Chow Chow Dogs
An Affectionate Yet Independent Dog Breed!
Background And Description:
A very ancient breed, Chow Chow dogs have their history rooted in China. Originally the Chow was used to fulfill a number of jobs including
hunting, guarding, herding and sled pulling. Occasionally, it was also a food source and its skin was made into clothing. The breed
nowadays is seldom seen in China and lives his life primarily as a popular companion dog. He is also a frequent participant in the
show dog arena.
This is one the oldest dog breeds according to recent DNA analysis. While its development is not clear, many believe it includes
artic and mastiff type dog breeds. One could easily envision how the Chow's coat could have developed in the artic regions!
The appearance of the Chow is both stunning and formidable - the main impression being a squarely built, well-balanced dog
of considerable power. A unique feature that is shared with just one other dog breed, the Shar Pei, is a blue-black tongue.
As puppies, they look like puffy teddy bears - in other words, adorable!
Appearance:
Weight: 45 to 70 pounds
Height: Ranges between 19 to 20 inches
Coat Colors: Most frequently seen are black, tan, cream, blue and red. They may be solid or contain some lighter shading around the neck, tail or
feathered areas.
Coat and Care:
Chow Chow dogs have a double coat that can be rough or smooth. The rough coat has a coarse texture, is very dense straight and
stand-offish, while the undercoat is soft and woolly. It contains an abundant ruff around the head, framing the head and
giving it a lion-like appearance.
The smooth coated variation is hard in texture and quite dense. It does not have a ruff or feathering about the coat.
Maintenance for both coat types, includes frequent brushing to keep the coat in its best condition and free of mats. Care
should be taken in brushing the ruff to avoid stripping it. Daily attention is needed to prevent tangling of the puppy
coat, as well as to assist proper development of the adult coat.
Personality and Traits:
Although you may have heard some disparaging comments about Chow Chow dogs, they're really quite agreeable and dignified
fellows in the right hands. Unfortunately many people get a dog without much thought or information about the breed, so it's
not surprising that these people do not train their dogs properly either! Or, even worse, don't train them at all! Sadly,
it's often the dog that get the blame.
Granted, there are some dogs with an inherited bad temperament, but responsible breeders will strive to avoid this by
careful selection in the mating process. There was a time in the not too distant past when this dog was irresponsibly
bred due to its popularity, so it is possible to have some unwanted traits from this era handed down to present-day dogs.
While a chow has a more aloof demeanor, he still prefers being in close company with his family pack. He is not a dog to be left outside
and definitely never tied up. He will be fine left alone inside, quietly guarding the home for a few hours at a time until you return.
Training:
Chow dogs belong in the hands of confident - yet low key - owners and they need to be trained early. They are independent intelligent
thinkers and will enjoy creative training techniques that are not repetitive or boring. Owners need to establish themselves in the
alpha position and gain their respect with a firm and consistent appproach, coupled with
lots of praise and positive feedback. A Chow will not respond to harsh treatment - he must be trained in a loving manner that respects
his dignity. Early socialization is most important plus getting him used to being handled from a young age.
The Chow Chow dog usually bonds most closely with its master and other family members if those members are seen as authority figures.
When it comes to strangers, it is best to let them take their time to assess newcomers.
Health: Some Chow Chow dogs can have health issues related to their eyes, plus elbow and hip dysplasia. Finding a
reliable vet to evaluate their
health soon after you acquire one, is a good idea not only for his on-going care, but also to get him
accustomed to being handled in this setting.
Activity Level:
Left to their own devices, Chows can become a bit fond of the couch. Like all dogs, they need a decent walk each day for both
mental and physical health.
Out of respect for their heavy overcoat, try to take them out during the coolest hours especially during the
summer months. When they are outside free-roaming in a yard, a shady area with access to water is a must.
Space Needs:
Chow Chow dogs can do okay in house or apartment if daily walks and other exercise is provided. Outside areas should have
plenty of shady spots and availability of water as their coat does makes them heat up much faster than most breeds.
On warm days, a chow dogs prefer to be air-conditioned.
Children:
This breed is very powerful and can be stubborn. Although families have noted their affection for
children, temperaments within the breed can be quite variable.
Finding a responsible breeder who can attest to temperament is highly
recommended to those considering the Chow as a family companion.
Elderly:
Chow Chow dogs can be good companions for active seniors with confident, forthright personalities and those who can manage his
daily walks. Would not do well with a meek or passive owner.
Reading Recommendations:
A very useful guide book providing great insights into Chow Chow dogs. Recommended for new owners or prospective owners
to help them gain a clear understanding of this unconventional dog breed and its needs. Includes health care, training, breeding and
showing.
Share Your Chow Knowledge
- Do you own a Chow Chow or have previously owned one?
- Would you like to share what you know about the breed?
- Or, is this breed just one of your favorites and you'd like to make some comments
about this interesting dog?
We invite any and all dog lovers to make a post about this breed, or their favorite breed and we'll publish your
comments on a webpage along for others to enjoy. We'll even add your name if you'd like the recognition.
Visit this page where you'll find a
text box to post your comments. You'll also be able to read stories that others have written about their favorite
dogs.
Go on, give it a try!
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