Exercising a Chow Chow Dog Breed: How Much and What Type of Exercise?
The Chow Chow is a medium-sized dog breed that originated in China. They were originally bred to be working dogs, pulling sleds and herding. As a result, Chow Chows have a decent amount of energy and need daily exercise to stay fit and healthy. Here is a guide on how much and what types of exercise Chow Chows need.
How Much Exercise Does a Chow Chow Need?
Chow Chows are not an extremely high energy breed, but they do require a moderate amount of exercise each day. The typical recommendations for Chow Chows are:
- 30-60 minutes per day of exercise for adult Chow Chows
- 20-40 minutes per day for senior Chow Chows
- 15-20 minutes 1-2 times per day for Chow Chow puppies
This can be broken up into multiple short walks/play sessions or one longer walk. Puppies and seniors may need more frequent but shorter exercise periods.
Types of Exercise for Chow Chows
Chow Chows enjoy and benefit from different types of exercise:
Walking
- Daily leash walks are essential for Chow Chows. Aim for at least 20-30 minutes per walk if possible.
- Walking provides physical exercise and mental stimulation. Vary your route when possible to keep it interesting.
Play Time
- Play time in a securely fenced yard provides lots of exercise. Chow Chows love to run and play.
- Games of fetch are great to get them moving. Just be sure to use balls/toys that are Chow Chow sized, not too small.
- Tug of war and "keep away" games are other good active play options.
Hiking
- Chow Chows that are fit and healthy can be good hiking companions. Start with shorter hikes and work up distance gradually as they build endurance.
- Be sure to bring plenty of water and breaks for your Chow Chow on longer hikes. their fur coat makes them prone to overheating.
Swimming
- Many Chow Chows enjoy swimming and cooling off in water. Introduce them slowly and use a dog life jacket if needed.
- Swimming is a good low-impact exercise option, but monitor your Chow Chow closely whenever in water.
Training Sessions
- Short, positive training sessions each day provide mental stimulation. Practice basic commands or fun tricks.
- Use their daily kibble during training for added motivation. Keep sessions under 10 minutes for puppies, 15 minutes for adults.
Dog Sports
- Some Chow Chows excel at dog sports like agility, rally obedience, or weight pulling.
- Starting training early and find a sport that fits your individual Chow Chow's abilities and personality.
- Competitions and trials provide exercise combined with mental stimulation.
Exercise Precautions for Chow Chows
When exercising your Chow Chow, keep these precautions in mind:
- Monitor for overheating. Avoid strenuous exercise in hot, humid weather due to their thick coats. Provide water and shade breaks.
- Supervise off leash time. Chow Chows have a very independent nature and may ignore commands to come or stay close. Only allow off leash exercise in fully fenced areas.
- Use a harness for leash walks. Chow Chows can be prone to tracheal collapse. A harness prevents pressure on their neck and throat while walking.
- Limit exercise for puppies under 18 months as their joints are still developing. Avoid running on hard surfaces or jumping until fully grown.
- Introduce exercise gradually, especially for older or previously inactive Chow Chows. Build up duration and intensity over time.
- Avoid strenuous exercise 1 hour before and after eating to prevent bloat.
Common Exercise Problems with Chow Chows
Here are some common exercise-related issues that may occur with Chow Chows:
Problem: Chow Chow pants, seems overheated, or stops exercising
Solution: Stop exercise immediately and find shade and water. Chow Chows are prone to heat stroke.
Solution: Stop exercise immediately and find shade and water. Chow Chows are prone to heat stroke.
Problem: Chow Chow seems stiff, limping, or sore after exercise
Solution: Rest and contact your vet. Could be a sign of joint pain or injury.
Solution: Rest and contact your vet. Could be a sign of joint pain or injury.
Problem: Chow Chow seems tired, lethargic, or has trouble breathing during/after exercise
Solution: Stop exercise and contact your vet. Could indicate a heart or lung problem.
Solution: Stop exercise and contact your vet. Could indicate a heart or lung problem.
Problem: Chow Chow pulls on leash, won't walk nicely
Solution: Use a front-clip harness and practice loose leash training techniques. Chow Chows can be stubborn, so persistence is key.
Solution: Use a front-clip harness and practice loose leash training techniques. Chow Chows can be stubborn, so persistence is key.
Problem: Chow Chow ignores commands and runs off during off-leash exercise
Solution: Practice recall commands extensively before off leash time. Keep in fenced area. Some Chow Chows have high prey drive and will run after small animals.
Solution: Practice recall commands extensively before off leash time. Keep in fenced area. Some Chow Chows have high prey drive and will run after small animals.
Problem: Chow Chow shows no interest in exercise or play
Solution: Try different types of exercise and toys to see what motivates them. Consult your vet to rule out health issues making them disinterested.
Solution: Try different types of exercise and toys to see what motivates them. Consult your vet to rule out health issues making them disinterested.
Putting it All Together
The energetic and sometimes stubborn Chow Chow breed needs plenty of exercise but also some precautions taken to keep their exercise safe and healthy. Aim for 30-60 minutes of exercise per day through activities like walking, play time, hiking, or swimming. Monitoring for overheating, using a harness, and introducing exercise gradually are key when exercising this breed. With an appropriate amount and types of exercise, your Chow Chow will stay fit, happy, and better behaved.