5. Chow Chow

(Image by Boso under a CC attribution licence)

There are two recognized types of the Chow Chow—the rough-haired Chow Chow and the smooth-haired Chow Chow. The breed is known for its distinct blue-black tongue and hindlegs which are almost straight giving them a rather stilted gait.

Chow Chows are very dominant thus they need a dominant owner who is firm and consistent. They are good with children and can live side by side with cats and other household pets when they are introduced to them while they are young.

The breed can grow to a height of 18-22 inches and can reach a weight of around 45-70 pounds. Chow Chows are very sensitive to heat and are prone to suffer an eyelid abnormality known as entropion. They often snore because of their short muzzles.

Chow Chows are thought to be related to the Chinese Shar-Pei. The breed was used by the Chinese as a working dog to hunt, herd, pull a sled, and as a guard dog. The dog’s fur has been used to make human coats. It was only in the late 1800’s when the Chow Chow was introduced to England.

Today a Chow Chow can cost around $3,000 – $8,500.