Chow Chow vs German Shorthaired Pointer

Non-Sporting · Medium vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • The German Shorthaired Pointer typically lives longer (10–12 years).
  • The German Shorthaired Pointer has higher daily energy needs.
  • The German Shorthaired Pointer is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitChow ChowGerman Shorthaired Pointer
Group
Non-SportingSporting
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
ChinaGermany
Height (male)
17–20"23–25"
Height (female)
17–20"21–23"
Weight (male)
45–70 lbs55–70 lbs
Weight (female)
45–70 lbs45–60 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
8–12 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Chow Chow

The Chow Chow is a dignified, bright, serious-minded ancient Chinese breed with a famous purple-blue tongue. Originally from China, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 45–70 lbs and lives 8–12 years. Breeders describe them as dignified, bright, serious-minded.

About the German Shorthaired Pointer

The German Shorthaired Pointer is a friendly, smart, willing-to-please all-around hunting and family dog with a liver-spotted coat. Originally from Germany, this large sporting breed typically weighs 55–70 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, smart, willing to please.

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Chow Chow health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Skin issues
  • Bloat

German Shorthaired Pointer health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Eye conditions
  • Lymphedema