Chow Chow vs Airedale Terrier
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Chow Chow
Non-Sporting Group
Airedale Terrier
Terrier Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Chow Chow Overview
Majestic and powerful, the Chow Chow boasts a distinctive lion-like mane and unique blue-black tongue. Their sturdy build, deep-set eyes, and thick double coat create an impressive presence. Standing proudly with a characteristic scowling expression, these ancient dogs combine strength with remarkable agility. Their aloof demeanor and dignified bearing reflect their noble heritage as guardians and companions.
Airedale Terrier Overview
Airedale Terriers stand as the largest of all terrier breeds, featuring a distinctive wiry black and tan coat with a noble, square-built frame. Their muscular build combines strength with agility, while their alert expression and beard-like facial furnishings create an intelligent, characterful appearance. Known for their versatile abilities, these dogs display a perfect balance of power and grace in their movement.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Chow Chows are less energetic than Airedale Terriers, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Chow Chows require less grooming attention compared to Airedale Terriers.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Chow Chows tend to be more reserved with strangers than Airedale Terriers.
- Trainability: Chow Chows may be slightly easier to train due to their Chow Chow's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Airedale Terriers adapt better to apartment living, while Chow Chows typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Chow Chow and Airedale Terrier, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Chow Chow | Airedale Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 8-12 years | 11-14 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | England |
| Breed Group | Non-Sporting Group | Terrier Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Chow Chow | Airedale Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 17-20 inches 43-51 cm | 23-23 inches 58-58 cm |
| Weight | 45-70 lbs 20-32 kg | 50-70 lbs 23-32 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Seasonal | Occasional |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Chow Chow | Airedale Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Dignified, Bright, Serious-Minded | Friendly, Clever, Courageous |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Chow Chow | Airedale Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Chow Chow Temperament
The Chow Chow is known for being dignified, bright, serious-minded, making them better suited for homes without young children. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to different lifestyles, though they still need regular exercise.
Airedale Terrier Temperament
The Airedale Terrier is characterized by being friendly, clever, courageous, which makes them better for households without small children. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They're naturally cautious around strangers, which enhances their ability to serve as watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them versatile companions that can adapt to your activity level, though regular exercise is still important.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Chow Chow and Airedale Terrier, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Chow Chow
Rating: 3/5
Airedale Terrier
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Chow Chow
Rating: 2/5
Airedale Terrier
Rating: 3/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Chow Chow
Rating: 3/5
Airedale Terrier
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Chow Chow
Rating: 2/5
Airedale Terrier
Rating: 1/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Chow Chow
Rating: 4/5
Airedale Terrier
Rating: 4/5
Care & Maintenance
Chow Chow Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Chow Chows require moderate daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Chow Chows require frequent grooming. This includes brushing several times per week to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is recommended.
Airedale Terrier Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Airedale Terriers need regular daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Airedale Terriers require significant grooming attention. This includes brushing several times per week to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is typically necessary.
Health & Lifespan
Chow Chow Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Entropion
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Thyroid Disease
- Patellar Luxation
Airedale Terrier Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Skin Allergies
- Heart Issues
- Hypothyroidism
Pros & Cons
Chow Chow
Pros
- Loyal to family
- Clean and cat-like
- Excellent guard dog
- Minimal barking
- Independent nature
Cons
- Stubborn personality
- Challenging to train
- Heavy shedding
- Aloof with strangers
- Requires regular grooming
Airedale Terrier
Pros
- Intelligent and trainable
- Excellent watchdog
- Low shedding
- Versatile working ability
- Good with families
Cons
- Requires regular grooming
- Can be stubborn
- High exercise needs
- May chase small animals
- Strong prey drive
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Chow Chow and Airedale Terrier, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.