Chow Chow vs. Leonberger: Breed Differences and Similarities

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Chow Chow or Leonberger?

4 / 5

Both the Chow Chow and Leonberger breeds have an average to high tendency to gain weight if their weight is not closely monitored. It is important to maintain a balance between exercise and food intake to keep them at a healthy weight. This can be achieved by scheduling at least one daily walk and engaging in regular playtime with them.

Hypoallergenic

Are Chow Chows or Leonbergers hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Chow Chow nor Leonberger are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Chow Chow and Leonberger dogs?

Aloof
Loyal
Intelligent
Detached
Independent
Quiet
Protective

Adaptable
Fearless
Loyal
Companionable
Loving
Obedient

Shedding Level

Do Chow Chows shed more than Leonbergers, or which breed sheds more, Chow Chows or Leonbergers?

4 / 5

Chow Chows are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

5 / 5

Leonbergers shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Chow Chow or Leonberger?

3 / 5

Chow Chows are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

5 / 5

Choose a Leonberger if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

Origin

What is the origin of Chow Chow and Leonberger dog breeds?

China

Germany

Ancestry

What are the origins of Chow Chow and Leonberger breeds?

Tibetan Mastiff

newfoundland, long haired saint bernard, pyrenean mountain dog

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Chow Chow and Leonberger?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club

Date of Birth

When were Chow Chow and Leonberger breeds first developed?

Ancient Times

1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Chow Chow and Leonberger?

Non Sporting (AKC:1903)
Northern Breeds (UKC)

Working (AKC:2010)
Guardian Dogs (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Chow Chow and Leonberger dogs?

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Chow Chow and Leonberger?

Black

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Chow Chow and Leonberger breeds?

Black
Red
Fawn
Cream
Blue

Black
Gray
Brown
Red
Cream
Sable
Brindle

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Chow Chow and Leonberger breeds?

4 / 5

Chow Chows have longer coats compared to most dogs.

3 / 5

Leonbergers have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Chow Chow and Leonberger?

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Chow Chow and Leonberger?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Chow Chow and Leonberger?

A Chow Chow can have a litter of 13-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Leonberger can have a litter of 8-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

2 / 5

Chow Chows may have difficulty adjusting to changes in lifestyle and living environments, preferring consistency.

3 / 5

Leonbergers have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

Health Issues

Between Chow Chow and Leonberger, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

While the Chow Chow breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

2 / 5

Leonbergers are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Chow Chow and Leonberger breeds?

Entropion
Hip Dysplasia

Hip Dysplasia
Eye Problems

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Chow Chow and Leonberger?

Stenotic Nares
Patellar Luxation
Distichiasis
Gastric Torsion
Elbow Dysplasia
Cataract
Elongated Palate
Persistent Pupillary Membrane

Laryngeal Paralysis
Inherited Leonberger Polyneuropathy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Chow Chow and Leonberger breeds?

Eye
Hip
Elbow
Hip X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Hip X-Rays
Eyes
Hips
Skeletal
Physical Examination
Throat

Energy

How do the energy levels of Chow Chows and Leonbergers compare?

2 / 5

Chow Chows are a good choice for a low-key lifestyle due to their low energy levels.

4 / 5

Leonbergers' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Social Needs

Chow Chow vs Leonberger social needs comparison

2 / 5

Chow Chow has below average social needs and is content with spending time alone.

5 / 5

Leonberger has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Exercise Needed

Chow Chow vs Leonberger exercise need comparison.

2 / 5

Chow Chows need only a small amount of physical activity, ideal for busy or elderly people or those with limited space.

4 / 5

Leonbergers require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Chow Chow or Leonberger?

4 / 5

Chow Chows are known for their relaxed and calm nature and enjoy long periods of sleep.

2 / 5

Leonbergers sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Chow Chow or Leonberger?

3 / 5

The Chow Chow and Leonberger breeds are known to be average droolers among dog breeds. Drooling is the unintentional flow of saliva outside of the mouth and can be a normal characteristic of certain breeds or a sign of a health problem. In the case of these breeds, it is a normal part of their physiology, but it is important to keep an eye on the amount of drooling and any changes in drooling patterns, as excessive drooling can be an indication of an underlying health issue and should be checked by a veterinarian.

Tendency to Bark

Do Chow Chows or Leonbergers bark more/less frequently?

1 / 5

Chow Chow and Leonbergers are known to bark very little or not at all. They tend to be very quiet and do not bark excessively. They may only bark in specific situations, such as when they need to alert their owner to something important or when they are in distress.

Territorial

Is the Chow Chow or Leonberger a better guard dog?

3 / 5

While Chow Chow dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

5 / 5

Leonberger dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Chow Chow vs Leonberger?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Roaming urge

Chow Chow vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

2 / 5

Prey Drive

Chow Chow or Leonberger - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

2 / 5

4 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Chow Chows or Leonbergers?

Both Chow Chow and Leonberger are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

4 / 5

1 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Chow Chow or Leonberger walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Chow Chow, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Leonberger, it's at least 15 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Chow Chows or Leonbergers require more exercise?

In general most Chow Chows usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Leonbergers usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Chow Chows or Leonbergers?

5 / 5

Chow Chows have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.

3 / 5

The Leonberger requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Chow Chow and Leonberger dogs?

Chow Chow and Leonberger should be brushed at least once a week. Of course, you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Chow Chows and Leonbergers?

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Chow Chow or Leonberger in cups?

For an average 45-70 pound (20 - 32 kg) Chow Chow feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 120-170 pound (54 - 77 kg) Leonberger feed 4.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Chow Chow or Leonberger?

The average cost of a Chow Chow is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

The average cost of a Leonberger is somewhere $4.20 - $4.90 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Chow Chow or Leonberger?

The average per month expenses of a Chow Chow is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of a Leonberger is between $126 - $147. This makes an average of $1512 - $1764 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Chow Chows vs Leonbergers

1 / 5

Chow Chow is an independent and stubborn breed with low obedience intelligence, making training a test of patience.

3 / 5

Leonbergers are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Sensitivity Level

How do Chow Chow and Leonberger compare in sensitivity?

2 / 5

Chow Chows are adaptable and resilient, making them ideal for those seeking a less sensitive pet.

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Chow Chow vs Leonberger?

2 / 5

5 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Chow Chow or Leonberger?

3 / 5

Chow Chows are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

1 / 5

The Leonberger is not suitable for apartments and requires a large yard to thrive. Pent-up energy in small spaces can lead to destructive behavior.

Child Friendly

Do Chow Chows or Leonbergers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

2 / 5

Chow Chows are not the best choice for families with kids.

5 / 5

Leonbergers make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Chow Chow or Leonberger?

2 / 5

5 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Chow Chow or Leonberger breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

2 / 5

Chow Chows are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

3 / 5

Leonbergers are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Chow Chow or Leonberger?

1 / 5

Chow Chows are not dog-friendly.

4 / 5

Leonbergers are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Pet friendly

How do Chow Chow or Leonberger dogs interact with other pets?

2 / 5

3 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Chow Chow or Leonberger?

1 / 5

Chow Chows are not very stranger friendly.

3 / 5

Leonbergers are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Chow Chow and Leonberger?

2 / 5

Chow Chows are not known for being a highly playful breed.

4 / 5

Leonbergers are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Chow Chows and Leonbergers compare?

2 / 5

Chow Chows may require more time and patience to learn commands, but with consistency, they can be trained.

3 / 5

Leonbergers are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.