Chow Chow vs English Setter
A side-by-side comparison to help you find the right breed for your lifestyle.
Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is an ancient dog breed from China known for its distinctive lion-like mane, deep-set eyes, and unique blue-black tongue. Renowned for their aloof yet loyal nature, these dignified dogs often exhibit a strong sense of independence and a protective demeanor.
Large
Low
8-12 yrs
43-51 cm
English Setter
Also known as: Laverack Setter, Llewellin Setter
The English Setter is a graceful and elegant gun dog known for its distinctive feathered coat and gentle demeanor. Often called the 'gentleman of the dog world,' they combine athletic prowess with a sweet, affectionate temperament that makes them exceptional family companions for active households.
Large
High
11-13 yrs
61-69 cm
Quick Comparison
| Trait | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming Needs | ||
| Family Friendly | ||
| Independence |
Key Characteristics
| Good with Kids | ||
| Good with Dogs | ||
| Good with Cats | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Apartment Friendly | ||
| First-Time Owner OK |
| Detail | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Large |
| Energy Level | Low | High |
| Grooming | High | High |
| Trainability | challenging | Moderate |
| Barking Level | Low | Medium |
| Shedding Level | High | High |
| Chew strength | Hard | Moderate |
| Housing | Apartment | Yard |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Experienced | Intermediate |
| First-Time Owner | ||
| Ideal Owner | Active individual or family who can provide adequate exercise and training for a Chow Chow. | Hikers, runners, hunters, or active families with a large fenced yard. Someone who works from home or can provide companionship. Understanding they are getting a hunting dog, not a couch ornament. |
Chow Chow Dealbreakers
- Cannot meet 45-65 min daily exercise
- Cannot tolerate heavy shedding
English Setter Dealbreakers
- No fenced yard - dealing with a Setter without secure fencing is a part-time job
- Work long hours away from home - separation anxiety is significant
- Cannot commit to 60-90 min daily exercise
- Fastidious housekeepers - mud, hair, and water drips are part of the package
Surrender Risk
| Factor | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Level | Medium | Medium |
| Primary Reasons | Underestimated exercise needs, Behavioral challenges, Cost of care | Escaping - 'He won't stay in the yard', Too much energy for owner's lifestyle, Separation anxiety and barking when left alone |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | Low | Medium |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | Low | Medium |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Low | Low |
Chow Chow Social Traits
Moderate
Selective
English Setter Social Traits
Low
Low - generally excellent with other dogs and enjoy pack life. Same-sex aggression is rare.
Training
Chow Chow
- ** Positive reinforcement is the only viable path. Harsh methods or physical correction will trigger defensive aggression or total shutdown [cite: 5, 6].
English Setter
- They are 'soft' dogs - harsh corrections or yelling will cause them to shut down or become fearful
- Recall training must be proofed with high distractions - a long line is recommended until reliability is 100%
- Use high-value treats to compete with bird distractions
Chow Chow Considerations
The Chow Chow is frequently cited in insurance blacklists and dangerous dog legislation discussions due to a history of high-severity bite incidents. This aggression is typically territorial or protective rather than predatory toward humans, but the result is the same.
This breed has a well-documented intolerance for dogs of the same sex. This trait often emerges at sexual maturity (18-24 months) and may not be "trained out," requiring lifelong management and separation.
Unlike breeds that fawn over guests, the Chow Chow is naturally suspicious. Without intense, early socialization, this suspicion can escalate to snapping or biting when a stranger reaches to pet the "teddy bear".
Many Chows have a low tolerance for physical manipulation, making veterinary visits and grooming sessions dangerous without muzzle training and desensitization.
English Setter Considerations
English Setters are intensely social 'velcro' dogs that bond deeply with their humans. Left alone for 8+ hours without conditioning or companionship, they frequently develop severe anxiety manifesting as destructive chewing, house soiling, and persistent howling.
Their predatory drive is all-consuming. On walks, they may become deaf to commands if they catch a scent or spot a bird. Off-leash reliability in unfenced areas is nearly impossible for the average owner.
Bored or under-exercised Setters are notorious for testing perimeter security. Their athleticism allows them to jump moderate fences, and digging instincts can compromise fence lines if they see prey on the other side.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | Caution - may chase | Risky - while some can live with cats if raised together, the instinct to chase is hardwired. Generally not safe. |
| Small Mammals | Supervision required | Caution required - rabbits and hamsters trigger the chase instinct. Supervision mandatory. |
| Birds / Reptiles | Caution advised | Unsafe - birds are their ancestral prey. Will fixate on bird cages causing stress to both animals. |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Medium | Arrested |
| Biddability | Low | High |
| Noise Sensitivity | Low | Low |
| Territorial Barking | ||
| Same-Sex Aggression Onset | 18 months | N/A |
English Setter: Predatory sequence is Orient -> Eye -> Stalk -> Chase -> Point. The 'Grab-Bite' and 'Kill-Bite' are usually inhibited, meaning they are less dangerous to prey than terriers, but the chase drive is just as strong. They want to please but are easily distracted by birds.
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 6-18 | 7-12 |
| House Training | Easy | Medium |
| Crate Training | Medium | High |
| Adolescent Regression |
Chow Chow: Chow Chow puppies require consistent training and patience.
English Setter: Setter puppies combine high energy with a distractible hunting brain. House training can be slower than average (sensitive to surface textures). Very mouthy and prone to chewing furniture if bored. Around 8-10 months, they often 'forget' recall - this is when they're most likely to run off after a bird.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 12 months | 12 months |
| Adolescence | 6-18 | 12-24 |
| Adult Years | 2-8 | 2-8 |
| Senior Onset | ~8 years | ~9 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 1-3 years | 1-3 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 43-51 cm | 61-69 cm |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Large | Large |
| Lifespan | 8–12 years | 11–13 years |
| Litter Size | 4-8 | 6-8 |
Chow Chow Coat
English Setter Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | The Chow Chow is a basal breed, originating in Northern China/Mongolia over 2,000 years ago | Locating and setting (pointing) game birds on English moors for net and gun hunters |
| Origin | in Northern China/Mongolia over 2 | England, 15th-17th century |
Breeding Details
| Detail | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | Varies | Low |
| Whelping Difficulty | Medium | Easy |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Low | Low |
Physical Risks
| Risk | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | Low | High |
| Slippery Floor Risk | Low | Medium |
| Min Fence Height | 1.5m | 1.5m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Low | Medium |
Health & Common Conditions
Chow Chow Health Issues
English Setter Health Issues
Chow Chow Suggested Tests
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
- Orthopedic Screening (OFA or PennHIP)
- Thyroid Panel
English Setter Suggested Tests
- BAER (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) test for deafness
- Hip Evaluation (OFA or PennHIP)
- Thyroid Evaluation
- Elbow Evaluation
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Medium | Medium |
| Cardiac Risk | Low | Low |
| Neurological Risk | Low | Low |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | Low | Medium |
| Vet Burden Tier | Medium | Medium |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Low | Low |
| Food Allergies | Grain sensitivities possible |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Normal |
| Eye Care Needs | Low | Low |
| Anal Gland Issues | Occasional | Rare |
Senior Care & Aging
Chow Chow Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis
- Vision decline
- Cognitive changes
Senior care varies by individual health.
English Setter Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis/joint stiffness
- Cancer (hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma)
- Hearing loss
- Mobility issues
Quality of life often remains good until late. Cancer and mobility issues are the common end-of-life factors. Some reach 14-15 years.
Grooming & Care
Chow Chow
high maintenanceEnglish Setter
high maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
Chow Chow Daily Life
English Setter Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | Under 50lbs | Over 50lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | Medium | High |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Good |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | Low | Low |
| Therapy Dog | Low | Medium |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Low | Low |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | N/A | $1,000-1,500 |
| Initial Cost Range | $1,000–$2,500 | $1,300–$2,000 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $150–$250 | $180–$275 |
| Yearly Range | $1,800–$3,000 | $2,160–$3,300 |
| Food / Month | N/A | $75-125 |
| Insurance / Month | $100-150 | $40-70 |
| Grooming / Session | $100-150 | $65-100 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $100-150 | $600-960 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
Chow Chow Lifetime Cost
N/A
English Setter Lifetime Cost
$25,000-45,000
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | Chow Chow | English Setter |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Occasional | Rare |
| Slobber Level | Low | Moderate |
| Smell When Wet | Moderate | Strong |
| Zoomies Frequency | Occasional | Daily |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | Low | Medium |
English Setter Quirks
Setter Sprawl
Famous for sleeping in bizarre, contorted positions on furniture
Water Dripper
Loose 'flews' (lips) that drip water after drinking and leave slime on your pants after a nudge
Velcro Attachment
Will follow you to the bathroom - they need to be integrated into family life, not left as backyard dogs
The Off Switch
Indoors, a well-exercised Setter is a 'rug dog' - calm, quiet, and happy to sleep. Not hyperactive pacers like some herding breeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
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