 17 to 20 inches tall. Both genders of the standard Chow Chow dog breed can weigh anywhere from 45 to 70 pounds when full grown.
Their miniature version — the mini Chow Chow is going to be lighter and shorter by at least 50%!
With females being smaller than males, the mini Chow Chow reaches between 25 and 28 pounds on a weighing scale. Not only are they very light, but mini Chow Chows grow very short — only 12 to 16 inches in height!
Keep in mind that the size of a mini Chow Chow highly depends on its heritage, breeding practice, and health state.
For more information about the weight, size, and development of the standard Chow Chow, you can check out the Chow Chow weight chart.
Body Structure
According to the official American Kennel Club ( AKC ) Chow Chow breed standards , the standard Chow Chow is sturdy and muscular, with heavy bones and a compact build.
So, could the mini Chow Chow inherit the same body structure?
Well, taking into consideration that the mini Chow Chow is not recognized by the AKC, there are no breed standards for this mini dog. But, who needs ‘em? We can describe its body structure by ourselves!
The mini Chow Chow inherits a muscular build from its standard parent, but it may also inherit other bodily features of the smaller breed parent. So, the mini Chow Chow will not inherit heavy bones and a blocky build like the standard Chow.
What Are The Colors Of Mini Chow Chows?
Mini Chow Chows are already the cutest and fluffiest micro dogs around. But, their soft coats can’t stop fascinating us!
A variety of Chow Chow coat colors are passed on to the mini Chow Chow puppy . However, any coat color of a smaller breed of dog that is in the mix can also be passed onto the mini Chow Chow offspring.
But, let’s stick to the main mini Chow Chow colors inherited from purebred parents — cinnamon, fawn, white, black, blue, red, cream, and merle.
However, if a mini Chow Chow has another smaller breed for a parent, like the Pug or miniature Poodle , then it can inherit any Pug or Poodle colors.
Now that we are talking about colors, we may also mention mini Chow Chow’s eye colors that can range from dark brown, hazel, and even blue! Their deep-set puppy eyes are adorable and you can’t say no to them!
Although the mini Chow Chow is not a blue eyed dog breed , it may inherit this trait from either of its parents.
Mini Chow Chow Coat Type
Photo from: @sinsed
Mini Chow Chow’s ruff and ears are where the richest and softest fur is concentrated. It is so dense and fluffy, that it makes it look like a mini lion!
Other than that, mini Chow Chow ’s double coat makes this pooch safe from all weather conditions. They thrive when it’s a bit colder outside , but mini Chow Chows will do well in warmer climates (only if they are used to it from a young age ).
When it comes to length, the coat of a mini Chow Chow is medium long, but it may look shorter because it is fluffy and dense.
Also, the mini Chow Chow coat type greatly depends on other dog breeds that are present in the mix. Of course it will be different in length and density if a standard Chow Chow is mixed with a Chihuahua !
Do Mini Chow Chows Shed?
Oh, Mini Chow Chows shed a lot ! In fact, the standard Chow Chows are on the top of the list of heavy shedders!
When we take a look at other heavy shedding dog breeds , mini Chow Chows shed just as much as German Shepherds . And, let’s not forget to mention Siberian Huskies , the shedding professionals!
Besides shedding all year round, we can expect the mini Chow Chow to shed more during seasonal changes. Fall and spring is when mini Chow Chows are going to lose lots of fur in order to switch to cooler or warmer coats. In other words, this mini dog is a seasonal shedder that requires regular grooming.
The amount of shedding varies, depending on the mini Chow Chow health, nutrition, and coat care.
It will also vary depending on the other parent breed. Mini Chow Chows that derive from both purebred Chow Chow runts are more likely to be heavy shedders. However, Chow Chow mixes produce moderate shedders.
Are Mini Chow Chows Hypoallergenic?
No, mini Chow Chows are not hypoallergenic.
They could be, if a purebred Chow Chow is mixed with a purebred miniature Poodle . But the odds are still 50:50.
This is because the standard Chow Chow isn’t considered as a hypoallergenic breed. Therefore, its coat type is transferred to the mini Chow Chow offspring, making it also a non-hypoallergenic dog breed .
Other than heavy shedding, the mini Chow Chow produces protein that is found in hair, urine, drool, and so on. And most dog-allergic people sneeze from this protein!
What Is The Temperament Of Mini Chow Chows?
Standard Chow Chows are frequently kept as pets. While I believe this says a lot about the Chow Chow breed of dog , I must note that these dogs are very dependent. So will mini Chow Chows be.
Just like their standard parents, mini Chow Chows are not particularly fond of strangers and other pets. This doesn’t mean that the mini Chow Chow is a grumpy and aggressive dog breed .
Original Chow Chows were bred as guard dogs . So, that’s why their miniature versions inherited the feistiness! Mini Chow Chows become more protective of their owners and friends as a result of this behavior.
Another thing that mini Chow Chows inherited from purebred Chows is the cat-like personality. In other words, mini Chow Chows have unusual mood swings in which they’re feeling super happy one minute, and the next minute they turn into evil little pups!
Is Mini Chow Chow A Good Family Dog?
Photo from: @minichow.ru
Okay, so many owners that I have worked with say that the Chow Chow is not the friendliest of dog breeds . Well, we believe that the mini Chow Chow is just as bubbly and pawesome as the Golden Retriever and the Bulldog ! But, only if properly socialized.
Taking into consideration their cat-like personality, mini Chow Chows don’t like to be touched as much as other dog breeds. They also choose their person and stick to him/her.
This means that mini Chow Chows won’t have much fun with small children. And this particular trait may not make the mini Chow Chow a good dog for families with toddlers and young kids.
Mini Chow Chows love to be dominant, it is in their veins! This is why it’s important to introduce them to other canine friends and pets.
So, make sure to do a lot of socialization during the mini Chow Chow ’s puppyhood.
Is Mini Chow Chow A Lazy Dog?
This is one of the most common questions I get asked because paw lovers mistake Chow Chow’s calm temper for laziness.
Well, this Chinese dog is far from being lazy. The mini Chow Chow may appear laid-back and calm, but it has lots of energy that’s waiting to be unleashed!
Mini Chow Chows are by no means lazy dogs because they were primarily bred as guard and hunting dogs. So, there is no way that they can be lazy!
However, the minituarization of the Chow Chow dog breed has led to mini Chow Chows becoming lap dogs that like to sit around and do nothing. But, in all honesty, it all depends on the mini Chow Chow ’s personality — some like to be active, while some like to lay in the sun.
Is Mini Chow Chow A Good Guard Dog?
Take a step back, big guard dogs , because the mini Chow Chow is here!
The mini Chow Chow may be aloof at times, but this micro pooch is very cautious around strangers. This makes it a great guard dog that will undoubtedly notify all family members if something’s up.
The mini Chow Chow can easily secure its place in the small guard dog breeds list!
Chow Chows are very good at alarming their family members about everything they find it is threatening.
The majority of purebred Chow Chows I met have proven to be quiet, but feisty. With unsocialized Chow Chows, the risk of being bitten is quite high.
Mini Chow Chows may bark to let their family members know when someone is at the door, could be the mailman! Or they like to bark whenever someone enters or leaves the house — no matter if its a stranger or their beloved owner. Sometimes it may seem that the mini Chow Chow is barking at nothing , but there is certainly something it has noticed.
Mini Chow Chow Health Problems
Photo from: @appa_minichow
Remember when we said that Chow Chow runts of the litter do not make healthy dogs?
Although the standard Chow Chow doesn’t suffer from many health issues , the mini version of it may inherit some diseases and conditions.
Most health problems found in the mini Chow Chow are the results of its miniature size. However, there are some health issues that are directly passed from purebred parents onto the mini Chow Chow puppy
Entropion
Due to their deep-set of the cutest puppy eyes, the mini Chow Chows may be highly prone to entropion.
Entropion in dogs is a health issue concerning their eyes. What happens is that the mini Chow Chow ’s eyelid rolls inside and rubs the eye. This causes lots of irritation, inflammation, and pain.
Mini Chow Chows with entropion should have a surgery done in order to revert their eyelids. Mind you, mini Chows are in danger of becoming blind if they develop entropion !
Elbow And Hip Dysplasia
This disease is a classic for all dog breeds — big and small. And surprise, surprise! The mini Chow Chow may also develop this health issue . So, what’s up?
Well, elbow and hip dysplasia is when the elbow or hip joint detaches from the joint socket, or develops an abnormal growth that makes it difficult for two bones in the joint to glide.
This causes lots of pain to a mini Chow Chow and some may even have trouble walking and moving around.
Hypothyroidism
Canine hypothyroidism is present in all dog breeds but it seems that it prevails more within the smaller breeds of dogs .
Hypothryoidism means that the thyroid gland is not working properly, affecting the basal metabolism of a mini Chow Chow . The thyroid is unable to produce the normal amount of hormones that regulate the mini Chow Chow ’s metabolism.
Therefore, hypothroidism in the mini Chow Chow may lead to developing obesity and alopecia.
Cruciate ligament disease
This is another health issue that affects mostly smaller dog breeds , but it is also present in large dogs. So, the cruicate ligament disease in dogs is when a knee ligament ruptures, which causes the dog’s knee to become wobbly and weak.
It also causes lots of pain to your pup. Mini Chow Chows with curciate ligament disease may acquire signs like limping, lethargy, and even apettite loss.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
Mini Chow Chows are compact and a bit sturdy which means that they may have a lot of weight to carry on their short legs. This can cause intervertebral discs (the ones between your vertebrae) to lose their vitality and degenerate.
Remember the story about the gene that causes dwarfism ?
Well, the mini Chow Chow surely acquires this gene which puts it at high risk of developing a very painful health issue which is called the Intervertebral Disc Disease.
Since a long back and small legs have been favored in the Dachshund breed, IVDD is actually so widespread in this breed that one in every four dogs is affected.
Mini Chow Chow Lifespan
Photo from: @bruno_teddydog
Normally, 8 to 12 years is an average lifespan for miniature Chow Chows . However, their lifespan may be different depending on how they were raised and how much care has been put into maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Taking into consideration that the mini Chow Chow is not among the healthiest breeds, its average lifespan is typcially under 10 years.
What’s there to blame? Well, runts of the litter and the dwarfism gene are the main culprits why mini Chow Chows are not long-living dogs.
Chows that have undergone a miniaturization process by mating with small dog breeds may inherit the longevity of their other parent.
For example, the Chow Chow German Shepherd mix may live longer than the mini Chow Chow . It won’t be as miniature as the mini Chow Chow , but it will surely be healthier!
Taking Care Of A Mini Chow Chow
Due to their double coats, mini Chow Chows require ongoing maintenance. But, taking care of a mini Chow Chow is not only about brushing its fluffy coat to keep it as smooth and low-shedding as possible.
So, you just adopted the mini Chow Chow or you are thinking about adopting it, but you are not sure how to take care of it?
Well, when it comes to this small dog , you ought to put in a lot of time into care and maintenance. And, it’s not as difficult as it may seem!
Feeding Needs
In order to grow into a healthy mini dog, the mini Chow Chow needs proper dog food!
Are you wondering “What is the best food for mini Chow Chow ?”
Well, the dog food that’s specially made for the smallest pooches of course! For example, when their mini Chow Chows switch to regular dog food , owners often use dog food for Maltese and other similar dog breeds .
Keeping a mini Chow Chow in its perfect shape is best done by feeding it a nutritional diet.
When you’re choosing dog food for your mini Chow Chow , make sure to avoid the bad dog food labels in the market . Not only does it contain useless ingredients, but low-quality dog food can affect your mini Chow Chow ’s growth and health.
If you are one of those paw lovers that loves to cook and experiment when making dog food , you may want to master your skills for boiling chicken for dogs!
Training And Exercise Needs
Photo from: @teddydog_guusje
Mini Chow Chows require lots of exercise and mental stimulation to keep things going. This small dog will stretch its short legs during a 20 minute walk that should be two times per day.
Due to its small size, the mini Chow Chow will do well when surrounded by dog toys in an apartment. But, it still needs lots of walkies!
The miniature Chow Chow is that type of a puppy that must be properly trained to avoid messy situations.
Training a Chow Chow is not as easy as training a Belgian Malinois!
Although they are a devoted and outgoing breed, mini Chow Chows tend to be more on the stubborn and independent side. They simply refuse to learn.
Additionally, mini Chow Chows often behave disobediently with people they haven’t developed any feelings for.
The best way to prevent such behavior is to socialize and train the mini Chow Chow from a young age. Continue doing so throughout its lifetime!
Grooming
Mini Chow Chows are what the fluff is all about! And with great fluff comes great reponsibility —- for the mini Chow Chow owner, that is.
The mini Chow needs lots of brushing and detangling of its dense double coat . They should be brushed daily, or at least three times per week.
Brushing the mini Chow Chow is beneficial to you and the dog! When you’re regularly brushing your fluffy little Chow Chow, you are getting rid of loose and shedded hairs that are either on the surface or within its undercoat .
By brushing your mini Chow Chow you are also getting rid of any dirt plus you’re able to see if there are any fleas or ticks on its fluffy coat.
If you can’t find a suitable brush, you may want to try out brushes for Siberian Huskies , because they have a very similar coat.
When it comes to bathing, the mini Chow Chow doesn’t need frequent baths. Once in two or three months will do the trick — unless your mini Chow Chow rubbed its face onto something !
Regular Vet Visits
Due to the fact that mini Chow Chows are prone to many congenital and developmental health issues, it’s very important to include regular vet visits into your routine.
With yearly checkups, you can monitor your mini Chow Chow ‘s health and address any issues before they worsen.
If you and your vet recognize early signs or underlying health issues that mini Chow Chows are prone to, this can be a good way to control the illness on time.
Regular vet visits will result in earlier discovery of a disease, extending the healthy years of your mini companion.
How Much Is A Mini Chow Chow?
Photo from: @brunoandrudolf
The cost of a mini Chow Chow depends on lots of things, starting from the standard Chow Chow cost , and going towards the breeding program, breeder ’s competence, your location, and the age of the puppy.
Mini Chow Chows can be found for $1,000 to $2,000 per puppy. However, their price can go as high as $4500 which is more expensive than the standard Chow Chow.
In addition to the upfront cost of purchasing a tiny Chow Chow, you should budget for recurring upkeep expenses.
Even though mini Chow Chows are most likely produced unethically, the popularity of this small breed demands that breeders produce more of them. Which is totally wrong.
To Sum It Up
Fun, loyal, independent, sometimes stubborn, yet so affectionate and adorable — the mini Chow Chow is a versatile doggie that will put a smile to your face.
However, the morality behind the mini Chow Chow’s breeding program is something that should be on your mind, especially if you want to purchase this small dog.
Most mini Chow Chows you stumble upon are most likely not born nor raised in an ethical way. That being said, most mini Chow Chows acquire lots of health issues throughout their lives which can be very heart-breaking.
If you decide to purchase this small dog , make sure to provide it with everything that is necessary to keep it as healthy and fit as possible!
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