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Are they
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right breed
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"A DOG IS FOR LIFE, NOT FOR CHRISTMAS."
- Diana Phillips, The Chow Chow

Nothing so attractive as the little bundle of fluff and fun we call a Chow Puppy. But, even though it reminds so many people of a toy teddy-bear, we must remember that this cuddly creature is no toy but a living, growing animal with it's own needs and it's own developing character. Owning any dog brings with it ongoing responsibilities which should not be lightly entered into. A chow is a most rewarding and wonderful companion but it is important that you understand the innate charater,needs and behavior of a Chow and match them with your own expectation for your prospective pet, since a mismatch would be a disaster for both you and the Chow.

Chows grow into a medium-sized, dignified,intelligent adult. A full grown chow will be approximately at knee-height to the average person. The Chows high grade if intelligence and reasoning means that he requires to build his living relationship with his/her owner in order to respond. A Chow does not respond without seeing a reason for the response. The Chow can be self-willed almost to obstinacy, but his/her wishes usually comply with those of his master or mistress. The Chow is utterly loyal and devoted to his family and chosen friends.

A Chow will quietly guard your house and property, the famous scowling expression giving a forbidding appearance to unwelcome visitors. They are a wonderful wacthdog, only barking when necessary. Intelligently a Chow learns quickly who is friend and foe. But a Chow is not a dog to be chained and encouraged to be a ferocious guard.

The Chow is very happy in the country or city providing he can have sufficient exercise. Your country Chow may find enough exercise within his/her own yard only needing walks as a mental stimulant, but the city Chow must have daily exercise. Moderate amounts of exercise are required, not as much as the larger, sporting breeds. Exercise off the lead is not recommended as his/her independence can lead them astray! It is most important the any home the Chow is living that there is a secured fence.

If you have children a Chow is an ideal companion and guard for them. (This can vary from different Chows and also what age the Chow is and the kind of enviornment it has been around) Chow's love children. But,whilst they will accept roughness from a child, it must be your responsibility to see that your child treats the Chow with kindness and thoughtfulness at all times. Mutual respect will make for mutual love and respect.

The Chow is a long-lived breed. They are slow to mature, many not reaching their best until about four or five years old. They are mostly still young in there ways at twelve and most live till about fourteen or fifteen years old. Are you ready to devote so many years into the future to your dog? Their loyalty means that you should be prepared to enter into your commitment with them for the duration of their life. Do you have the time to spare? The grown Chow will take part of every day for companionship and the attention they require and deserve. A Chow is not there to feed, clean up after and forget. They need your time and they will richly reward you for it.

If your looking for a dog which will instantly obey without question, which do popular trick, be a cheap burglar alarm or a smart status symbol, then forget it now! But if your looking for a faithful, devoted, intelligent and hansom companion, then buy one!

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If you have questions or would like information about seeing a Chow Chow. Please send inquires to Northern California Chow Chow Adoption. Also if you have any information, opinions or ideas that is related to Chow Chows and would like to possibly see it at this site please let us know.