Comparison: Chow Chow and Tibetan Mastiff

Chow Chow and Tibetan Mastiff are marked as similar in our database. The table compares only the data we have on the breeds.

Chow Chow
Photo: Luigi Borromeo, CC BY 2.0, source
Tibetan Mastiff
Photo: w:user:Sasni, CC BY-SA 3.0, source
Chow ChowTibetan Mastiff
FCI group5. Spitz and primitive types2. Pinscher and Schnauzer, Molossoid breeds, Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs
Country of originChinaChina
CategoryLargeGiant
Height at withers46–56 cm61–71 cm
Weight20–32 kg45–70 kg
Life span9–12 years10–12 years
Recognition features
  • Blue-black tongue
  • Lion-like mane and thick plush coat
  • Stocky build and short square muzzle
  • Very dense coat with a lion-like mane
  • Heavy head and tail curled over the back
  • Black, brown, gold or blue-grey
CoatDense straight outer coat (smooth or rough); red, black, blue, cream.Long dense coat with undercoat and mane.
PurposeAn ancient Chinese dog used for hunting, hauling and guarding, also for meat and fur; the blue tongue is a hallmark.A livestock guardian from the Tibetan plateau that protected monasteries and flocks from predators.

Breed page: Chow Chow · Breed page: Tibetan Mastiff

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The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard.