AKC vs CKC Recognition and the Genetics Behind Them
One of the questions many new owners ask is why Chow Chows come in different coat colors, and how this relates to what the major kennel clubs officially recognize. The two most common registries people think about are the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Continental Kennel Club (CKC). While both acknowledge the classic colors of the breed, there are subtle differences in how they describe and record them. Underneath those standards is a layer of genetics that helps explain what we see in the puppies themselves.
What Both Clubs Recognize as Standard Colors
Both the AKC and CKC recognize the same core, traditional Chow Chow colors:
- Red – from light golden to deep mahogany
- Black
- Blue – a diluted form of black pigment
- Cinnamon or Fawn – a diluted form of red pigment
- Cream – very light red pigmentation
These are considered the classic solid colors of the breed and are accepted for registration and conformation showing under both organizations.
A Simple Look at Coat Color Genetics
Dogs produce two main types of pigment:
- Eumelanin, which creates dark pigment such as black, blue, and brown
- Phaeomelanin, which creates lighter pigment such as red and cream
In Chow Chows, the interaction of these pigments with a few key genes determines whether a puppy grows into a rich red, a deep black, a slate blue, a warm cinnamon, or a soft cream.
A separate “dilution” gene is what turns black into blue and red into cinnamon. Cream occurs when red pigment is genetically reduced or masked.
This is why puppies from the same parents can sometimes mature into slightly different shades.
How AKC and CKC Interpret Color
AKC Standard
The AKC recognizes only the five classic colors listed above. The standard emphasizes solid coats or solid coats with lighter shading, particularly in the ruff, tail, and feathering. Dogs with colors or patterns outside this list may still be registered, but they are considered non standard and are not eligible for conformation showing.
CKC Standard
The Continental Kennel Club is more flexible in how it records coat colors. While it also lists the same traditional colors as standard, it allows the registration of non standard colors and patterns in its database. These dogs may still be registered, though they are typically not eligible for certain CKC conformation events.
What About Chocolate or Liver Chows
“Chocolate” or “liver” refers to a dog that has brown pigment instead of black pigment in areas where dark color normally appears. This includes the nose, lips, eye rims, paw pads, and any dark areas of the coat.
The Genetics Behind Chocolate
This color is controlled by what is known as the brown gene. It is recessive, which means a puppy must inherit the gene from both parents to express the chocolate color.
In simple terms:
- A dog with one brown gene is a carrier and will look like a standard colored Chow
- A dog with two brown genes will appear chocolate or liver
A true chocolate Chow will often have:
- A brown or liver colored nose instead of black
- Brown or amber toned eyes
- Brown lips, eye rims, and paw pads
- A coat that appears rich brown rather than black
AKC Position on Chocolate
The AKC does not recognize chocolate or liver as a standard Chow Chow color. A chocolate Chow can still be registered, but the color is considered non standard and the dog would be disqualified from conformation showing.
CKC Position on Chocolate
The CKC allows chocolate or liver to be recorded as a non standard color. These dogs can be registered, but like other non standard colors, they may not be eligible for certain conformation events.
Health Considerations
The brown gene itself is not linked to health problems. However, responsible breeding always prioritizes health, temperament, and structure over rare or unusual colors. A well bred Chow is defined by its soundness and character first, not its shade.
What Is Not Considered Standard by Either Club
Both the AKC and CKC generally consider the following to be non standard for Chow Chows:
- Parti color or large white patches
- Merle
- Brindle
- Multi patterned or patchy coats
These colors may still be registered under certain registries, but they are not accepted for traditional conformation showing.
What This Means for Puppy Buyers
When choosing a puppy, coat color is often one of the first things people notice, but it is only one small part of the picture.
A healthy, well raised Chow should always be evaluated by:
- Temperament and confidence
- Health testing and veterinary care
- Structure and movement
- Early socialization and handling
Color simply adds to the beauty of a well balanced dog.
Our Perspective
At Krystal Chow Bears, we believe coat color should be appreciated, not chased. The heart of a great Chow is found in their dignity, loyalty, and steady presence in the home. When those qualities are in place, any of the recognized colors become something special in their own way.
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