The Chow Chow, or Chow, is considered to be one of the oldest recognizable dog breeds. DNA analysis indicates that the Chow is one of the first primitive breeds to evolve from the wolf, and is thought to have originated in the arid steppes of northern Mongolia about 4,000 years ago. These dogs were later introduced to China where they are still referred to as “Songshi Quan,” which literally translates as the “puffy-lion dog.”
The Chow Chow is a large, stocky canine with two very distinctive features: blue-black lips and tongue and almost straight hind legs, which makes its walk appear somewhat stiff and stilted. This breed also has a thick, curly tail that lies close to its back.
