Guide June 15, 2026

5 Things People Always Ask Us About Chow Chows (And How Zoey Proves Them Wrong) 🦁🐾

In this post:

We're answering the five most common questions we get about Chow Chows and sharing how Zoey has completely redefined what people expect from the breed.

If you've ever walked a Chow Chow in public, you'll know one thing:

People are curious.

And honestly, we get it.

With their lion-like mane, blue tongue, serious expressions, and fluffy coats, Chow Chows look unlike any other dog breed.

Whenever we're out with Zoey, whether it's a morning walk, a dog festival, the beach, or even just grabbing coffee, people stop us to ask questions.

Some questions are fair.

Some are hilarious.

And some are based on things people have heard about Chow Chows over the years.

The funny thing is...

Zoey manages to prove almost all of them wrong.

So today we're answering the five most common questions we get about Chow Chows and sharing how Zoey has completely redefined what people expect from the breed.

1. "Aren't Chow Chows Aggressive?"

This is probably the question we hear the most.

The truth?

Chow Chows aren't naturally aggressive.

They're simply independent and selective with their attention.

Unlike some breeds that want to greet every person they see, Chows prefer to observe first and decide later.

Zoey certainly has that Chow attitude.

She won't run to every stranger demanding attention.

But once she decides you're part of her circle, she's incredibly sweet.

In fact, one of her favourite activities is walking up to other dogs and giving them little licks.

That's her version of saying hello.

Zoey the Chow Chow
Zoey the Chow Chow

2. "Do Chow Chows Like Cuddles?"

Every single time people hear that Chow Chows are independent, they assume they don't enjoy affection.

Zoey would like to disagree.

Very strongly.

While she definitely likes having her own space sometimes, she absolutely loves cuddles.

Especially at the end of the day.

There's nothing she enjoys more than curling up next to mom and dad after dinner and pretending she's a tiny lap dog.

(Despite being very much not a tiny lap dog.)

The biggest misconception about Chow Chows is that they don't show affection.

They do.

They just show it on their own terms.

Very Chow-like.

3. "Are Chow Chows Good With Kids?"

Another common myth.

Many people assume Chow Chows don't enjoy being around children.

Zoey couldn't be more different.

She absolutely loves kids.

Whenever we're out walking, she naturally gravitates towards children.

Maybe it's their energy.

Maybe it's because they get excited when they see her fluffy mane.

Whatever the reason, she's always gentle and patient around them.

Of course, every dog is different and early socialization matters.

But Zoey has shown us that Chow Chows can be wonderful family dogs when raised with love and positive experiences.

Zoey relaxing
Zoey relaxing

4. "Why Does She Look So Serious All The Time?"

We laugh every time someone asks this.

Because yes...

Zoey often looks like she's evaluating life choices.

Even when she's perfectly happy.

That's simply the Chow Chow face.

Many Chows have naturally serious expressions because of their facial structure and deep-set eyes.

Meanwhile, behind that serious face:

  • She's thinking about treats.
  • Planning her next nap.
  • Wondering if she can convince us to share food.
  • Deciding whether a squirrel deserves her attention.

The face says "CEO."

The personality says "Professional Treat Inspector."

5. "Is She Always This Calm?"

This one surprises people the most.

Many first-time Chow Chow owners expect a dog that's constantly bouncing around.

But Chow Chows are generally known for being calm and composed.

Zoey definitely has moments of excitement.

Especially when:

  • Food appears.
  • Chanel (her best friend) arrives.
  • Someone opens the treat cupboard.

But overall?

She's incredibly relaxed.

She loves sitting quietly and watching the world go by.

It's one of our favourite things about her.

She doesn't need constant entertainment.

She's perfectly happy just being part of whatever we're doing.

So What Makes Zoey Different?

If there's one thing we've learned from sharing our life with Zoey, it's this:

Every Chow Chow has their own personality.

Some are more independent.

Some are more playful.

Some are more reserved.

And some, like Zoey, somehow manage to be:

  • 🦁 Majestic like a lion
  • 💛 Cuddly like a teddy bear
  • 👶 Great with kids
  • 🐶 Friendly with dogs
  • 😌 Calm most of the time
  • 🎭 Slightly dramatic when treats are involved

She may not fit every Chow Chow stereotype, but that's exactly what makes her special.

Final Woof 🐾

The next time someone tells you that all Chow Chows are aloof, aggressive, or unfriendly, remember this:

They probably haven't met Zoey.

Because behind the lion mane, blue tongue, and serious expression is a dog who loves cuddles, adores children, enjoys meeting other dogs, and somehow manages to steal hearts wherever she goes.

And honestly?

That's our favourite thing about her.

🐾

What Worked for Zoey

Every Chow Chow is different, but finding a consistent routine, lots of patience, and the right treats made all the difference for us. We highly recommend testing things slowly and sticking to what makes your fluffy friend the happiest. Check out our other guides to see how she navigates daily life!

Ready for more fluffy adventures?

Get the best Chow Chow guides, or follow Zoey's daily life in Dubai.

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