Chow Chow Lifespan: How Long Do They Live?

Everything you need to know about the Chow Chow's life expectancy, factors that affect longevity, and tips to help your dog live a longer, healthier life.

Average Lifespan

8–12 years

Size Category

Medium

Compared to Average

Below average

Chow Chow Life Expectancy

The Chow Chow has an average lifespan of 8 to 12 years, which is below average for dogs of their size category. As of 2026, advances in veterinary medicine and improved nutrition have helped many Chow Chows reach the upper end of this range and beyond.

Several factors influence an individual Chow Chow's lifespan, including genetics, diet, exercise, veterinary care, and overall lifestyle. Dogs from health-tested parents who receive consistent preventive care tend to live the longest, healthiest lives.

Lifespan Range Visualization

5 years20 years

Lifespan by Gender

Male	8–12 years
Female	8.5–12.5 years

Factors That Affect Chow Chow Lifespan

Key factors that affect Chow Chow lifespan include:

Genetics: Dogs from health-tested breeding lines have better odds of a long life
Diet: A balanced, high-quality diet appropriate for their life stage
Exercise: Regular physical activity maintains cardiovascular health and healthy weight
Veterinary care: Annual checkups and preventive treatments catch issues early
Weight management: Keeping your Chow Chow at a healthy weight can add 1-2 years to their life
Dental care: Good oral hygiene prevents infections that can affect overall health

Tips to Help Your Chow Chow Live Longer

To help your Chow Chow live their longest, healthiest life:

Feed a high-quality diet and measure portions to prevent obesity
Provide 60+ minutes of daily exercise
Keep up with all vaccinations and parasite prevention
Schedule annual veterinary checkups (twice yearly for seniors)
Brush teeth regularly or provide dental chews
Maintain mental stimulation with training, puzzles, and social interaction
Address health concerns promptly rather than waiting

Lifespan Compared to Similar Breeds

Breed	Lifespan	Size
Barbet	12–14 yrs	Medium
Field Spaniel	12–13 yrs	Medium
Pumi	12–13 yrs	Medium
Braque du Bourbonnais	13–15 yrs	Medium
Berger Picard	12–13 yrs	Medium

Frequently Asked Questions

The Chow Chow typically lives within the normal range for their size category. Individual lifespan depends on genetics, diet, exercise, and veterinary care.

Regular veterinary checkups, a balanced diet, daily exercise, mental stimulation, and preventive healthcare all contribute to a longer, healthier life for your Chow Chow.

While specific records vary, some Chow Chows have been reported to live well beyond their average lifespan with exceptional care and favorable genetics.

Studies suggest minimal difference between male and female Chow Chow lifespans, though spayed/neutered dogs may have slightly longer life expectancies.

Research in 2026 suggests that spaying or neutering can slightly increase lifespan by reducing certain cancer risks, though timing should be discussed with your veterinarian.