Best Pet Insurance for Chow Chows

Hip dysplasia is extremely prevalent in Chow Chows — OFA data consistently shows one of the highest hip dysplasia rates among all breeds, with over 20% of evaluated dogs affected. The Chow's straight rear legs and heavy build exacerbate hip joint stress. Total hip replacement ($5,000–$8,000 per hip) provides the best outcome for severe cases; FHO ($1,500–$3,500) is an alternative. Medical management with NSAIDs and joint supplements costs $600–$1,800/year. Many Chow owners face $10,000–$16,000 in bilateral hip surgery costs.

Elbow dysplasia is also prevalent in Chow Chows, per OFA data. Developmental abnormalities of the elbow joint — including fragmented coronoid process and OCD — cause pain, lameness, and early arthritis. Arthroscopic surgery ($1,500–$3,500 per elbow) offers the best outcomes for significant disease. Long-term arthritis management costs $500–$1,500/year. With both hip and elbow dysplasia common in the breed, Chows can face simultaneous orthopedic challenges affecting all four limbs.

Entropion — inward-rolling eyelids — is highly prevalent in Chow Chows due to their heavy facial skin folds and deepset eyes. The rolling eyelid causes corneal abrasion, ulceration, and potentially permanent vision damage. Corrective surgery ($800–$1,500 per eye) is the standard treatment and may require multiple procedures for severe cases. Without correction, chronic corneal irritation leads to keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye) and potentially vision loss. Annual ophthalmology exams ($150–$300) are recommended.

Hypothyroidism — autoimmune thyroiditis — is highly prevalent in Chow Chows and is one of the most commonly diagnosed conditions in the breed. Affected dogs develop weight gain, lethargy, alopecia (hair loss), skin changes, and in some cases reproductive problems. Thyroid panel diagnosis costs $150–$300. Daily levothyroxine supplementation costs $200–$600/year. Semi-annual monitoring bloodwork ($150–$300/visit) is required for proper management. The breed club strongly recommends OFA thyroid evaluation for breeding dogs.

Chow Chows have an elevated predisposition to autoimmune-mediated conditions, including autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA), immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (ITP), and pemphigus (autoimmune skin disease). These conditions can be life-threatening and require aggressive immunosuppressive treatment. AIHA treatment including blood transfusions, steroids, and hospitalization can cost $2,000–$5,000. Pemphigus management requires ongoing immunosuppressive medications ($500–$2,000/year). The Chow's predisposition to multiple autoimmune conditions underscores the need for comprehensive insurance.