The Pitbull Chow Chow mix, commonly known as Chowpit, is a unique designer breed resulting from crossing an American Pitbull Terrier with a Chow Chow. This medium to large-sized hybrid inherits distinct physical and temperamental traits from both parent breeds. With a lifespan of 10-15 years, Chowpits typically display a strong, muscular build with varying coat types. While they can be loyal and affectionate companions, they often exhibit a complex personality combining the Pitbull's playfulness with the Chow Chow's protective nature. These dogs require experienced owners who can provide consistent training and proper socialization from an early age.
Pit Bull Chow Chow Mix Physical Characteristics
Distinctive Features
The Chowpit exhibits a strong, stocky and muscular build inherited primarily from its American Pit Bull parent. These medium to large dogs have wide, powerful jaws and typically stand lower to the ground despite their heavy build. Notable physical traits include:
- Muzzle of medium length with a black nose
- Webbed, sturdy feet (from Chow Chow genetics)
- Tail either straight or slightly curved over the back
- Dark, alert eyes reflecting intelligence
- Coat texture and length varies but often resembles the Pit Bull parent's shorter coat
Living Environment Requirements
The Pitchow requires specific living conditions to thrive. Key environmental needs include:
- Adult-oriented household without young children due to their size and strength
- Active home environment with engaged owners
- Structured training setup for ongoing obedience work
- Proper socialization spaces to interact with other dogs and people
- Secure fencing and outdoor areas for exercise
- Regular opportunities for mental stimulation and physical activity
The living space should accommodate their muscular build while providing enough room for movement and training activities. Their strong personality and protective nature mean they need an environment where they can be properly managed by experienced owners who understand the breed's specific requirements.
Pit Bull Chow Chow Mix Physical Characteristics
Size and Weight Specifications
While previous sections covered general physical features, this section provides specific measurements:
- Height range: 17-20 inches at shoulder
- Weight range: 30-70 pounds
- Build: Dense, heavy-set frame
- Chest: Deep and broad
- Neck: Thick and muscular
- Body length: Slightly longer than height
Coat Variations and Colors
The Chowpit can inherit diverse coat characteristics from both parent breeds:
Common coat colors:
- Solid colors: Black, brown, red, fawn
- Mixed patterns: Brindle, spotted, or patched
- Bi-colored combinations with white markings
Coat types may vary between individuals:
- Straight and short (Pit Bull influence)
- Thick and moderately long (Chow influence)
- Double-coated varieties possible
- Texture ranges from smooth to slightly rough
The coat density and length typically depend on which parent breed's genes are more dominant. Seasonal shedding patterns vary based on the inherited coat type, with double-coated varieties experiencing heavier shedding during season changes.
Pit Bull Chow Chow Mix Temperament and Training Requirements
Personality Traits and Socialization
The Pitchow exhibits a complex temperament combining traits from both parent breeds. While previous sections covered physical characteristics, this section focuses specifically on behavioral tendencies:
- Reserved yet affectionate with family members
- Alert and protective instincts from Chow Chow lineage
- Can be uncomfortable or aloof with strangers
- Requires extensive early socialization
- Strong-willed and independent nature
- Intelligence levels suitable for advanced training
Advanced Training Protocols
The Chowpit requires specific training approaches beyond basic obedience:
Training requirements:
- Multiple levels of obedience training recommended
- Continuous training through various developmental stages
- Strong leadership establishment essential
- Positive reinforcement techniques work best
- Focus on:
- Impulse control exercises
- Boundary setting
- Social interaction skills
- Command response consistency
Training should begin early and continue throughout the dog's life to manage their strong personality effectively. Unlike breeds that may require only basic training, these dogs need ongoing advanced training protocols to ensure proper behavioral development and social integration.
Pit Bull Chow Chow Mix Health and Care Needs
Genetic Health Considerations
The Pitchow inherits health predispositions from both parent breeds that require specific monitoring:
Typical lifespan: 10-15 years
Common health concerns:
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Eye problems including entropion
- Skin allergies and infections
- Heart conditions
- Thyroid issues
While previous sections covered physical traits, this section focuses specifically on healthcare needs and preventive measures required for this mixed breed.
Family Integration Guidelines
The Chowpit requires careful consideration for successful family integration, beyond the basic temperament traits covered in previous sections:
Key integration factors:
- Best suited for experienced dog owners
- Not recommended for homes with small children
- Requires owners with strong, confident personalities
- Benefits from:
- Structured daily routines
- Clear hierarchy establishment
- Consistent rules and boundaries
- Regular veterinary monitoring
- Scheduled exercise sessions
- Proper diet management
These guidelines focus specifically on creating optimal conditions for the mix breed's wellbeing within the family unit, complementing but not overlapping with previous temperament discussions.
Conclusion
The Pit Bull Chow Chow mix (also known as Chowpit or Pitchow) is a distinctive hybrid breed combining physical and temperamental traits from both parent breeds. This medium to large-sized dog typically weighs 30-70 pounds and exhibits a strong, muscular build with a varied coat that can range from short to moderately long. While intelligent and affectionate with family, these dogs require experienced owners due to their strong-willed nature and need for extensive training and socialization.
The research highlights several critical considerations for potential owners. This mix breed requires ongoing advanced training, proper socialization, and a structured home environment without young children. They have specific health predispositions including hip dysplasia and skin conditions that need regular monitoring, with a typical lifespan of 10-15 years. For successful ownership, prospective families should carefully evaluate their ability to provide the necessary training, exercise, and healthcare management these dogs require, as well as ensure they can offer appropriate living conditions and experienced handling.