PRESENTING THE CHOW CHOW
HISTORY
This unique and fascinating member of the canine family is of Chinese origin and is steeped in mystery. Chows have retained their individuality and distinct appearance since at least 150 BC and early records indicate that the Chow was used by the Emperors as guards for their palaces and for hunting. The first record of the Chow in the Western world was made in England in 1781, but they did not gain prominence until a century later.
While primarily a companion dog, the Chows instincts as a guardian and hunter are regularly displayed. Chows are quick to take up the chase of rabbit, cat, chicken and are equally alert in protecting the home and family
DESCRIPTION
The Chow Chow has a thick coat which is comprised of a soft woolly undercoat - to serve as an insulation against heat and cold - and a coarse outer coat to add beauty and protection.
Colours are solid or shaded red, black, blue, fawn, cream, white.
The distinctive feature of this medium sized dog is its blue black tongue - a feature it shares with the bear. Another characteristic is his unusual, unique gait. The rear legs are so straight in the stifle area that the Chow has a choppy walk; (often referred to as stilted) this does not impair his ability to run at fast speeds. His preferred gait is a trot and at this pace he has endless endurance.
The Chow's broad head and muzzle is surrounded by an off-standing ruff. His eyes are almond shaped, deep set and this gives him an unusual mysterious, quiet and thoughtful look. The scowl is a characteristic and is often misunderstood to be a sign of meanness; far from the truth. The tail is curled up over his back and is a high set 'Brush' type.
PERSONALITY and HABITS
The Chow is a happy, independent and devoted dog. He is not a dog to fawn over everyone who knocks at the door, but saves his affection, playfulness and idiosyncrasies for his family. He is a devoted companion but looks on his owner as a friend and leader NOT as a master. The loyalty of a Chow is something to be treasured and well worth the effort to attain. He is a unique dog ;he shares with the cat family the attributes of cleanliness and nimbleness. Many Chows wash their faces after eating.
And all Chows have an odour free body. It is rare that a Chow is not house trained by eight weeks.
TRAINING
Chows are quick learners as they are extremely intelligent ..... so much so that they will ignore any instruction which they consider stupid. They are very sensitive and must never be beaten as they will hold a grudge.
CARE and GROOMING
The coat requires regular brushing and combing to keep it looking its best. Frequent brushing will help housekeeping as the coat is shed several times a year.
SUMMARY:
LOVING, INTELLIGENT, MYSTERIOUS, MAGNIFICENT, CLEAN, LOYAL, ARISTOCRATIC, ALOOF.
These are words often used to describe this noble dog. The Chow Chow will serve you if you will be his friend and he will love you with all his fierce pride.
TRAINING
Chows are quick learners as they are extremely intelligent ..... so much so that they will ignore any instruction which they consider stupid. They are very sensitive and must never be beaten as they will hold a grudge.
CARE and GROOMING
The coat requires regular brushing and combing to keep it looking its best. Frequent brushing will help housekeeping as the coat is shed several times a year.
SUMMARY:
LOVING, INTELLIGENT, MYSTERIOUS, MAGNIFICENT, CLEAN, LOYAL, ARISTOCRATIC, ALOOF.
These are words often used to describe this noble dog. The Chow Chow will serve you if you will be his friend and he will love you with all his fierce pride.
