These are the most common types of relaxedbody language in your dog: Adog with relaxed body language that lays down and takes a nap by your side is showing you how much they trust you (and how much they like being close to you, another sign of a strong bond). It is no fault of the beautiful Chow Chow should you be an ignorant and ill-prepared dog owner. by April Tue Jul 03, 2007 9:17 am, Post First of all, it is a dog with an adorable appearance. If your dog seeks out pets, leans, snuggles, and even hugs, its a sure sign theyre bonded to you. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. I remember when he finally started exposing his belly when playing. In theory, there are not arrogant traits. Press J to jump to the feed. And "Rowdy Dog," our Chow dog mix, was indeed a very, very good dog for a very long time. My 4 year old chow Chynagirl is comes to me from time to time to be hugged. My lab ran off about a month and a half ago, and I'm lonely for another dog. Of all the dogs that I've had (and I've loved them all with increasing levels of affection as I've grown older), I've loved my Chow Chows the most. So much so, that for years, we never saw her at family functions (weddings reunions etc) because she simply would not leave her babies in the care of anyone at any time. The man selling the litter of dogs had tried to pass these off as Chows, and when my mother asked him, "Are these really Chow Dogs?" It did not bark incessantly. :=\. Recent DNA analysis confirms that the chow chow is one of the oldest breeds of dogs. My cousin (from Texas) actually raised chows for years. At night was a real trip. by Layla Sat Jun 30, 2007 10:09 pm, Post You couldnt get him to stop licking you. The experience of "owning" a Chow is very rewarding, and should you be a good owner to the dog, then you will have a lifetime of beautiful memories and experiences from this. Otherwise, take it as a compliment! My first doggie was a Chow, adopted from the Toronto Humane Society at two years of age. Chow Chows that are usually affectionate tend to do certain specific things to prove it: It is proven that one of the ways in which the ChowChowshows you affection is by staring into your eyes. I get so angry when people have to have fire crackers around the 4th of July. These animals are noble and dignified who can feel a lot of love for their owners and members of their human families. She was 2 when we got her and knowing how they are I wasn't sure how she'd do with a second owner. Most dogs use sniffing to say hello. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Linda Crampton from British Columbia, Canada on March 08, 2011: I've had several breeds of dog but never a Chow. A family of mine had a chow and that dog was scary! Some Chow Chows could be very affectionate, and that will depend on different factors such as their lifestyle, the love given by their human family, the respect for their territory, etc. The next dog that I getand I will be getting another dogwill be a Chow Chow. In any event, Wes, I have a little background info on Chows via second hand information and observation. I've owned German Shepherds, another very fine and beautiful breed of dog; I've owned Labradors, an exceedingly friendly breed of dog, but only the Chow dog has ever proved to me that he is so utterly and completely devoted to me and my well being that he'd even had the foreknowledge to check blind corners before I get to them. I know, I just said that if your dog is super-excited to see you, it means theyre in love! I also get down on the floor with him and hug/mess with him! If Theyre Arrogant, Can They Still Be A Family Dog? Every morning, when she hears me wake up she will huff and come beside the bed. by cheriekynb Sun Jul 01, 2007 11:11 am, Post Loved reading your post! Of course, clothes- and shoe-snuggling isnt always a good thing. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Chow Chows are an amazing and loyal dog breed. She always has to be in the same room as us and is always checking on what were doing. Although Chow Chows are distant, they will still need the company of their loved ones from time to time. Those dogs, with their lion's mane and their deep growls of confidence and authority, are a force to be dealt with should you be out of place, and they will promptly let you know it. One of the best-known species for various positive and negative aspects is the ChowChow. Eventually he warmed up to me so much so he would protect me. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. If youre used to dogs that lick everyone at a friends BBQs, dont count on the Chow Chow. Wesman Todd Shaw (author) from Kaufman, Texas on April 01, 2011: Hey Christopher! She always greeted me at the door, and was quick to offer her paw to welcome me home.Sometimes when I was sitting on the couch she would walk over to me and if I wasn't paying attention or napping or something she would let out a huff to get my attention and then wag her tail SO hard when I acknowledged her. Gilbert fights for scratch time with Sullivan (they are pretty jealous of each other) but he's submissive and rolls on his back whenever Sullivan gives him a little "I'm the boss" growl. I had a chow chow he was a really great dog my mother was not really kind to me I remember one time my mother tried to bet me like always for no reason But she always put my chew bear outside before she started to bet me But one time I spilled a glass of milk like kids to she ran at me and I screamed and chew bear went off I mean really crazy he Attacked her and she was in the hospital for a while I told my dad what happened when he came back home from his business trip and he let me keep my chew bear and got his Divorce from that hateful mother of mine and told me he always wondered why I always had Bruises on my face and body And mother always said he falls a lot down the steps I spoke up that time for once in my life and he asked my mother why no bruises on his face now this time he comes back home so he got my chew out of the dog pound and we lived happy ever after I will never own any other breed of dog to be with my wife and two sons thir great dogsI have not seen my mother in 46 years now thank god. It's full of great information and people. Wesman Todd Shaw (author) from Kaufman, Texas on June 04, 2014: I so love chows. Theyre also not very keen on a rough play, nor running. I don't think I've seen a chow anywhere in years. Puppies are usually fairly playful and inquisitive, like any other puppies, but this settles down as they grow older. That dog was the best dog I've ever owned. And so, my mother and father returned one weekend with a Chow mix pup. Chow Chows do show love, but they do it differently than most dog breeds. We could not live without our chow,most loyal breed on earth,not a dog for everyone at all,very agressive,very protective, my Chevy likes two people my husband n i,he's our dog,he's never once touched anything while he's home alone,easily house trained,very thick coated,if u don't love to brush then not the dog for u,nobody but me n my husband can touch him period I'm just being honest,if u mistreat them or hit them,it breaks their heart n spirit,their life is spent making every step u make n guarding u every minute,no breed thinks as highly of itself as the chow,they aren't scared of anybody or any animal, when I have company my chow is on people's trail every move n it gets worse the longer they stay,not better,it's scary to people once again I'm being honest,we have given our lives to our boy n its been great,but a chow is not for everyone trust me,mine is very hot natured n we leave our ac on even when we're cold bc chows are very expensive n have allergies n ear yeast often,mine is on grain free,ask me if u want to know anything I'll be honest,if u want a dog that can be touched by strangers or friendly company dogs,do not own a chow,they are weary of strangers,vet cannot touch my chow,I am always at his face its a ritual n ordeal once again I'm being honest,most don't like kids that I've known unless they are raised,my brother can touch my chow he's the only one besides my husband period,he will bite,he hates kids,dogs,horses,n cats,he kills cats if they come around. Are they not illegal?? Chows aren't really "small," but I've never seen one that was as big as a lab, rott, or Shepherd; but I've seen Chows that were a lot bigger than any of mine were. There is something different about Chow dogs. While Chow Chows are not social dogs, and likely are indifferent to most people, their quietness is an inherent trait. Theyre just the traits of a dog who is biologically prone to be more reserved. Sullivan, our diva, tells us when she want us to pet her by nudging our elbow with her nose, but she never wants to be on our laps. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. He's only had one incident where I've seen any sort of aggression (my friend's rottie growled and my chow stood in front of me and growled/barked back until we separated them). Recall, or coming when called, is one of the most important cues for your dog to respond to, because it can keep her safe in potentially dangerous situations. That doesn't change the fact, however, that they are mostly known as Chow Chows. They are my favorite breed. However, you have to bear in mind that these dogs can have a high level of drooling, so you will have to endure it to receive the affection of your pet. They do not require much affection and do not want excess affection. I used to surround myself with both. My male chow will always sit beside me on the couch when I come home from work to get scratched on his chest. Required fields are marked *. She was large, 65 pounds-no fat. This is a breed of dog that values its independence. Why is it so important to be bonded to your dog? I hate the nannies on that website. Later! I have a 2 year old cinammon, fixed, male chow. She waits at the door every time we come home and we hear her barking when we get inside the garage. I enjoyed learning about them. I mean that should I be walking the length of my home, the Chows would run ahead of me and look around the corner to make certain that my path was without intruders or any sort of danger. Hope you are able to get a dog soon ! And you can strengthen your bond by spending quality, one-on-one time with your dog every day, including lots of gentle pets. Chubs too looks at me like I've lost my mind when I'm doing this to him. He actually pushed one of the other puppies away from me when they came up, as if to say nope, she is mine. by Auddymay Sun Jul 01, 2007 10:10 am, Post I cuddle him. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. This is how they show their love for you. It was hilarious! You know, I forgot to mention it in the hub, but our chows never bothered cats at all. I get my dog affection fix from her. Many people are surprised by the temperament of this breed. Wesman Todd Shaw (author) from Kaufman, Texas on August 22, 2018: I would, but I've currently got 3 accounts in 'facebook jail.' That is not how a Chow Chow expresses love. by sed953 Sat Jun 30, 2007 9:48 pm, Post My experience with this one Chow was that it excelled as a guardian and was highly consistent in its behavior; these are highly desired traits that, if guided in the proper direction, would have produced an excellent guard/family dog. Dogs who are bonded to their people tend to look at them a lot. The other female is always love me now. Years later, in talking with her, it was still emotionally difficult for her to discuss it. Instead, theyre more likely to lay by your feet, or near the family. Later, chow chows were bred as general-purpose working dogs for hunting, herding, pulling and protection of the home. My Chow Chow is wonderful. Slowly as she let me pet her, walk her, groom her etc. Such a sweetheart. The Chow isn't a dog that needs or wants constant attention. He lays his head on my foot when I am brushing my teeth. Unlike Chow Chows, not all dog breeds show the same level of loyalty to their human family. Just chows being chows.!!! But I know she loves me even if she doesn't want to cuddle up in my lap. He is a great dog and very well behaved. Afraid our big old cats might beat it up. They are usually either indifferent towards them, or just overall less attached to them. Chows are less expensive, but they are pretty hard to find. She always comes to the door when we get home to greet us. Christopher Antony Meade from Gillingham Kent. To conclude, Chow Chows are a noble and intelligent breed. That bond typically develops through your life with your dog, as you play, train, exercise, and live together. On the other hand, although the ChowChowmay seem a tender, enthusiastic and friendly dog to everyone, the reality is that it can become distant and even aggressive, especially with strangers and other animals. Never had a small dog even though other extended family members did. Theyre known for sitting outside with the family and keeping watch. I know this isn't like a cuddly-in-your-lap thing, but for a chow, that's pretty good! He wanted to be my protector. They are not the type of dog that will enjoy catching balls, like most dogs. Of course, we have no real idea of what he was mixed with, but he displayed a lot of the characteristics of a Chow but was also less inclined to get into fights with other dogs, while at the same time had all of the guard dog and loyalty characteristics of a family Chow dog. He wants nothing more than to sit right outside the door, in the yard, and guard me (from what, I don't think even he knows. Thanks again! Suzie from Carson City on April 05, 2017: Wes.As a dog lover in general, I appreciate any & all sources of information on breeds of dogs and the experiences of individuals who have raised them. This post may contain affiliate links. Every time we get cats they get as big as small dogs - must be how we feed them or something. German Shepherds. I have to comment that from all that I have ever been able to glean, so much of our dog's behavior & tendencies, (aside from instinct, of course) largely results from their training, how we raise them and the dog-owner relationship. It bit me one time simply because I was walking towards my classmate on his unfenced property, but despite its poor training, it would not go after anyone outside of its property. These are quirky dogs so I am sure there are some interesting traits. I could tell from the moment I met him that he was mine and I was his. If you buy, raise, and love a Chow Chow, then the dog will forever love you as if you are its mother, father, brother, and sister. I'm sure biting should count, since that's what they usually like to do with humans who they are not shy with. His expertise is astounding and I have one of his books. I want to be clear that I'm not saying bad things about the Chow. The red chow at top was a very aggressive dog, but he used to just let our cats curl up on top of him, which was very strange to see. In fact, its among the most important bonding activity you can engage in with your dog. She purs like a cat and if I stop before she is ready, she paws at me until I start scratching again. Its very similar for dogs. I hug mine about ten times each day, at the least. However, it takes a long time for your ChowChowto fully trust those around it. I figure those may not be in for such a good outlook for adoption. Basic obedience training is a great way to strengthen your bond. Have had her since she was old enough to be away from her mother. Not all Chow Chows will present the same level of affection as others since that will depend on many factors. I agree with everything you said, I'm from Pittsburgh and would love to find one!! She puts up with it, but would rather guard the house. Chow dogs, however, are simply not dogs that are going to become friends with or friendly towards strangers or even semi-consistent visitors. Elefanza from Somewhere in My Brain on March 08, 2011: Wesman Todd Shaw (author) from Kaufman, Texas on March 08, 2011: Oh, but see, if YOU raised one, then you'd not have to worry at all. While you should never leave a dog alone for more than four hours, including Chow Chows, this is a breed that will happily relax while you do your own thing around the house. My current one is a little teddy bear. But when she'd sit near me, she had the sweetest look in her face. Instead the dog had to be locked in a room whenever company came over. Surprisingly, another reason Chow Chows are labeled as arrogant is because of their loyal nature. Thats because its fur is fluffy, making it look like a teddy bear. . She will now sometimes climb up on the couch with her front paws but will not get all the way up unless I pick her up and hold her in my lap, and when i let go there she goes right back on the floor at my feet making sure I am safe. I guess it's OK. As a result, I would be extremely leery to even consider owning a chow. Now, it should be stated clearly that the Chow Chow is not the most friendly dog that you will encounter in your life. She did however, offer up quite an education on Chows and their very unique personalities (can we use the word, "personalities" for dogs?) When she came into our home she was already 5 yrs old and pretty set in her way. Children are naturally excitable and love to play and cuddle with dogs. I should have spent more time training him. by Lise Carreno Fri Jul 20, 2007 6:02 am, Post She would glare at you if you moved improperly. According to Wikipedia, the Chow Chow (or Chow Dog) is one of the oldest breeds of dogs in existence. He's a giant suck. I am glad for you and the dog though. Of all the dogs that I've had, and I've loved them all, I've loved my Chow Chow the most. She gives us the most disgusted looks when we dote on her, which just makes me want to do it more. He will not let me get in bed without me putting him up there first. Again, if youre expecting a dog that will be overly excitable, and want to please you endlessly a Chow Chow will appear arrogant to you. Check them out on Amazon, Recommended by trainers, veterinarians, pet groomers, and basically everyone I know who owns a dog as the best dog nail clippers on amazon for dogs and even cats. He was my baby, my comfort and my best buddy. kashmir56, thank you very much! Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. Dogs who are attached to their owners are also very attached to their scent, and may snuggle up with their belongingsparticularly extra-stinky ones like clothing and shoes. Karen, Kohana, Takoda, and our Chow Angels Nahkohe and Shiloh, Oh yes, this is what chows do, they are just happy to be by your feet and protecting. He doesn't like to be outside alone, but if you are out with him he would just like you to sit and watch him, not interact with him. Satan himself had best beware in front of the man or woman who's raised a beautiful and wonderful Chow dog, lest the devil lose a chunk of flesh from his rear end. However, Chow Chows sniffing can signify affection and love towards their owners. She would get very excited when I got home and want me to hug and pet her, then she would always stay just out of arms reach. A Chow Chow might be playful in youth and can have playful moments, but compared to other breeds, such as Labradors, these dogs are much more reserved. But let me tell you about my girl Cayenne. They prefer their own space and do not appreciate any overbearing behavior. The other members of the family are secondary. but theyll demonstrate their bond with other signs listed above. I'm still pretty sad about the dog we had coming up missing. Would you agree with this? It scares my Chow Chow so much and I feel so much love for her and feel her pain. United Kingdom on April 01, 2011: That seems to be a very interesting and intelligent breed of dog. Look at me and then put her paws on the bed and start licking me. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. As everyone has said it is definitely his nature! Just adopted a Chow mix from the pound and was nervous about his temperament. :). MyBestBark.com. Hopefully more and more people figure this out and they lose the bad rap they had for so long. I also owned two in my lifetime and would love to have another. We have already mentioned that this breed of dog is distant and can become aggressive on many occasions depending on the context. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Chows love their families far more than they love themselves! I love her independence, and I have a collie that would sit on my lap all day and let me pet and hug herwould never get tired of it. What transpired, sadly, was she gave them up and never went back to raising chows. They do, however, quite like jobs and tasks. In the world at large, eye contact can be seen as a challenge, but in loving relationships, its a sign of trust and love. Good hub man, you brought back some nice memories. My chowgirl Izzy is just 9 months old and she is a better cuddler now that she was a littler. by Mandy Mon Jul 09, 2007 11:46 pm, Post Wesman Todd Shaw (author) from Kaufman, Texas on April 04, 2017: I'm so glad, Ashley, to hear you rescued a Chow mix. 2022 The Arena Media Brands, LLC and respective content providers on this website. Hes a big boy, huge paws. If your canine leans on you, it means that it has a lot of confidence in you and loves you very much. Arguably, it is the generic traits of the breed that give rise to the arrogance claim. I played loud music, made her dance with me. They are not usually as affectionate towards other animals, children, and strangers. Many people adore animals of this type for the physical and emotional benefits they provide. This type of behavior is very rare in Chow Chows. The reliability and trustworthiness of the Chow Chow are strong. Some might be more prone to show affection to the whole family, while others will be more reserved. He was a great boy. I HAVE seen some black labs that could be fairly frightening too though. The other chow they had was much nicer, but I'm still scared of chows. Aw all I want is to snuggle with a chow (I dont have one). Therefore, it isnt easy to think that this canine can be affectionate. Those who find they are not compatible with needy dogs, often appreciate the aloof nature of the Chow Chow. Think about your own eye contact habits; if youre nervous or intimidated by another person, you might have trouble looking them in the eye, but if you trust them and want to show respect, youll meet their gaze. Required fields are marked *, 2022. I (5 years old at the time) took him for walks and loved to pick him up. . When you notice that your canine begins to follow you, it is because it wants to be close to you and spend time with you. wagging the tail and being super attention seeking after a family member coming back from work, or even waking up in the morning. Chows are very smary and loyal dogs one of a kind dogs i had two red and blue chows name king and queen i love them so much i had to give them up cause i had no home for them any more i cry all the time wondering are the ok. Wesman Todd Shaw (author) from Kaufman, Texas on June 18, 2020: @Michaelanthony - I'm really sad to hear about the horrible family situation. Bernestine BrownIm looking for a chow and cant fine one on July 28, 2020: Wesman Todd Shaw (author) from Kaufman, Texas on June 30, 2020: You lost a home and some family members, Octavia. Fil (my chow) occasionally leans into my legs or walks under them if I have my feet up. A man needs a dog, and this really can't be argued. Also liked the pics. All rights reserved. Generally speaking, they will show a lot of affection towards one primarily person. She hates fire crackers and changes from a strong proud protective dog to a scared dog following me everywhere I go, even wanting to get into my recliner with me. Butters will tolerate my cuddling but from noone else. Now, first off, we do not call these dogs "Chow Chows" in Texas; we simply call them "Chows" or "Chow dogs," so from this point on in this article, I'm mostly going to refer to these dogs as either "Chows" or "Chow dogs." would best keep their distance and behave as they should around you, at least whenever your Chow dog is present. by pfordeb Wed Jul 18, 2007 6:24 am, Post He will go to his room most of the time or lay by the front door. Also, they are intelligent, outgoing, and friendly canines with their loved ones. He will then lick you as to say thanks. Yeah, it's a smaller dog, of course, but generally will be more intimidating. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. My cream-colored Chow Chow, "Rambo," had been "apprenticed" by our older Chow dog, "Sampson." He's only a year though. Chow Chows tend to lick when they want to show you affection and love. Tom. There is a great variety of dog breeds, and each one of them presents different characteristics in terms of their physical appearance, abilities, personality, and behavior. Sleeping on feet, or even jumping on sofa and getting very close, even sometimes on top of your lap for a few minutes until they get too warm and going back to the floor. I love Chows!! The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Got him at 6 weeks old. All you Need to Know About Weimaraner Temperament, Weimaraner vs English Setter Whats the Difference, Samoyed vs Chow Chow Whats the Difference. Theyre not needy, they have one primary attachment, theyre very loyal, and they enjoy their independence. those pups cost a ton of money around here. Theyll be too busy guarding their primary owner, and the family. Thomas Silvia from Massachusetts on March 08, 2011: Hi Wesman, great information on the Chow Chow, loved the video to ! The man promptly replied, "These are good dogs!". They are still stubborn and can be protective but not to the degree they used to be. As shown above, they are guard dogs and will keep your family safe. Wesman Todd Shaw (author) from Kaufman, Texas on January 05, 2016: Thanks Judy, I find most dogs are frightened by fireworks, and it is very understandable for them to be so. Always sad to see him go, but he hates being smothered. Recent headlines suggest that dogs may not enjoy hugs, but that doesnt mean they hate physical affection. They show their love through protecting and guarding their family. Mine is super affectionate. I know the chow chow is not the most affectionate dog breed, but they certainly do have their moments. This doesnt mean theyre glued to your side, gazing upon your face 24/7. Maybe I should get a cat, Yep, Lily is content to sit outside all day. It's not the dog that is going to like you very much unless it's your dog. Breeders for the last several generations have been working towards better temperments so in short chows from the 70's 80's 90's will not be like the chows of today. by TJordan Mon Jul 02, 2007 7:05 pm, Post Dogs are so very very wonderful if you treat them well at all. You must be educated for it, though, as the Chow dog has a very strong will and a very dominant personality, especially in regards to persons that the dog is unfamiliar with and other dogs. He will put his paw on your leg or arm until you give hugs and kisses. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns.