Temperament

Their cat-like personalities make them independent, stubborn and less eager to please than other breeds. They are standoffish and aloof with strangers but are dedicated and loyal to their family and those who they allow in their Chow circle of friends. Chows will normally bond strongly to one person in their family who they will treat as their master for life. Because of this strong bond, Chow Chows can be very hard to rehome and therefore if you are considering purchasing one, you must be dedicated fully to keeping your Chow Chow for life. They require early socialization and training, and some kind of exercise daily. The strong willed, stubborn Chow needs an equally strong willed, stubborn owner! This breed has a mind of its own and may easily become your master if you let it. Chow puppies are naturally well-behaved, house trained, seldom destructive or disobedient. Because of their good behavior, some owners feel that training is not necessary. When an untrained Chow reaches adolescence, though, the Chow may refuse to accept authority. We’ve found that most people who experience behavior problems with their Chows failed to train and socialize them properly as puppies. Socialization is the ongoing process in which the Chow puppy is taught to accept new people, other dogs and environments outside his home with politeness and calm. Socialization should begin at birth with regular handling by the Chow’s breeder. Socialization with children is especially important if the dog is to be good with them as an adult and children should be equally well trained.