Chow Chows originated in Northern China; per a research study conducted on Chow Chows. They are a basal breed that antedate modern breed from the 19th Century. The study have also concluded that the origin of the Chows breed is from indigenous dogs from Central China. They have been able to trace their lineage back about 8,300 years. There have been mentions of Chows throughout history, like in an old Chinese legend. The legend referenced large dogs of war with black tongues and a resembalence to lions. It is also said Emperor Ling of the Han and T'ang Dynasties owned 5,000 Chow Chows and used them as guard dogs. They were also used as sled dogs, hunting dogs, and guard dogs. Source:Wikipedia