Chow Chow Hip, Skin, and Eye Health — Common Conditions and Care Guide

Skin & CoatBreed HealthMeongsiljang Veterinary Advisory Board

Chow Chows are a breed that requires special attention to genetic health issues such as hip dysplasia, skin diseases, and entropion. Here’s a summary of their main health concerns and key points for lifelong care.

What kind of breed is the Chow Chow?

A full-body view of an adult Chow Chow standing outdoors.

The Chow Chow is a medium-sized breed originating from China, known for its thick double coat, wrinkled skin, and distinctive blue-black tongue. There are three key areas to focus on when caring for this breed: the hips, skin, and eyes. Chows have a higher genetic predisposition to hip dysplasia, and their dense coat and facial wrinkles make them prone to skin conditions. Additionally, entropion, where the eyelids roll inward, is a common issue. Lifelong preventive care in these areas significantly impacts their overall quality of life.

Top 4 Conditions Chow Chows Need to Watch For

Here’s a summary of the genetic and constitutional conditions that Chow Chow owners should be aware of.

Hip Dysplasia: This is a common hereditary condition in which the hip joint does not fit together properly, leading to pain and arthritis.

Skin Fold Dermatitis: Moisture, bacteria, and yeast accumulate in the deep facial and neck folds, causing inflammation.

Entropion: The eyelids roll inward, causing the eyelashes to scratch the cornea.

Autoimmune Skin Disease (Pemphigus): Chow Chows are listed in veterinary dermatology textbooks as a breed at high risk for pemphigus foliaceus. Symptoms may include crusting, erosion, and depigmentation around the face and nose.

Hip Dysplasia — The Most Common Hereditary Condition

Hip dysplasia is a developmental and progressive condition in which the femoral head (ball) does not fit properly into the acetabulum (socket) of the pelvis, resulting in joint laxity. According to veterinary textbooks, the exact cause remains unclear, but it is considered a multifactorial trait with a genetic basis, involving both genetic and environmental factors in its expression. While more common in large-breed dogs, medium- and small-breed dogs, as well as cats, can also be severely affected. Although the hip joint is normal at birth, laxity and incongruity develop during growth, leading to abnormal wear and the progression of osteoarthritis, which can cause pain and various gait abnormalities. Diagnosis is made through ventrodorsal (VD) radiography and measurement of the Norberg angle, so regular check-ups from the growth stage onward are recommended.

Skin Fold and Double Coat Care Is a Lifelong Commitment

Chow Chows have a thick double coat and deep facial and neck folds that easily trap moisture, sebum, and food debris. According to veterinary dermatology textbooks, this environment can quickly lead to bacterial or yeast dermatitis.

Fold care: Wipe daily with a soft cloth and ensure the area is completely dry.

Undercoat brushing: Brush at least 2–3 times per week, reaching the undercoat to maintain airflow.

Summer precautions: In hot, humid conditions, heatstroke and dermatitis can occur simultaneously.

Gently wiping the wrinkles on a Chow Chow's face with a soft cloth.

Eye Health — Early Surgery Is the Answer for Entropion

Entropion is a structural condition in which the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to continuously irritate the cornea. If left untreated, this persistent irritation can lead to serious secondary ocular complications. Chow Chows are known to have a high incidence of entropion due to their facial wrinkles. Frequent blinking, excessive eye discharge, or tearing warrants a veterinary ophthalmic examination. Once diagnosed, the standard treatment is surgical correction, typically performed after the face has matured, generally at 6 to 12 months of age or older.

Chow Chow Health Checkpoints by Life Stage

Item	Puppyhood (~12 months)	Adulthood (1–7 years)	Senior (7 years+)
Hip examination	Preliminary checkup around 6 months	Annual radiographic exam recommended	Pain and gait check every 6 months
Skin care	Check wrinkles and between toes daily	Brushing and wrinkle cleaning 2–3 times a week	Early response to skin disease
Eye care	Check for entropion	Regular ophthalmic checkups	Check for cataracts and keratoconjunctivitis sicca
Weight management	No overfeeding (joint burden)	Maintain BCS 4–5	Maintain muscle mass, low-fat diet

Please adjust the checkup schedule through consultation with your veterinarian.

Daily and Weekly Health Routines

For Chow Chows, observation is prevention. Establishing a routine helps you catch warning signs early.

Daily: Wipe facial wrinkles and between the toes, check for eye discharge or tear stains, and monitor appetite and gait.

2–3 times a week: Brush down to the undercoat, and check the inner ear for odor or discharge.

Once a month: Weigh your dog, and scan the entire skin for red spots or hair loss.

1–2 times a year: Comprehensive health checkup including hips, skin, and eyes.

Since obesity is considered a non-genetic risk factor for hip dysplasia alongside body condition and muscle mass, maintaining an appropriate weight is crucial for joint health.

Chow Chow Specific Constitution — Caution with Anesthesia and Heat

Chow Chows have a sensitive temperament and a thick double coat that limits heat dissipation, so they require special care in hot, humid summer conditions. Heavy panting, excessive drooling, or red gums may signal heatstroke. Before any procedure requiring anesthesia, such as surgery or dental scaling, always inform your veterinarian about the breed’s specific traits and insist on pre-anesthetic blood tests for safety. In the height of summer, schedule walks for early morning or late evening when the asphalt has cooled down.

Reviewed by a veterinarian

Dr. Tony — Punnawat Phongkittirak

Veterinarian

A veterinarian who majored in veterinary medicine at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, and completed the IVSA program at North Carolina State University in the United States. Drawing on clinical experience at animal hospitals, he works in the pet healthcare field and is dedicated to building a digital care environment that connects pet parents with veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chow Chow Health

Are Chow Chows particularly sensitive to heat?

Yes, their thick double coat restricts heat dissipation, making them particularly vulnerable to hot weather. During the summer, air conditioning, walks during cooler times of the day, and access to plenty of fresh water are essential. While a purplish tongue color is a normal breed trait, persistent heavy breathing should raise suspicion of heatstroke.

How can I prevent skin inflammation in the skin folds?

It’s most important to gently clean the folds daily with a soft cloth or pet-specific wipes and ensure they are completely dry so no moisture remains. If you notice redness, odor, or discharge, consult your veterinarian right away.

How early can hip dysplasia be detected?

Gait abnormalities can appear as early as the growth phase. Preliminary assessment via radiography is possible once growth has progressed to some extent, but a definitive diagnosis is confirmed after skeletal maturity through ventrodorsal (VD) radiographs and Norberg angle measurements. The earlier it is detected, the more effectively progression can be slowed through weight and exercise management.

Do Chow Chows really need to go for walks?

Yes, exercise is necessary, but the intensity is key. Prolonged stair climbing or running on hard surfaces places excessive stress on the joints. Consistent, low-intensity walks on flat ground and low-impact activities like swimming are ideal.