Chow Chow vs Saluki

Non-Sporting · Medium vs Hound · Large

Quick take
  • Chow Chow is the larger breed at 45–70 lbs (males) vs 40–65 lbs for the Saluki.
  • The Saluki typically lives longer (10–17 years).
  • The Saluki has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Saluki sheds less.
  • The Saluki is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitChow ChowSaluki
Group
Non-SportingHound
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
ChinaEgypt
Height (male)
17–20"23–28"
Height (female)
17–20"23–28"
Weight (male)
45–70 lbs40–65 lbs
Weight (female)
45–70 lbs40–65 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
8–12 years10–17 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longmedium
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 Saluki

The Saluki is a graceful, dignified, gentle Persian sighthound — one of the world's oldest breeds, depicted on Egyptian tombs. Originally from Egypt, this large hound breed typically weighs 40–65 lbs and lives 10–17 years. Breeders describe them as graceful, dignified, gentle.

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Chow Chow health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Skin issues
  • Bloat

Saluki health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Heart disease
  • Cancer
  • Anesthesia sensitivity