Species Profile

Chow Pom

Q: What is the lifespan of the Chow pom?

The chow pom’s lifespan is between 12-15 years.

Q: How much does a chow pom cost?

These dogs are expensive, as they can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $4,000.

Canis lupus familiaris

Big fluff, northern-type attitude.

Csisson8/Shutterstock.com

Origin Location

This map shows the native origin of the Chow Pom. As a domesticated species, they are now found worldwide.

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Found in 1 state/province

🇺🇸 California United States

Human 5'8"

Chow Pom 1 ft 2 in

Chow Pom stands at 20% of average human height.

Domesticated

Diet Omnivore

Activity Diurnal+

Lifespan 12 years

Weight 14 lbs

Status Not Evaluated

Did You Know?

A Chow Pom isn't a standardized kennel-club breed - each dog can look and act quite different depending on which parent's traits dominate.

A ‘Chow Pom’ typically refers to a mixed-breed domestic dog produced by crossing a Chow Chow and a Pomeranian. As a hybrid, appearance and temperament can vary widely between individuals depending on which parent traits dominate.

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Carnivora
Family: Canidae
Genus: Canis
Species: Canis lupus

Distinguishing Features

Spitz-type look is common (upright ears, plush double coat, curled or semi-curled tail)
Size often small-to-medium (between typical Pomeranian and Chow Chow), but variable
Coat often very dense and fluffy; coloration can vary (reds, creams, blacks, sable, etc.)
Facial structure may range from fox-like (Pom) to broader/more bear-like (Chow)
Temperament may blend Chow reserve/independence with Pom alertness; varies by individual and socialization

Males and females differ in size

Height

♂ 10 in (8 in – 1 ft 1 in)

♀ 1 ft 2 in (10 in – 1 ft 6 in)

Length

♂ 1 ft 10 in (1 ft 6 in – 2 ft 2 in)

♀ 1 ft 10 in (1 ft 4 in – 2 ft 4 in)

Weight

♂ 20 lbs (13 lbs – 29 lbs)

♀ 22 lbs (9 lbs – 40 lbs)

Tail Length

♂ 7 in (5 in – 9 in)

♀ 6 in (4 in – 8 in)

Top Speed

19 mph

Appearance

Primary Colors

Cream Red Orange Black Brown

Secondary Colors

White Tan Gold Gray Spotted

Skin Type Colored skin under a dense double coat (soft undercoat plus longer guard hairs). Skin can get dry, get hot spots, or become irritated if the coat mats or stays damp; check coat and skin often.

Distinctive Features

Mixed-breed (designer) dog: Chow Chow × Pomeranian cross; not a standardized/kennel-club breed and appearance varies significantly between individuals and litters.
Distinguished within the domestic dog context by selective companion-breed traits: compact spitz-type build, very dense double coat, and exaggerated ruff and tail plume compared with many working-type dogs.
Spitz-type silhouette is common: wedge-shaped head, small triangular ears (often semi-erect to erect), and a high-set tail frequently carried curled over the back.
Coat is typically very plush and high-volume; ruff/"mane" around the neck is common (Chow influence) and tail feathering is often prominent (Pom influence).
Facial features vary: may have a shorter, fox-like muzzle (Pom-leaning) or a broader head with heavier cheek/ruff hair (Chow-leaning). Some individuals may show a more brachy/shorter muzzle, increasing breathing/heat sensitivity risk.
Tongue/pigmentation can vary: some may show darker mouth pigment (Chow influence), but this is not guaranteed and should not be treated as a defining trait.
Grooming/care requirements: frequent brushing (often several times weekly; daily during seasonal shedding) to prevent matting and trapped undercoat; periodic de-shedding and careful drying after bathing or rain to reduce skin issues.
Heat management: dense coat can predispose to overheating; provide shade, water, avoid intense exercise in heat/humidity, and never rely on shaving as a universal solution (can worsen coat/skin issues in double-coated dogs).
May inherit health problems from parent breeds: patellar luxation, hip or elbow dysplasia, eye issues like entropion or dry eye, dental crowding/periodontal disease, hypothyroidism, and skin allergies or hot spots.
Preventive care notes: maintain healthy weight (joint protection), routine dental care, regular ear/skin checks (dense coat can hide irritation), and veterinary screening tailored to orthopedic, thyroid, and ocular concerns.

Sexual Dimorphism

Usually mild sexual dimorphism typical of domestic dogs: males tend to be slightly larger and more robust, but in this mixed-breed cross size and coat expression vary widely.

♂

On average may have a broader head/neck and heavier ruff (especially in Chow-leaning coats), though not consistent.
May show a slightly more substantial bone structure and chest depth compared with females of similar lineage.

♀

Often slightly finer-boned with a narrower head/neck and lighter ruff, but coat fullness can still be substantial.
May appear more compact/'foxy' in outline in Pom-leaning individuals; variability is high.

A Chow Pom isn't a standardized kennel-club breed - each dog can look and act quite different depending on which parent's traits dominate.

Both parent breeds are northern-type dogs, so many Chow Poms inherit a thick double coat, a plumed tail, and a foxlike face.

Some inherit the Chow Chow's distinctive blue-black tongue pigmentation (it can be partial or absent).

Despite being a companion mix, many Chow Poms retain watchdog instincts and will "announce" visitors with sharp barks.

Size can vary widely: many fall between toy/small to small-medium, depending on the parents' sizes and the specific cross.

Coat color possibilities are broad (cream, red, orange, black, sable, parti), reflecting Pomeranian variety plus Chow colors.

Temperament often blends "one-person loyalty" (Chow) with social sparkle (Pom), making early socialization especially valuable.

Unique Adaptations

Dense double coat (northern-type heritage): insulating undercoat plus longer guard hairs helps retain warmth - useful in cold climates but increases heat risk in summer.
Plumed, often curled tail: helps protect the face when resting (a classic northern-type feature) and signals arousal/alertness.
Compact build with quick reflexes: Pomeranian influence can add agility and "busy" movement, while Chow influence can add sturdiness.
Efficient thermoregulation in cold, not heat: these dogs may tolerate cold better than many breeds but can overheat easily; shade/water and limited midday exercise are important.
Strong social signaling: erect or semi-erect ears, tail carriage, and stiff posture changes can make their emotions readable - helpful for owners practicing consent-based handling.

Interesting Behaviors

Alert barking (watchdog behavior): often seen in Pomeranians; may bark to announce new sounds or visitors.
Catlike independence: some show the Chow's reserved, self-contained style and may prefer calm affection over constant handling.
Shadowing a favorite person: bonding intensely with one household member is common in Chow-influenced dogs.
Territorial hovering: lingering near doors/windows or "patrolling" the home, especially in unfamiliar environments.
Cold-weather enthusiasm: many play longer in cool temps, then slow down quickly in heat due to dense coat.
Resource guarding tendencies: may guard toys/food if not proactively trained; early, gentle trading games help.
Northern-type circling and denning: some spin before lying down or seek cozy corners, echoing ancestral nesting behaviors.

Cultural Significance

The Chow Pom, a modern Chow Chow × Pomeranian mix, shows both parents' pasts: Chow Chows were ancient northern guard and companion "lion-dogs," and Pomeranians became small, popular lapdogs in European courts after Queen Victoria.

Myths & Legends

Chinese folk tales say the Chow Chow’s dark blue tongue came from licking the painted night sky or tasting a drop of heaven’s blue. These stories add mystery to the breed’s unusual tongue color.

Lion-dog symbolism: across Chinese tradition, lionlike guardian figures protect gates and temples; Chow-type "lion dogs" were often culturally linked with this protective, watchful role, blending real dogs with the broader guardian-lion iconography.

In European royal stories, Pomeranians came to mean refined companions. Queen Victoria's love for small Poms is often told as the moment they became a symbol of fashionable pets.

Chow Pom, a Chow Chow × Pomeranian mix, often acts like a watchdog: alert, quick to bark at strangers, and loyal to its family, fitting the home guardian role.

The name "Pomeranian" comes from Pomerania, a coastal region. People tell a story that this small dog comes from a northern land of sailors, sea, and cold winter weather.

NE Not Evaluated

Has not yet been evaluated against the criteria.

Population Stable

Birth 3 pups

Lifespan 12 years

Lifespan

In the Wild

8–16 years

In Captivity

10–16 years

Reproduction

Mating System Polygynandry

Social Structure Managed Domestic

Breeding Pattern Serial

Fertilization Managed Selective

Birth Type Internal_fertilization

Chow Pom (Canis lupus familiaris) breed mates under human control. Dogs are polygynandrous (many males and females mate) with internal fertilization and a copulatory "tie". Breeding is managed/selective, serial estrus, no cooperative breeding. Gestation ~63 days; avoid large sire on tiny dam.

Social Pack Group: 3

Activity Diurnal, Crepuscular, Cathemeral

Diet Omnivore Meat-forward complete dog food emphasizing animal protein (commonly chicken or turkey), often paired with palatable wet food toppers.

Temperament

Hybrid-variant temperament (HUBS): individuals range from Chow-leaning (reserved, dignified, territorial, less demonstrative) to Pom-leaning (alert, outgoing, vocal, attention-seeking).

Affection is often selective: strong bonding to primary handler(s); may be wary of strangers and may need controlled greetings and consent-based handling to avoid defensive reactions.

Alert watchdog tendency: quick to notice novel sounds/movement; barking can be frequent in Pom-leaning individuals and can escalate with boredom or inconsistent boundaries.

Dog sociability can be variable: may be tolerant with familiar dogs yet selective with unfamiliar dogs; early puppy socialization and ongoing neutral exposures are important to reduce reactivity.

Trainability: can be intelligent but sometimes stubborn/independent (Chow influence). Best with short, consistent sessions and positive reinforcement; harsh corrections can increase avoidance or defensiveness.

Play/drive profile: typically moderate energy with bursts of play; some show moderate prey-chase toward small animals. Reliable recall may require long-line practice.

Care requirement affecting behavior: dense double coat (often heavy shedding) can increase heat sensitivity; in warm weather many become less social/less active and may guard cool resting spots-plan shaded, low-intensity outings.

Chow Poms may get patellar luxation, hip/elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, skin allergies, eye problems (entropion, cataracts), and crowded teeth, which can cause pain, irritability, or touch avoidance. Regular grooming, weight control, and gentle handling help.

Communication

alert barking Often frequent; intensity varies by individual

low growl/grumble when guarding space/resources

whining/whimpering for attention or when distressed

play barks and excited yips Pom-leaning

occasional howl-like vocalization in response to sirens/novel sounds

tail carriage and fluffing High, curled tail often used as an arousal/alert signal

ear position and facial tension Stiff face/closed mouth can precede defensive behavior

body blocking/leaning to claim space near people or resources More Chow-like

play bow and bouncy, darting movement More Pom-like

nose targeting/pawing to solicit interaction

scent marking and investigative sniffing on walks Territorial mapping

avoidance signals (turning head away, freezing, retreating) that are important to respect to prevent escalation

Habitat

Urban Suburban Agricultural/Farmland Forest Deciduous Forest Coniferous Forest Woodland Grassland Prairie Steppe Shrubland Desert Mountain Alpine Meadow Tundra Wetland River/Stream Lake Coastal +13

Biomes:

Temperate Forest Temperate Grassland Boreal Forest (Taiga) Tundra Alpine Mediterranean Desert Hot Desert Cold Wetland Freshwater Marine Tropical Rainforest Tropical Dry Forest Savanna +8

Terrain:

Plains Hilly Coastal Valley Mountainous Island

Elevation: Up to 16404 ft 3 in

Ecological Role

Human-associated companion omnivore; in free-ranging contexts functions as an opportunistic mesopredator/scavenger rather than a specialist hunter.

Rodent deterrence/control in yards and peri-domestic settings (when roaming) Scavenging of food waste (can reduce refuse but also creates human-wildlife conflict risk) Nutrient cycling via feces in managed environments Indirect support of human well-being through companionship and working/training roles

Diet Details

Main Prey:

Small mammals Lagomorphs Small birds and eggs Invertebrates Carrion and food waste

Other Foods:

Starches and grains Root vegetables Non-starchy vegetables Fruits Cultivated plant oils

Domestication Status

Domesticated

Chow Pom (Chow Chow × Pomeranian mix) (Canis lupus familiaris) is a mixed companion dog, not a standard breed. Size, coat, head, and temper vary. They often show spitz traits (thick double coat, fox-like face, curled tail), can be independent or alert, and need regular grooming and early socialization to avoid nervousness, guarding, or too much barking.

Danger Level

Moderate

Bite risk typical of domestic dogs, with potentially increased likelihood of defensive/territorial reactions if Chow Chow traits dominate and socialization is insufficient
Nuisance/alert barking can escalate conflicts with neighbors/visitors and may precede snapping in anxious individuals
Handling sensitivity: some may resist grooming, restraint, or being picked up (raising scratch/bite risk during grooming/vet care)
Child-safety concern: small size in some individuals plus guarding tendencies can create higher risk of nips if children mishandle the dog
Zoonotic/health considerations common to pet dogs (e.g., parasites, bite wound infection) if preventive care is poor

As a Pet

Suitable as Pet

Legality: Generally legal to own as a pet in the United States and most jurisdictions (not typically targeted by breed-specific laws). Ownership is still subject to local licensing, leash laws, vaccination requirements, housing/HOA rules, and some landlord/insurer restrictions; verify local regulations.

Care Level: Experienced

Purchase Cost: $100 - $2,500

Lifetime Cost: $20,000 - $50,000

Economic Value

Uses:

Companion animal market Designer-mix breeding and sales (variable, non-standardized) Veterinary services (preventive care; orthopedic, dental, ophthalmology, dermatology) Professional grooming and coat-care services Training/behavior services (socialization, reactivity management) Pet products (food, dental chews, coats/brushes, enrichment)

Products:

Household companionship
Paid adoption/rehome fees or purchase from breeders/owners
Grooming services (deshedding, trimming, de-matting)
Training classes/private behavior consulting
Breed/mix-related social media content and small-scale influencer value (occasionally)

Predators 6

Coyote Canis latrans

Gray wolf Canis lupus

Mountain lion Puma concolor

Bobcat Lynx rufus

Golden eagle Aquila chrysaetos

Alligator Alligator mississippiensis

Related Species 7

Gray wolf Canis lupus Shared Species

Domestic dog Canis lupus familiaris Shared Species

Coyote Canis latrans Shared Genus

Golden jackal Canis aureus Shared Genus

Ethiopian wolf Canis simensis Shared Genus

Red fox Vulpes vulpes Shared Family

Raccoon dog Nyctereutes procyonoides Shared Family

Ecological Equivalents 5

Animals that fill a similar ecological role in their ecosystem

German Spitz Canis lupus familiaris Shares a spitz-type build (double coat, wedge-shaped head, plumed tail) and is commonly kept as an alert companion. Often overlaps in size and temperament range with Chow Pom outcomes.

Eurasier Canis lupus familiaris Similar 'family companion spitz' niche: moderate exercise needs, a thick coat, and a tendency toward reserved or guarding behavior when not well socialized.

Shiba Inu Canis lupus familiaris Comparable independent spitz temperament traits — selective sociability, strong preferences, and potential for reactivity — and similar management needs, including consistent training and early socialization.

Pekingese Canis lupus familiaris Overlaps in companion role and shares care constraints (heat sensitivity, grooming, and airway considerations in smaller individuals), despite not being a spitz.

Pomsky Canis lupus familiaris A comparable "spitz mix" concept in which adult size, coat, and temperament vary widely by parental influence, presenting similar predictability challenges and coat-management needs.

A Chow Pom is a cross between the Chow Chow and the Pomeranian. This beautiful designer breed is adored for its gorgeous teddy bear-like appearance and friendly and loving nature. They make excellent family pets and are ideal for individuals seeking small to medium-sized dogs. The Chow Pom makes a fantastic companion that will provide you with great love and delight!

Chow Pom Fun Facts

Chow Pom dogs are susceptible to dermatitis as the density of their hair encourages fleas to reproduce throughout the body.
Despite their small size, the Chow Pom is known to confront and challenge much larger dogs.
The Chow Pom communicates a lot by using its loud bark.

hair vs fur — Chow chows have fluffy coats and are well known for their purple tongues.
©Flower_Garden/Shutterstock.com

Chow Pom Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Very independent: Always ready for adventure, these dogs are very mischievous and entertain themselves.	Excessive barking: This breed is always on high alert. They bark to warn owners about strangers or express their emotions.
Affectionate: Although independent, your chow Pom will cuddle you consistently.	Regular grooming: Their hair is fine and fluffy, causing unwanted tangles. Consistent coat trimmings and brushing are required.
Adapt well to apartment living: Because they have a medium body size, these dogs can adapt well to smaller living areas, as long as they get their daily dose of exercise.	Expensive to purchase: The Chow Pom has become famous for its looks and size, making it a very expensive breed. A puppy usually sells for $2000-$4000.

Chow Pom Size and Weight

The standard height and weight of the Chow Pom are between 9 to 16 inches and 10 to 25 pounds.

Chow Pom Common Health Issues

Life expectancy for the Chow Pom is 12 to 15 years. However, they share the same health risks as their parent dog breeds. These health issues include eye problems, patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, collapsing trachea, epilepsy, and congestive heart failure. Therefore, you should consult a veterinarian to ensure your pet receives the proper care and attention.

Eye Problems

An eye condition called Entropion results when the eyelid bends inward, causing the hairs to scratch the cornea’s surface.

Patellar luxation

Patellar luxation occurs when the knee joint moves out of place, causing the dog to become very uncomfortable and experience pain.

Elbow Dysplasia

This condition is identical to patellar luxation but involves the elbow joint. As a result, the joint moves out of place, causing pain.

Dislocation of the hip

Dislocation of the hip is called hip dysplasia, which is caused by a deformed hip joint, causing bone to rub directly against bone.

Collapsing Trachea

A collapsing trachea happens when cartilage in the trachea weakens, causing it to flatten. Eventually, as the cartilage starts to deteriorate, it will collapse. This condition is fatal as the trachea becomes fully obstructed.

Epilepsy

Chow Pom dogs are susceptible to seizures, and cases can range from mild to severe. Although this condition is not curable, consistent medication can be provided by your veterinarian to keep your dog’s epilepsy under control.

Congestive Heart Failure

Congestive heart failure refers to a cardiac disease where the heart cannot pump blood efficiently throughout the body. The increased pressure causes fluid to accumulate in and around the lungs, preventing the lungs from fully expanding and causing a lack of oxygen in the blood supply. This condition leads to many health issues.

Chow Pom Temperament

Chow Pom dogs are warm-hearted and affectionate, making them excellent companions for youngsters and adults. These dogs are also vigilant and intelligent, allowing for easy training. They are often full of energy and playful, but they can also be relatively peaceful and laid-back when they want to relax and unwind.

How to Take Care of Your Chow Pom

As pet owners, we all want the best for our animal family members. You can keep your pet happy and healthy by following these guidelines:

Get your dog microchipped so you can quickly locate it in an emergency.
Schedule regular veterinary checkups to get an update on your dog’s health.
Train your dog to prevent any behavior issues.
Take your dog for daily walks and engage in playtime to form a bond with your pet.
Provide your dog with a well-balanced diet and fresh, clean water.
Make sure that you take your dog often to get groomed.
Provide your dog with a safe and comfortable living environment.

Maintenance and Grooming

Because of their thick fur coats, Chow Chow Pomeranian hybrids require regular maintenance. It is vital to brush their coats at least every other day to prevent their hair from knotting, causing unruly matting of their hair. In addition, these canines need a bath once a month to get rid of oil buildup on their skin. Owners should brush their pearly whites and trim their nails to prevent any injury to them or their owners.

Training

When introducing the Chow Pom to training, be assertive and show you are in control, as these dogs show a strong alpha presence; they always want to be the leader. Use short training sessions; because of their high energy, these dogs don’t have a long attention span.

To obtain an optimum response from your dog, use positive reinforcement when a task is performed correctly. Praise and reward your dog with a treat.

Exercise

This breed requires frequent exercise to keep healthy and happy. Your Chow Pom will enjoy long walks and games of fetch or catch. These dogs thrive in households with fenced-in yards where they can run and play.

Puppies

Due to the popularity of these dogs, they have become expensive. They can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $4,000. Make sure to do your research and search for a reputable Chow Pom breeder.

Pomeranians have appeared in several films, including Dumb and Dumber.
©pattarawat/Shutterstock.com

The Best Dog Food for your Chow Pom

Your Chow Pom should receive suitable food for their well-being and healthy development. Refrain from feeding your dog low-quality dog food as these contain several toxic by-products and fillers, which are nutritionally useless.

When determining which food best suits your Chow Pom, you can decide between dry kibble or a homemade meal. Following guidelines on how much you feed your dog is essential, as this can affect your dog’s weight and metabolism.

Dry Kibble

A dry kibble diet can assist your dog with oral health. The crunchy texture of kibble encourages your dog to chew before swallowing, which improves digestion and aids in tooth cleaning.

Homemade Meal

When considering a homemade meal, remember your dog’s food requires the correct number of proteins, carbs, fats, and vitamins. The ratio should be 40% meat, 30% starch, and 30% vegetable. These can include:

Red meat
Chicken and fish
Sweet potatoes, spinach, carrots, green beans, zucchini, and broccoli
White rice
Wheat-free pasta

Chow Poms and Children

These caring dogs get along well with children and other pets. Introducing your dog to children and new people is critical, as early socialization training will prevent shyness or fearfulness.

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Sources

Daily Dog Drama / Accessed December 11, 2022
Shop for your Cause / Accessed December 11, 2022
Pawesome / Accessed December 11, 2022

About the Author

Kayeleen Parsons

Kayeleen Parsons is a writer at A-Z Animals that thoroughly enjoys writing about animals of all types. She has a love for many animals, but her Cocker Spaniel dog holds a special place in her heart. In addition to being a writer, she's also an English teacher, sharing her knowledge to help her students become excellent in the language and literature. When she's not busy writing, Kayeleen enjoys reading and spending quality time with her family in her homeland of Cape Town.

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Chow Pom FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the temperament of a Chow Pom?

Chow chow pom dogs are warm-hearted and affectionate. This breed is usually used as therapy dogs, making them excellent companions for youngsters and adults.

What is the lifespan of the Chow pom?

How much does a chow pom cost?

View Chow Pom Photos

Chow Pom

Chow Pom Distribution

Found in 1 state/province

Size Comparison

At a Glance

Scientific Classification