Chow Chow vs Pomeranian
Everything we know about the Chow Chow and the Pomeranian, in the same order for both. Every figure comes from our own breed guides — follow the links under each column to read the detail.
| Trait | Chow Chow | Pomeranian |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 46–56 cm (18–22 in) | 15–18 cm (6–7 in) |
| Weight | 20–32 kg (45–70 lb) | 1.4–3.2 kg (3–7 lb) |
| Lifespan | 8–12 years | 12–16 years |
| Coat | Dense double coat, lion-like mane; rough or smooth | Long, double, with a dense undercoat |
| Shedding | Heavy — year-round, with two big seasonal moults | High — noticeable year-round, heavy when the coat blows |
| Grooming | Brushing several times a week; daily during a moult | Brush several times a week, daily during a moult; bath every 3–4 weeks |
| Exercise | 30–60 min/day, split across two walks | 30–45 min/day |
| Good with | Older children who respect its space; other pets with early socialisation | Older children, other dogs and cats with proper introduction |
Which one suits you
Chow Chow
Right for you if…
- You want a calm, dignified dog rather than a demonstrative one
- You are home enough to build the bond — Chows attach to one or two people
- You will brush several times a week, and daily when the coat blows
- You have space and a secure garden rather than a busy flat
Wrong for you if…
- This is your first dog — an aloof, independent breed is a hard place to start
- You want a dog that greets visitors warmly; Chows are reserved with strangers
- You live somewhere hot — that thick coat makes Chows overheat easily
- Nobody at home will do early, consistent socialisation
Pomeranian
Right for you if…
- You live in a flat and want a dog that genuinely fits one
- You want an alert, characterful little dog rather than a quiet lap-warmer
- You will brush several times a week, and daily when the coat blows
- You can live with a dog that barks at things you cannot see
- You want a small breed that still tends to live 12–16 years
Wrong for you if…
- You have a toddler — a 3 lb dog is easily hurt by rough play
- You need a quiet dog, or you share thin walls with neighbours
- You want a coat you can ignore between grooms
- You want a dog that shrugs off being left alone all day
- You dislike hair on dark clothes and furniture