The Chow Chow is a member of the spitz family and has been native to China for more than 2000 years. He is a masterpiece of beauty and dignity, unique in his blue-black tongue. Chows carry a reputation of been aggressive, but this is undeserved though he is a tenacious fighter if provoked. To their owners and family they are friendly and faithful but strangers beware, making him an excellent guard dog. Because of his thick coat he is unsuited for hot climates. New owners should be prepared for coat care and socialization of their new Chow puppy. He should not be left alone in the backyard.