Chow chows have lately become a popular dog breed, and their fluffy coats, lion's-mane ruff, and dark blue-black tongue make them easy to spot.
The chow chow is one of the earliest dog breeds, having been employed as a hunting dog during the Han period (202 B.C.).
The breed is sometimes described as cat-like, with traits like independence and aloofness.
This solemn and dignified dog requires a nutritious, well-balanced diet, and finding the best food for your chow chow will ensure that she lives a long and happy life.
Nutritional for Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is a large, strong dog with a thick coat.
When feeding a Chow Chow puppy, keep in mind their size.
They're usually classified as a medium-sized dog, but new research on growth rates and weights suggests they should be classified as a giant breed (just not a very tall one).
Chow Chows were one of the first domesticated breeds.
They are descended from China's indigenous dog.
They are loyal, yet can be headstrong and distrustful of strangers, like other ancient breeds.
Chow Chow dogs differ from other breeds in terms of genetics, which has an impact on how they digest food.
These dogs have evolved to eat dairy, beans and peas, and vegetables after being fed only limited amounts of meat in the past.
An adult Chow Chow consumes approximately 1000-1300 calories per day, which is roughly three cups of dry dog food.
Keep in mind that each dog's demands will vary according on its size, food, and degree of exercise.
Keep track of your dog's weight and condition, and change what you feed them as necessary.
However, where should you begin with a Cow Chow puppy?
Chow-Chow Puppy Feeding Chart
Changing Puppy Food Manufacturers
Make sure you figure out what your puppy has been eating and buy enough of it to last at least two to three weeks.
If you decide to switch diets, do it gradually by incorporating more of the new diet into the old at each meal.
Diets that are similar in nutrition or appearance can be substituted in as little as a week; diets that differ in nutrition or appearance can take up to three weeks.
If you notice indicators of an upset stomach, slow down or stop the transfer.
Chow Chows are a huge, stocky breed that requires a diet high in calcium and low in protein.
If you search for “big breed” puppy food, you'll discover plenty of options.
Large & Giant Breed Puppy Lamb Holistic Select Natural Dry Dog Food
- Chicken, Salmon, and Rice Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Large Breed Puppy Food
- Wolf Cub – Solid Gold
All breeds of puppies require a diet that contains at least 22% crude protein.
Protein levels as high as 50% in canned foods or grain-free kibbles are too much for a Chow Chow's omnivorous gut, which thrives on a diet rich in grains and vegetables.
As a result, you should select a dog food formulated for large breed puppies with a protein content of 25-30%.
Chows Diet
Your veterinarian will recommend feeding a high-quality commercial wet or dry dog food to a healthy chow chow.
Look for a food with a single source of protein as the first ingredient on the label.
Low-grain diets are beneficial to many chow chows.
Calculate how much food your dog needs depending on her weight and divide it into two meals, as directed on the bag.
Feeding her table scraps or people food, especially those with a high fat content, is not a good idea.
Make sure treats don't account for more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake.
Reduce the size of her meals to accommodate for the extra food if you're using a lot of goodies in training.
Obesity is a prevalent problem in chow chows, and it can reduce their quality of life and put them at risk for additional health problems.
Dogs' raw diets and homecooked meals are becoming more popular, but the American Kennel Club points out that there is no evidence that these options are superior.
Because chow chows are prone to medical issues that make commercial food difficult to feed, visit your veterinarian to decide the best alternative for your pet.
How Does A Chow Chow Puppy's Feeding Change As He Grows Older?
Chow Chows have a short muzzle and a deep chest. As they get older, an elevated food and water dish may be beneficial.
Bloat and twisting of the intestines (“gastric dilatation volvulus”) are known to be more common in Chow Chows.
If you see this, give your dog smaller, more frequent meals or use a bowl meant to slow down feeding.
As adults, Chow Chows have a tendency to get overweight.
Keep an eye on the amount of food they consume and make adjustments if they begin to gain weight.
If this becomes an issue, use “Healthy weight” dog food mixes.
Adult Chow Chows enjoy the following foods:
- “Hund-en-Flocken” and “Wolf King” in solid gold
- Salmon and rice, Purina Pro Plan
What Should You Feed Your Chow Chow Puppy?
Grain-free foods are fashionable these days, but your dog requires the opposite.
Look for foods that contain:
- Major ingredients include grains such as rice and vegetables.
- Around 25-30% crude protein by dry weight
- A portion of the protein is derived from non-meat sources
- Formulations based on beef should be avoided.
Kibble for a Chow Chow Puppy
Dried kibble contains fewer animal proteins, which can be a concern for Chow Chows.
If your dog likes a softer food, soak dry kibble in warm water or combine it with mashed potatoes or scrambled eggs.
Using Wet Food to Feed a Puppy
Some puppies enjoy eating wet food more than dry food.
Canned meals, on the other hand, contain substantially more than 30% protein (as a percentage of “dry matter”).
Finding the percentage of the food that is protein, dividing it by the percentage of the food that is “dry matter,” and multiplying this amount by 100 is how you compute dry matter protein.
On the food label or on the manufacturer's website, this information should be disclosed.
Wet food can be a part of a Chow Chow puppy's diet as long as the overall protein composition of their diet is monitored.
Feeding a Puppy with Raw Food
The majority of raw puppy diets consist of meat, usually red meat.
Using this diet with a Chow Chow will necessitate some adjustments.
Red meat is less acceptable than whole poultry birds.
Providing a Homemade Diet for a Puppy
Many owners prefer to feed their puppies a homemade diet because it allows them to control exactly what ingredients they feed them.
Many owners blend diet kinds, providing a cooked meal and a commercial diet meal each day, for example.
By combining foods with various ingredients, you may be able to include higher protein items (such as canned food) in little amounts.
Request assistance from your veterinarian in developing a homemade feeding plan for your dog.
Your dog's diet and nutrition are essential
The majority of Chow Chows can eat the same foods as other dogs.
Protein
Protein is vital in the diet of all dogs. Protein is the most vital nutrient for every dog's diet.
For maintenance, the food you give your dog must comprise at least 18 percent protein.
However, this does not suggest that you should offer your pet a high-protein diet.
Chow Chow Dogs, according to the debate, require a lot of protein to keep their coat healthy.
Fat
A Chow Chow Dog Breed requires a minimum of 5% fat in his daily food, as well as a minimum of 8% growth for growth and reproduction.
Fat in meals makes it taste better, causing him to consume more and more.
However, excessive fat in your dog can quickly lead to weight gain, which is a common problem in Chows due to their lack of activity.
The fat content of the finest dog diets for chow chows is usually between 12 and 16 percent.
Carbohydrates
Your dog's food may not have a list of carbohydrates.
That isn't to say the dish isn't high in carbohydrates.
They provide your dog with energy, fiber, and a variety of other nutrients.
Your fluffy Chow Chow will not be able to live solely on Fat and Protein.
Carbohydrates aid your Chow's brain and other tissues by providing sugar and starches, while other fibers from carbs are beneficial to the digestive tract.
Fiber
Fiber is another important nutrient that your dog needs in his diet.
To slow digestion, soluble fiber collects water and converts it into a gel during digestion.
Insoluble fiber, on the other hand, adds volume to your pet's feces and speeds up the process.
Probiotics and prebiotics
Probiotics are live organisms that are introduced to your dog's diet in order for them to grow in their digestive system.
Once they've matured, they can aid with digestion.
Prebiotics are a type of dietary fiber that aids in the growth of beneficial bacteria in your dog's stomach.
Minerals And Vitamins
In the dog food industry, vitamins and minerals are referred to as ‘condiments.'
Vitamins and minerals are now found in almost all dog foods.
Because the temperature during the cooking process can strip away many nutrients, vitamins and minerals are usually added afterward.
What Do Chow Chows Enjoy Eating?
Your four-legged pal, Chow Chow, like eggs, rice, and cottage cheese.
Rice helps them keep their beautiful coat as well as their digestive system in good shape.
It's fine to feed your Chow Chow once a day once they've been around for at least a year. Many people, on the other hand, continue to feed two times.
Feeding times should be constant, and it is recommended that those who opt to feed them once a day do so in the evening.
When selecting the proper meal for your furry friend, keep in mind that they should not be fed a lot of meat because this may cause skin problems.
Some of the Best Chow Chow Food Products
- Size Health Nutrition Medium Dog Food For Medium-Sized Dogs by Royal Canin. (Outstanding Overall)
- Purina Pro Plan Savor is a delicious cat food. (For the most cost-effective option)
- Large Breed Hill's Ideal Balance (Most Effective For Overweight/Weight Loss)
- Medium Sensitive Digestion Dry Dog Food from Royal Canin. (Excellent For Puppies)
- Hill's Science Adult Sensitive Stomach And Skin Dog Food is formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin. (Ideal for Senior Dogs)
Chow Chow Supplements That Work
The debate over whether or not dogs require supplements is still going on.
Many veterinarians agree that supplements should be included in a dog's diet, and chow chows are no exception.
The important supplements for your dogs are listed below.
Multi-Vitamin
Thousands of chemical reactions are triggered by vitamins.
They use enzymes and minerals to ensure that digestion is normal and that the hair and coat are lustrous.
Chows should always be fed healthy, fresh, and high-quality dog diets, as well as vitamins as needed, to promote their greatest health.
Electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals are normally absorbed at a lower rate in older dogs.
Oral health difficulties are the most prevalent reason for their inability to eat, resulting in a lower intake of vitamins and minerals on a regular basis.
Consult your veterinarian to see if multivitamins are beneficial.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids And Fish Oil
As an anti-inflammatory, a fish-oil supplement is completely safe.
This supplement can aid in the treatment of allergic dermatitis, as well as itchy or dry skin.
Giving your dog fish oil, according to some experts, can help to delay the onset of arthritis.
Always check to see if these items contain DHA and EPA before purchasing.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is well-known for its role in the formation of ligaments and cartilage, as well as its ability to act as a lubricant by making joint fluids slippery.
Puppies of large breeds are more likely to have mineral imbalances, which can cause developmental concerns with bone strength and growth.
Large breed dogs will receive 500 mg twice a day, as recommended.
Because Chows are prone to hip dysplasia and arthritis, this product works best when combined with fish oil.
Finally, here are a few essential nutrients for your dog.
These might be good to your Chows, however it depends on the dog. Just make sure you talk to a professional veterinarian before starting them on any supplement program.
The Best Chow Chow Food: A Healthy Diet For Everyone
It's critical to determine your Chow's nutritional demands at every stage of life, depending on his age and overall condition.
Consult your veterinarian about the ideal food and quantity recommendations for their age, weight, and any health conditions they may have.
Puppies
Because a puppy's digestive system is more sensitive than an adult's, experts recommend tiny, frequent servings (for example, a 12 cup four times a day) to ensure appropriate nutrition, energy, and digestion time in between meals.
The Canine Adult
Owners will wish to adjust meal-time portions based on the dog's activity levels when a Chow has reached the age of one year.
Because this breed is often inactive, see your veterinarian if you have any concerns regarding portion control or feeding frequency.
Consider healthy, grain-free dog treats created in the USA with high-quality ingredients like salmon and pumpkin for a snack or training session.
Seniors
You'll be intimately familiar with your dog's likes, dislikes, and dietary demands at this stage for older canines.
However, this does not negate the importance of being aware of their health requirements.
Quality dog food rich in whole ingredients, vitamins, and minerals is required to maintain his vigor far into his senior years.
It's critical at this point to make sure your Chow Chow is getting all of the nutrients he or she requires.
Furthermore, a dog at this age is likely to be even less energetic, so keep portion sizes in mind.
How Much Should My Chow Chow Puppy Be Fed?
Always follow the portion size recommendations of the food manufacturer, and especially your veterinarian, who is more knowledgeable about your puppy's specific needs.
Puppies under the age of 14 weeks are unlikely to overeat and can typically be fed as much as they desire.
An adult puppy may eat between 2 and 4 cups of dry food each day over the course of 3-5 meals, as a general approximation.
Keep note of how much you're feeding your puppy, his weight, and his overall health as he grows.
Make minor adjustments to their daily food intake if their condition gets too thin or obese.
Is My Puppy the Correct Size?
Your Chow Chow breeder and veterinarian will be able to advise you on a healthy growth path for your Chow Chow puppy.
You can also keep track of their progress between weigh-ins by looking at their general body condition.
Because it relies on judging the visibility of their ribs, determining body condition in dogs with a long, full coat of hair can be difficult.
Inquire about your puppy's bodily condition when you visit the veterinarian to ensure it is within the healthy range.
The existence of a “waist” and a little fat coverage around the ribs are important indicators of general condition that may be felt through the coat.
As you grow to know your puppy over the months, you'll acquire confidence in determining whether or not they have the appropriate amount of body fat!
My Puppy Still Hasn't Satisfied His Hunger
Adult dogs require smaller, more regular meals, whereas puppies require smaller, more frequent meals.
A minimum of three meals each day is recommended, but more is acceptable as long as you do not overeat.
During socialization and training sessions, you can also utilize appropriate food treats.
Carrot sticks or green beans are good options for Chow Chows who like vegetables.
When tracking your dog's overall daily food intake, make sure to include treats and snacks.
My Puppy Refuses to Eat
When your puppy is adjusting to a new situation, he or she may temporarily stop eating.
A new residence, for example, can have an impact on appetite and routine.
Young puppies cannot go without food or water for long periods of time.
If your puppy refuses to eat for more than a day, you should take him to the veterinarian to discover if there is a medical reason.
Is A Chow Chow Considered A Puppy For How Long?
Chow Chows are considered adults when they reach the age of one year, however they can eat puppy food until they reach the age of two.
If your puppy is eating the recommended amount for their diet and is becoming overweight, you may want to switch them to adult food sooner.
Consult your veterinarian if you're unsure.
Chow-Chow Background
The Chow Chow, an ancient Chinese all-purpose dog, resembles a powerful, deep-chested nobleman with an air of incomprehensible timelessness.
The Chow Chow is a breed of one-of-a-kind joys, dignified, serious-minded, and aloof.
Chows are muscular, compact dogs with a shoulder height of up to 20 inches.
A lion's mane ruff around the head and shoulders, a blue-black tongue, deep-set almond eyes that add to a scowling, haughty face, and a stiff-legged walk are all distinguishing features.
Chows can have rough or smooth red, black, blue, cinnamon, or cream coats.
Chows are known to be the cleanest of dogs, according to their owners: they are easy to housebreak, have little doggy stench, and are known to be as meticulous as cats.
Chows who have been well-socialized are never ferocious or uncontrollable, but always refined and dignified.
Outsiders find them reserved, but they are committed to their loved ones.
Chows are calm and versatile, and they don't require any extra exercise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much should I feed my Chow Chow puppy?
Because a puppy's digestive system is more sensitive than an adult's, experts recommend tiny, frequent servings (for example, a 12 cup four times a day) to ensure appropriate nutrition, energy, and digestion time in between meals.
What should I feed a Chow Chow puppy?
Chows can eat either wet or dry dog chow that is comprehensive and balanced. Chow puppies require puppy chow to ensure that they receive all of the nutrients they require for a healthy first year of life.
When should I feed my Chow Chow puppy?
As your puppy's muscles, organs, and bones mature, their body weight will double. Your Chow Chow puppy will acquire the majority of its nutrients from their mother's milk throughout the neonatal stage. Introduce a few dry kibbles mixed with warm water about 4 weeks.
Can Chow Chows drink milk?
In little amounts, milk is a safe treat. A few tablespoons of cow's milk or goat's milk once in a while can be a lovely treat for your dog without the negative consequences of overindulgence. Obesity and pancreatitis are significant illnesses that can result from too much fat in your dog's diet.
What can I feed my 8 week old puppy?
You can start feeding your puppy soft foods like canned or dried dog foods (if you're not sure what that is, read our entire guide here) once they've been weaned off their mother's milk (about 8 weeks). Hard meals should not be introduced to your puppy until they are at least 9-10 weeks old.