Miniature American Shepherd vs Chow Chow
Breed Compatibility
68% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Chow Chow: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Chow Chow: May be Stubborn0.2
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Chow Chow: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Chow Chow3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Chow Chow2/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Chow Chow2/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
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
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
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
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
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
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
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
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Chow Chow
Regular brushing essential for thick double coat. Moderate exercise needs but sensitive to heat. Early socialization crucial for balanced temperament.