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Originally established over 2100 years ago in Mongolia, the Chow Chow is a good companion and superb watchdog. He is a medium sized breed with a thick puffy coat that makes him look like a living teddy bear. They come in solid black, and shades of red/brown. Their tongues and noses are black, as is the inside of their mouths.
The Chow Chow appears to be cute and cuddly, but their lordly attitude and scowling visage have gained them the reputation as being mean. It is true; some individuals are grouchy and perhaps even mean, while other individuals are indifferent or playful. They are always haughty and aloof.
The Chow Chow is a fiercely loyal animal; they will protect their family to the ends of their ability. This trait makes him a good choice as a watchdog. If you mess with anything that he considers his own, he will probably bite! He will also choose a person to bond with, and will only obey that person. He will tolerate other people in the family, and obey them only if they have a treat. People outside of the family are ignored. This would make the Chow Chow the wrong choice if you often leave your house with a house sitter. The dog will do whatever he wants.
These dogs must have a strong human master, since they are strong willed themselves. The human must impress upon the dog that he is boss, and make the dog believe it. Most Chow Chow owners have found that the parenting methods used for dealing with teenagers work well for the dog. Be firm and consistent, while loving and your Chow Chow will turn out just right.
They have a double layer coat; the undercoat is of soft downy fuzz. This fuzz is shed in the spring, depending upon the climate; some individuals shed year round. You may find that your dog sheds enough to build another dog or two! Do not choose a Chow Chow if your vacuum cleaner does not work.
Some Chow Chows are prone to skin problems and allergies. Allergies will vary among individuals, a flea bite allergy seems to be common among these animals. However, some individuals may be allergic to cat dander or pollen. A veterinarian can prescribe something that will provide relief.
As far as housebreaking is concerned, this is very easy for a Chow Chow. They are highly intelligent and learn very quickly. This makes them a good choice for apartment dwellers, as long as they can be exercised at least once a day. In exchange for a good walk, your Chow Chow will protect your belongings from everything, including your upstairs neighbor! They are generally quiet, and only bark when there is a reason to do so. Mostly, if they are comfortable with their surroundings they will lay around and wait for something to happen. They don't chew on things like most dogs. Puppies will chew, but as the dog ages, chewing on sticks or bones is not cool. Therefore, they do not do it. However, the Chow Chow is not above eating the occasional pig ear, or doggy treat. Pork rinds are another good choice as a treat for your dog; they have no calories, and no sugar. The dogs just love them, too.
Some famous Chow Chow owners are Queen Victoria, Elvis Presley, and Martha Stewart. The Chow Chow is a great choice for a pet, as long as you understand him and his quirkiness.
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