Pitbull Mixed With a Chow: The Complete Pit Chow Breed Guide
Everything about a pitbull mixed with a chow — size, temperament, health risks, coat types, cost, and whether the Pit Chow fits your household.
What Is a Pitbull Mixed With a Chow?
A pitbull mixed with a chow — often called a Pit Chow or Chow Pit — is a cross between an American Pit Bull Terrier (or related bully-type breed) and a Chow Chow. This is not an AKC-recognized breed. It's a deliberate or accidental first-generation cross that combines two dogs with strikingly different histories, body types, and temperaments.
Because these parent breeds sit on opposite ends of the behavioral spectrum — one famously people-oriented and eager to please, the other famously aloof and independent — predicting what any individual Pit Chow will be like is genuinely difficult. That unpredictability is the defining feature of this mix, and it's what every prospective owner needs to understand before committing.
Parent Breed Breakdown: Two Very Different Dogs
To understand a Pit Chow, you need to understand both parent breeds. These dogs were developed for entirely different purposes in entirely different climates, and their traits don't always blend smoothly.
| Trait | American Pit Bull Terrier | Chow Chow |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | United States / UK — bred from bulldog and terrier crosses for bull-baiting, later farm and family dogs | Ancient China — used for hunting, herding, guarding, and sled-pulling; one of the oldest recognizable breeds |
| AKC Weight Range | 30–65 lb (14–29 kg) | 45–70 lb (20–32 kg) |
| AKC Height | 17–21 in (43–53 cm) | 17–20 in (43–51 cm) |
| Lifespan | 12–16 years | 8–12 years |
| Coat | Short, smooth, single coat; low shedding | Dense double coat (rough or smooth); heavy seasonal shedding |
| Temperament | Affectionate, people-oriented, eager to please, high energy, can be dog-aggressive | Aloof, independent, cat-like, loyal to family, suspicious of strangers, can be same-sex aggressive |
| Trainability | High — responds well to positive reinforcement | Moderate to low — stubborn, requires patience; responds poorly to force |
| AKC Group | Terrier (UKC) / Not AKC-recognized as "Pit Bull" specifically; Am. Staffy is in Terrier Group | Non-Sporting Group |
The key takeaway: you're crossing a gregarious, high-energy terrier-type with a reserved, low-energy spitz-type. The resulting puppies can land anywhere on that spectrum, and littermates may be dramatically different from one another.
How Big Will a Pitbull Mixed With a Chow Get?
Because the parent breeds are similar in height but can differ in build, a Pit Chow's adult size is moderately predictable in height but less so in weight and body composition.
| Measurement | Low End | High End | Most Common Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 35 lb (16 kg) | 75 lb (34 kg) | 45–65 lb (20–29 kg) |
| Height at Shoulder | 17 in (43 cm) | 22 in (56 cm) | 18–20 in (46–51 cm) |
| Body Type | Lean, athletic (Pitbull-leaning) | Stocky, broad (Chow-leaning) | Medium build, muscular |
Most Pit Chows reach their full height by 12–14 months but continue filling out in chest and muscle mass until 18–24 months. Males tend toward the higher end of the range. If one parent was an American Staffordshire Terrier (which can reach 70+ lb), expect the upper range to skew heavier.
Temperament: What to Expect (and What You Can't Predict)
Temperament is where the Pit Chow becomes genuinely unpredictable. You're combining two breeds with fundamentally different social styles, and the way those traits express in a mixed dog depends on which parent's genes dominate, early socialization quality, and individual neurochemistry.
Best-Case Scenario
A Pit Chow that inherits the Pitbull's people-orientation and the Chow's calm demeanor can be an outstanding companion: loyal without being clingy, alert without being reactive, and sturdy enough for active households while being content to lounge in the evening. These dogs bond deeply with their family and are typically good with children they're raised alongside.
Challenging Scenario
A Pit Chow that inherits the Chow's stranger suspicion and the Pitbull's dog-directed intensity can be a management-heavy dog. This combination produces a dog that is wary of visitors, potentially reactive toward other dogs, and strong enough to be difficult to handle on leash. Without skilled socialization beginning before 16 weeks of age, these dogs can develop fear-based reactivity that requires professional intervention.
Trait Variability Chart
| Trait | Pitbull-Leaning | Chow-Leaning | Blend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stranger friendliness | Greets everyone enthusiastically | Ignores or avoids strangers; may growl if approached | Polite but reserved; warms up slowly |
| Energy level | 60–90 min vigorous exercise daily | 30–45 min moderate walks | 45–60 min mixed activity |
| Trainability | Quick learner, works for praise and food | Learns but may refuse to comply; needs motivation | Capable but inconsistent; short sessions work best |
| Dog sociability | Variable; may be selective or dog-aggressive | Typically prefers to be only dog; same-sex aggression common | Often best as only pet; early socialization critical |
| Vocalization | Moderate barker; may "talk" and whine | Quiet; barks only when alerting | Generally low vocalization |
Coat, Shedding, and Grooming Needs
Coat type in a Pit Chow depends entirely on which parent's coat genes dominate — and this is one area where you can often make an educated guess by looking at the puppy's coat at 8–10 weeks.
Coat Possibilities
- Short/smooth (Pitbull-type): Single coat, lies flat, minimal undercoat. Sheds moderately year-round. Easy to maintain with weekly brushing using a rubber curry brush or bristle brush.
- Dense double coat (Chow-type): Thick undercoat with longer guard hairs. Can be rough (longer, coarser) or smooth (shorter but still dense). Sheds heavily during seasonal coat blows (spring and fall) and moderately year-round.
- Intermediate: A short-to-medium length coat with some undercoat density. Moderate shedding with seasonal increases.
Is a Pit Chow Hypoallergenic?
No. Neither parent breed is hypoallergenic, and no dog truly is. The Chow Chow is a prolific shedder with significant dander production. Even a Pit Chow that inherits the Pitbull's short coat will shed and produce allergenic dander. If you have dog allergies, this mix is not a good choice.
Grooming Schedule by Coat Type
| Task | Short Coat (Pitbull-Type) | Dense Coat (Chow-Type) |
|---|---|---|
| Brushing | 1–2× per week | 3–5× per week; daily during coat blow |
| Bathing | Every 6–8 weeks or as needed | Every 8–12 weeks; thorough drying critical to prevent hotspots |
| Professional grooming | Rarely needed | Every 8–12 weeks if coat is rough-type; $50–$85 per session |
| Tools needed | Rubber curry brush, grooming mitt | Undercoat rake, slicker brush, metal comb, high-velocity dryer |
Chow-type coats require particular attention to complete drying after baths or swimming. Dense undercoats trap moisture against the skin, which can cause acute moist dermatitis (hot spots) within hours. A high-velocity dryer like the Andis Cyclone Force or similar is a worthwhile investment ($120–$180) if your Pit Chow inherits a dense coat.
Health Considerations: Hybrid Vigor vs. Reality
Let's address a common misconception: the idea that mixed-breed dogs automatically enjoy "hybrid vigor" that eliminates health problems. This is a myth, particularly for first-generation crosses like the Pit Chow.
Hybrid vigor (heterosis) refers to the reduced incidence of recessive genetic disorders when two unrelated gene pools combine. It's real — but it only reduces the risk of conditions that are caused by recessive genes common within a single breed's closed gene pool. It does not protect against structural issues, conditions with polygenic inheritance, or problems that both parent breeds share.
Both the Pitbull-type breeds and the Chow Chow are predisposed to several overlapping and distinct health conditions. A Pit Chow can inherit any combination of these.
Health Conditions to Screen For
| Condition | Inherited From | Prevalence | Screening Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hip dysplasia | Both breeds | ~24% of Pitbulls; ~17% of Chows (OFA data) | OFA/PennHIP radiographs at 24 months; estimated cost $200–$400 |
| Elbow dysplasia | Both breeds (higher in Chows) | ~12% of Chows; less common in Pitbulls | OFA elbow radiographs; often done with hip screening |
| Patellar luxation | Pitbull-type breeds | ~6–8% of bully breeds | Veterinary orthopedic exam; OFA certification |
| Entropion | Chow Chow (very common) | High in Chows; eyelid rolls inward causing corneal damage | CERF/OFA ophthalmologist exam; surgical correction $500–$1,500 per eye if needed |
| Skin allergies (atopic dermatitis) | Both breeds (very common in Pitbulls) | Estimated 20–30% of Pitbull-type dogs | Veterinary dermatology workup; allergy testing $300–$600; ongoing management costs vary |
| Hypothyroidism | Chow Chow | Elevated in Chows per Merck Veterinary Manual | Full thyroid panel (not just T4); OFA thyroid registry |
| Cardiac conditions (aortic stenosis) | Both breeds (documented in both) | Low-to-moderate prevalence | OFA cardiac exam by veterinary cardiologist; echocardiogram $300–$500 |
If you're purchasing from a breeder, insist on seeing OFA or equivalent health clearances for both parent dogs — hips, elbows, eyes, and thyroid at minimum. A responsible breeder will have these on file and share them willingly. If a breeder says "the vet checked them and they're fine," that is not equivalent to OFA-certified screening.
Training and Socialization: A Critical Window
The Pit Chow's temperament is heavily shaped by early experience. The primary socialization window for puppies closes around 14–16 weeks of age, and because both parent breeds have tendencies that can become problematic without proper socialization (Pitbull dog-aggression, Chow stranger suspicion), this window is non-negotiable.
Socialization Priorities for Pit Chow Puppies
- Weeks 8–12: Exposure to 50+ novel people (different ages, ethnicities, clothing, hats, uniforms). Focus on neutral-to-positive experiences — no forced interactions.
- Weeks 10–14: Supervised exposure to well-vaccinated, temperament-tested adult dogs. Avoid dog parks. Structured puppy classes using positive reinforcement methods are ideal.
- Weeks 12–16: Environmental exposure — different surfaces, sounds, vehicles, grooming tools, handling of paws/ears/mouth. Pair every novel experience with high-value treats.
- Ongoing (6–18 months): Continue structured social exposure through adolescence. Both breeds can develop reactivity during social maturity (12–36 months) even if well-socialized as puppies.
Training should use positive reinforcement and force-free methods only. The Chow Chow's independent nature makes them shut down under compulsion, and the Pitbull's sensitivity means harsh corrections damage the working relationship. Look for trainers certified through CCPDT (Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers) or IAABC (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants) who use LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) protocols.
Exercise Requirements
Plan for 45–75 minutes of structured activity daily, adjusted based on which parent's energy level your dog inherits. This should include:
- Leash walks (20–30 min, 2× daily)
- Mental enrichment: food puzzles, snuffle mats, scent work, frozen Kongs
- Structured play: flirt pole, tug, fetch (if interested — Chows are often less retrieve-motivated)
- Training sessions (5–10 min, 2–3× daily — more effective than long sessions)
Cost and Availability: What You'll Actually Pay
The Pit Chow is not a high-demand designer breed like a Goldendoodle or Cavapoo, which affects both price and availability in ways that might surprise you.
Price Ranges
| Source | Price Range | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Intentional breeder (health-tested parents) | $800–$2,000 | OFA clearances, early socialization protocol, health guarantee, take-back clause. Relatively rare — few breeders specialize in this cross. |
| Casual/backyard breeder | $200–$600 | No health testing, minimal socialization, no guarantee. High risk of inherited conditions and behavioral issues. |
| Shelter/rescue adoption | $50–$350 | This mix appears in shelters more often than in breeder listings. Adult dogs allow you to assess actual temperament. Many rescues include initial vet work. |
First-Year Budget Estimate
Beyond the purchase price, budget for these first-year costs:
- Veterinary care (initial exam, vaccines, spay/neuter, heartworm/flea prevention): $600–$1,200
- Food (medium-to-large breed, AAFCO complete and balanced): $480–$720/year ($40–$60/month for quality kibble like Purina Pro Plan, Royal Canin, or Hill's Science Diet)
- Training classes (puppy socialization + basic obedience): $200–$500
- Supplies (crate, leash, harness, bowls, bed, grooming tools): $250–$500
- Pet insurance (recommended for mixed breeds with dual-breed health risks): $40–$75/month depending on coverage level and deductible
Total first-year cost (excluding purchase price): $1,730–$3,620
Rescue vs. Breeder Considerations
Because Pitbull-type dogs are overrepresented in US shelters (estimated 30–40% of shelter populations in many cities, per ASPCA data), Pit Chows and similar mixes frequently appear in rescue. Adopting an adult Pit Chow has the advantage of known temperament — you can assess stranger reactivity, dog sociability, and energy level before committing. Reputable rescues like local SPCA chapters, pitbull-specific rescues, and all-breed rescues often have behavioral evaluations on file.
Who Is the Pit Chow Best Suited For?
This mix is not a good first dog. The combination of potential dog-aggression, stranger wariness, physical strength, and training resistance from the Chow side requires an owner who understands canine body language and has experience managing reactive or strong-willed dogs.
Ideal Household Profile
- Experience level: Intermediate to advanced dog owner. Prior experience with bully breeds, spitz breeds, or reactive dogs is strongly preferred.
- Family composition: Adults-only or families with children over age 10 who understand dog body language. Supervision with young children is essential regardless of breed.
- Other pets: Best suited as the only dog in the household. Cat compatibility is unpredictable and should be assessed on an individual basis.
- Living situation: House with secure fencing (6-foot minimum recommended for athletic individuals). Apartment living is possible with committed exercise routines but check breed restrictions first.
- Time commitment: Someone home for significant portions of the day, or arrangements for midday exercise. Neither parent breed does well with 10+ hours of daily isolation.
- Financial readiness: Prepared for potential health costs related to hip/elbow dysplasia ($1,500–$6,000 for surgical intervention), skin allergy management ($50–$200/month for medications like Apoquel or Cytopoint), or entropion surgery.
Who Should Look at a Different Breed
- First-time dog owners without a support network of experienced trainers
- Households with multiple existing dogs (especially same-sex)
- People who need a reliably friendly dog for therapy work or frequent visitors
- Renters in areas with breed-specific legislation targeting Pitbull-type dogs
- Anyone seeking a low-maintenance dog in terms of training, socialization, or potential medical management
Frequently Asked Questions
What two breeds make up the Pit Chow?
The Pit Chow is a cross between an American Pit Bull Terrier (or related bully breed such as the American Staffordshire Terrier) and a Chow Chow. Some breeders may use Staffordshire Bull Terriers or American Bulldogs, which changes the expected size and temperament. Always confirm the exact parent breeds.
How big will a pitbull mixed with a chow get?
Most Pit Chows weigh between 45–65 lb (20–29 kg) and stand 18–20 inches (46–51 cm) at the shoulder. The full range spans 35–75 lb (16–34 kg) depending on which parent's size genes dominate and the specific bully breed used.
What will the temperament be like?
Temperament is the most unpredictable aspect of this mix. Your dog could be friendly and outgoing (Pitbull-leaning), aloof and reserved (Chow-leaning), or a blend of both. Early socialization before 16 weeks is critical regardless of genetic tendency. Expect a loyal, family-bonded dog that may be selective about strangers and other dogs.
Is a pitbull mixed with a chow hypoallergenic or low-shedding?
No. Neither parent breed is hypoallergenic. If your Pit Chow inherits the Chow Chow's dense double coat, expect significant seasonal shedding. Even the short-coated variant sheds moderately. This mix is not suitable for people with dog allergies.
What health issues might this mix inherit?
The most common inherited risks include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, entropion (eyelid abnormality from the Chow side), atopic dermatitis (skin allergies, especially from the Pitbull side), and hypothyroidism (from the Chow side). Health screening of both parent dogs through OFA or equivalent programs reduces but does not eliminate risk.
How much does a pitbull mixed with a chow cost?
From a responsible breeder with health-tested parents, expect $800–$2,000. Shelter adoptions range from $50–$350. First-year care costs (food, vet, supplies, training) add $1,730–$3,620. This mix is relatively uncommon from breeders but appears regularly in shelters and rescues.
Are Pit Chows aggressive?
Aggression is not a breed trait — it's a behavior influenced by genetics, socialization, training, and environment. Both parent breeds can exhibit dog-directed aggression, and the Chow Chow can be stranger-wary. A well-socialized Pit Chow raised with positive reinforcement training is not inherently aggressive toward people. However, prospective owners should be prepared to manage potential dog-to-dog reactivity and invest in ongoing socialization.
What generation is a Pit Chow — F1, F1B, or multigen?
Almost all Pit Chows are F1 (first-generation) crosses — meaning one purebred Pitbull parent and one purebred Chow Chow parent. Unlike doodle breeds (Goldendoodles, Labradoodles), there is virtually no established multigenerational breeding program for Pit Chows. You won't typically find F1B (backcross) or F2 (two Pit Chows bred together) examples. This means each puppy is a genuine genetic roll of the dice between two very different breeds.
F1: First-generation cross between two purebred parents of different breeds. Maximum genetic diversity, most unpredictable traits.
F1B: Backcross — an F1 bred back to one of the parent breeds (e.g., Pit Chow bred to a Chow Chow). Slightly more predictable toward the backcross breed.
F2: Two F1 individuals bred together. Trait expression becomes more variable, not less.
Multigen: Multiple generations of the same cross bred together. Rare outside of established designer breeds like doodles.
The information in this guide is for educational purposes and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for health decisions specific to your dog. For breed-specific health data, the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) maintains searchable breed health databases. If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic substance, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (24/7, consultation fee applies).
Tom Renshaw
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
