Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Chow Chow
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Chow Chow: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Agreeable0.6
Chow Chow: May be Stubborn0.2
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Chow Chow: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Luxury
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Chow Chow3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog3/5
Chow Chow2/5
Good with Strangers
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Chow Chow2/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Bloat: Serious digestive emergency
Eye Problems: Various hereditary issues
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Splenic Torsion: Emergency condition
Chow Chow
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Entropion: Eyelid rolls inward
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint issues
Thyroid Disease: Hormone imbalance
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap problems
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting
Pros & Cons Comparison
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Pros
Loyal and devoted to family
Excellent watchdog capabilities
Good with children
Strong and athletic
Low grooming needs
Cons
Heavy shedding seasonally
Not apartment-friendly
Can be stubborn
Expensive to feed
Short lifespan
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
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their massive size, these gentle giants were known as 'poor man's horse' in Swiss farming communities.
Chow Chow Fun Fact
The Chow Chow is one of few breeds naturally born with a blue-black tongue, a trait shared only with Shar-Peis.
Heritage & Purpose
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Origin:
Swiss farmers utilized these dogs in the Alps during the 1800s for drafting, herding, and guarding livestock. Their strength and versatility made them invaluable working companions.
Chow Chow
Origin:
Dating back to China's Han Dynasty, these dogs served as palace guardians and hunting companions. Their versatile nature made them valuable working dogs across Asia.
Special Considerations
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Needs early socialization and training. Regular exercise essential. Watch for signs of bloat and joint issues. Climate sensitivity in hot weather requires monitoring.
Chow Chow
Regular brushing essential for thick double coat. Moderate exercise needs but sensitive to heat. Early socialization crucial for balanced temperament.