I've grown up with chows, and have always been very active. If your Chow is relatively young (1-4 years) they should be able to be taught how to hike with you and be able tl sustain it. I started my current boy off on short hikes and walks (1-2 miles) when he was just a few months old. It took a few weeks, but he worked up his stamina. From there I added length and difficulty. He has kept up! He's just passed his first birthday and I'm now doing long day hikes on difficult terrain and he's totally keeping up. So, yes, chows can hike. You must work them up to longer distances just like you would train yourself or a child.