Chow Chow profileThe Chow Chow is a medium-sized Non-Sporting dog originally from China, typically weighing 20–32 kg with a double-coated coat. Being a laid-back dog, a Chow Chow needs a jacket matched to its actual build and coat — not a one-size-fits-all pick. This guide covers what to look for in a jacket for a Chow Chow, then links filtered picks that match the breed's frame.
The Chow Chow has a thick double coat designed for cold weather — usually no jacket needed except in driving rain (when a light waterproof shell stops the chill, not the cold).
What to look for in a Chow Chow jacket
- Light waterproof shell only. Don't insulate — your Chow Chow will overheat. A thin "raincoat" is enough.
- Reflective trim — combined with reflective collar/harness, this is your dog's "visibility kit" for dark winter walks.
- Machine washable. Muddy walks mean weekly washes.
- Measure your dog — across the back (neck base to tail base) is the canonical sizing. Brand sizes vary wildly.
Picks for Chow Chow
When to put the coat on
Rough rules of thumb for the Chow Chow: under 10 °C + wet → coat on; under 5 °C → coat on regardless; over 12 °C → no coat unless old or sick. Watch for shivering — that's the unambiguous signal you waited too long.
Jacket for a Chow Chow: common questions
What size jacket does a Chow Chow need?
Chow Chows typically weigh 20–32 kg, which puts them in the medium-sized range, so start with a jacket sized for that band. Sizing varies between brands and individual Chow Chows differ, so measure your own dog and check the maker's size chart before buying.
What should I look for in a jacket for a Chow Chow?
The Chow Chow is a laid-back breed, so comfort and easy cleaning usually matter more than heavy-duty ruggedness when choosing a jacket. Above all, match the jacket to this breed's actual build rather than buying generic.
Does the Chow Chow's joint risk change which jacket to buy?
It can. Chow Chows are prone to hip or elbow problems, so favour a jacket that supports rather than strains the joints and keeps daily movement easy as they age.
