If you're looking for a pet that is not only majestic and loyal but also has a striking appearance, then the black Chow Chow might be the perfect choice for you. Also known as Black Lions or Shadow Dogs, these amazing animals have captured the hearts of many dog enthusiasts. But before you bring one home, there are a few things you should know. In this article, HowPetCare will dig into the world of black Chow Chows, including their price and what to consider before making a purchase.
Why is my Chow Chow black?
Chow Chows come in various colors, including black, red, blue, fawn, white, or cream. The black coloration of a Chow Chow can be attributed to two main reasons:
- Breeders specifically choose to breed black Chow Chows because of their popularity in the market.
- Genetic variations within the litter can result in some Chow Chow puppies being black. This may not be immediately evident without a DNA test.
It's important to note that buying any form of Merle Chow Chow is strongly discouraged due to their potential health issues and the negative impact it can have on their bloodline.
What is the general appearance of a black Chow Chow?
As the name suggests, black Chow Chows have a predominantly black coat. However, there may be a slight tinge of grey within their fur. What's truly fascinating is that their mouth, gums, and lip edges are also black! According to both the UK Kennel Club and US Kennel Club, these grey tinges are acceptable and do not indicate any health problems.
How much does a black Chow Chow typically cost?
The price of a black Chow Chow can vary depending on your location. In Great Britain, you can expect to pay around £1,850-£2,250, while in the United States, prices range from $2,250-$2,700. Keep in mind that these figures are approximate and may vary.
Before purchasing a Chow Chow, it's crucial to perform some basic checks on the breeder to ensure you are getting a healthy dog. This will save you time, money, and potential heartbreak in the future.
Ensure they are KC registered
If the Chow Chow is Kennel Club registered (KC), it means that their breeding and care have met the strict guidelines set by the KC. This registration provides reassurance regarding the dog's quality and lineage.
Word-of-mouth references
Speaking to other Chow Chow owners can provide valuable insights into reputable breeders. By getting recommendations from trusted sources, you can ensure that there are no health issues within the bloodline or litter.
CHS hip & elbow scoring from the breeder’s parents
Hip scoring is performed on the parents when they reach 12 months of age. It involves a simple sedation and an X-ray to assess their hip health. The X-rays are then scored against the Hip Dysplasia Scheme for dogs. In the case of Chow Chows, a low and equal score on both hips (seven being the highest recommended score) is desirable for breeding.
Elbow scoring follows a similar process. Again, it is done at 12 months of age with sedation and an X-ray. The results are then scored against the Elbow Dysplasia Scheme, with a score of 0 indicating normal elbows.
CHS Hereditary eye examination certificate results
Regular eye examinations are crucial to determine if a black Chow Chow has any existing or potential eye conditions. These examinations are typically conducted at five and 12 weeks old by an expert BVA-appointed eye panellist. A “Clinically Unaffected” result indicates that the dog does not have any eye conditions.
Puppy endorsement by the breeder (controversial)
Breeders often provide endorsements when registering puppies with the KC. These endorsements prevent the future breeding of the puppies, ensuring that they are not exploited or used for unethical purposes. It is important to review the requirements and details of the endorsement in the sales agreement provided by the breeder.
Puppy sale agreement/contract provided
Before taking ownership of your Chow Chow, make sure to obtain a signed sales agreement or contract. This document protects both you and the breeder, outlining the terms and conditions of the purchase. Take the time to thoroughly read and understand it before signing.
Black Chow Chows are not only visually stunning but also make excellent companions when properly trained and socialized with other dogs, humans, and pets. If you're considering adding one to your family, remember to do your research and ensure you find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.
Keys to take away:
- Black Chow Chows are majestic and loyal pets.
- The black coloration can result from breeding choices or genetic variations.
- Their appearance includes a predominantly black coat with occasional grey tinges.
- The cost of a black Chow Chow varies but typically ranges from £1,850-£2,250 in Great Britain and $2,250-$2,700 in the United States.
- When buying a Chow Chow, ensure they are KC registered and gather word-of-mouth references from other owners.
- Check the CHS hip & elbow scores, hereditary eye examination results, and any puppy endorsements from the breeder.
- Obtain a puppy sale agreement/contract to protect both parties involved.
For more information on black Chow Chows and other pet care topics, visit HowPetCare.