When it comes to adorable and unique dog breeds, Chow Chows are often at the top of the list. With their fluffy coats, distinctive blue tongues, and bear-like appearance, Chow Chows are truly one-of-a-kind.

However, if you're a fan of Chow Chows but are looking for a different breed with similar characteristics, you're in luck! In this article, we'll explore 15 dogs that look like Chow Chows.

Let's dive in!

Characteristics Of a Chow Chow

Before we dive into the specific breeds that resemble Chow Chows, let's take a moment to understand the unique characteristics of these fluffy dogs.

Chow Chows are known for their lion-like manes, which give them a regal and majestic appearance. They have a sturdy build, a broad skull, and deep-set eyes that radiate intelligence and independence. With a thick double coat that comes in various colors, including red, black, blue, and cream, Chow Chows are undeniably eye-catching.

Apart from their physical appearance, Chow Chows have a distinct personality. They are known for being dignified, aloof, and independent.

Dogs That Look Like Chow Chows

Now that we have a better understanding of what makes Chow Chows unique, let's explore the breeds that resemble them.

1. Eurasier

First on the list, we have the Eurasier. It's a breed that shares many similarities with Chow Chows. Originating from Germany, these dogs have a thick double coat that comes in various colors, including red, fawn, black, and wolf-gray. With their fluffy tails that curl over their backs and their alert expressions, Eurasiers are often mistaken for Chow Chows.

2. Akita

Another breed that resembles Chow Chows is the Akita. Originating from Japan, Akitas are large and powerful dogs with thick double coats that come in various colors, including red, brindle, and white. With their broad heads, small eyes, and erect ears, Akitas share some physical similarities with Chow Chows. In terms of temperament, Akitas are known for their loyalty and protective nature. They are often reserved around strangers but are extremely devoted and affectionate towards their families. Akitas require firm and consistent training, as they can be independent and strong-willed.

3. Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetan Mastiffs are large and powerful dogs that resemble Chow Chows. Originating from Tibet, these dogs have a thick double coat that protects them from extreme weather conditions. Tibetan Mastiffs are known for their large heads, broad muzzles, and deep-set eyes, which give them a similar facial structure to Chow Chows. In terms of temperament, Tibetan Mastiffs are independent, strong-willed, and protective. They are naturally suspicious of strangers but are loyal and loving towards their families.

4. Samoyed

The Samoyed is a breed that shares some striking similarities with Chow Chows. With their fluffy white coats, wedge-shaped heads, and dark almond-shaped eyes, Samoyeds have a similar appearance to Chow Chows. However, unlike Chow Chows, Samoyeds have a friendly and sociable temperament. They are known for their outgoing and playful nature, making them excellent family pets.

5. Finnish Lapphund

Originating from Finland, these dogs have a thick double coat that comes in various colors, including black, cream, and brown. Finnish Lapphunds have a similar facial structure to Chow Chows, with their broad skulls, dark eyes, and erect ears. In terms of temperament, Finnish Lapphunds are friendly, gentle, and adaptable. Finnish Lapphunds require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.

6. Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees is a majestic breed that is often mistaken for a Chow Chow at first glance. Unlike Chow Chows, Great Pyrenees have a larger size and a more robust bone structure. They have a white or cream-colored coat and beautiful dark eyes that exude warmth and kindness. Great Pyrenees are natural protectors and will go to great lengths to keep their loved ones safe.

7. Keeshond

With their thick, plush coats and fox-like faces, Keeshonds share a striking resemblance to Chow Chows. These medium-sized dogs are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them ideal companions for families and individuals alike. Originally bred as barge dogs in the Netherlands, Keeshonds are highly adaptable and thrive in various living environments.

8. Shiba Inu

These small to medium-sized dogs have a fox-like appearance and are known for their spirited and independent personalities. Originating from Japan, Shiba Inus are one of the oldest and smallest native breeds in the country. Although Shiba Inus have a similar fluffy and dense coat like Chow Chows, their coloring is often different.

9. Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute is a breed that shares some physical traits with Chow Chows, particularly in terms of their dense double coat and sturdy build. These large and powerful dogs were originally bred for sled pulling and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Alaskan Malamutes are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them great family pets.

10. Leonberger

If you're searching for a dog that closely resembles a Chow Chow in both appearance and size, look no further than the Leonberger. These gentle giants have a thick and dense coat, which gives them a striking resemblance to Chow Chows. Originally bred in Germany as working dogs, Leonbergers are known for their calm and gentle nature, making them excellent family pets.

11. Tibetan Spaniel

The Tibetan Spaniel is often mistaken for a Chow Chow due to its similar appearance, particularly its face and coat. These small to medium-sized dogs have a thick, luxurious double coat that can be various shades of red, black, or cream. They have a broad head and a short muzzle, resembling the Chow Chow's facial structure. Tibetan Spaniels are known for their alert and friendly nature. They make great companions and are particularly fond of their families.

12. Newfoundland

The Newfoundland is a large breed known for its gentle and friendly demeanor. While their size may differ from that of a Chow Chow, their thick double coat and facial features are similar. Newfoundlands have a broad head and a short muzzle, much like Chow Chows. Their coat can be black, brown, gray, or landseer (white with black markings). Despite their imposing size, Newfoundlands are known to be sweet and patient, making them excellent family pets.

13. Chow-Husky Mix (Chusky)

A crossbreed between a Chow Chow and a Siberian Husky, the Chusky inherits the striking appearance of both parent breeds. Chuskies often have the characteristic Chow Chow double coat, which can be a combination of colors such as black, cream, or red. They also inherit the Husky's bright blue or multicolored eyes. Chuskies are known for their intelligence and playful nature. However, they require proper training and socialization to ensure they grow into well-behaved companions.

14. Caucasian Shepherd

The Caucasian Shepherd, hails from Georgia and boasts a striking appearance with its medium to large build and a dense double coat showcasing hues of red, black, or cream. Resembling Chow Chows with their broad head and short muzzle, these majestic creatures exude a calm and gentle demeanor, ideal for family companionship.

15. Finnish Spitz

The Finnish Spitz is a medium-sized breed that shares some physical characteristics with the Chow Chow. They have a dense double coat that comes in various shades of red or honey-colored. Finnish Spitz dogs have a broad head and a short muzzle, similar to Chow Chows. They are known for their lively and alert nature, making them excellent watchdogs. Finnish Spitz dogs are also highly intelligent and require mental stimulation to prevent boredom.

The Bottom Line

So there you have it, from the Eurasier, Akita, Tibetan Mastiff, Samoyed, and Finnish Lapphund these are just a few of the chow chow lookalike dogs. These breeds not only resemble Chow Chows in appearance but also possess unique personalities and temperaments that make them wonderful companions. Ciao! (Bye in Italian pronounced Chow).

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