Chow Chow vs Miniature Poodle

Non-Sporting · Medium vs Non-Sporting · Small

Quick take
  • Chow Chow is the larger breed at 45–70 lbs (males) vs 10–15 lbs for the Miniature Poodle.
  • The Miniature Poodle typically lives longer (10–18 years).
  • The Miniature Poodle has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Miniature Poodle sheds less.
  • The Miniature Poodle is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitChow ChowMiniature Poodle
Group
Non-SportingNon-Sporting
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
ChinaGermany
Height (male)
17–20"11–15"
Height (female)
17–20"11–15"
Weight (male)
45–70 lbs10–15 lbs
Weight (female)
45–70 lbs10–15 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
8–12 years10–18 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
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)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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 Miniature Poodle

The Miniature Poodle is an active, proud, very smart smaller version of the Standard Poodle — circus star of yesteryear. Originally from Germany, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 10–15 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as active, proud, very smart.

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Chow Chow health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Skin issues
  • Bloat

Miniature Poodle health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Epilepsy
  • Legg-Calve-Perthes