Taking Care Of A Chow Chow Dog
It’s important to note that not all dogs are considered seniors at the same age, so it’s important to notice the first signs of aging and take the necessary steps to keep your dog healthy. If you have any concerns about your older dog care, always check with a veterinarian.
Do you want to own a Chow Chow dog, or is it your first time, and you don’t know how to properly take care of them? Well, don’t worry! This article will provide you with information and methods on how to be a good pet owner of this dog breed and .
Chow Chow dogs are pretty obvious to spot. You can instantly recognize this dog breed because its features are unique and distinct! Chow Chows are large dogs that have very thick fur and you can also use dog boots — they almost look like a huge puff ball of fur! They have a dense double coat, and their colors are usually black, blue, red, fawn, cream, and, most especially, brown. This dog breed is usually large in size, which is why you should definitely consider having sufficient space if you have one.
Chow Chows are originally from China, and they’re one of the oldest dog breeds in the world since they have been alive since the Han dynasty, 206 bc–AD 220. Plus, chow chows are also considered genetically close to wolves. This dog breed originally had the purpose of herding, protecting, and hunting, which means they’re practically an all-purpose dog!
A Chow Chow’s characteristics are pretty different from any other dog breed. Because aside from being a big, heavy, and thick-furred dog, they are also known to be a spitz-type dog breed that has a blue-black tongue, small, triangular ears, and stilted gaits. Chow Chows are an excellent dog breed that will do well as a family dog. They are loyal to their owners, trainable, protective, and quiet. However, they may tend to be aloof with strangers and children, which is why socializing them earlier is encouraged.
Giving the best and proper medical care for your Chow Chow dog is essential so they may have a long life and won’t have serious illnesses in the future. If you plan to own one, there are lots of top vets in Albany, both physical and online, that can give your dog quality treatment.
- Lifespan and Temperament
A Chow Chow’s life span is estimated to be 9–15 years. However, this may vary depending on how well your dog is and how well you can take care of it!
Chow Chows are known to have dog odors, but they are clean, and they tend to be fastidious. They tend to be cautious around strangers and aggressive toward fellow dogs, but training and socializing them often can solve this problem. Chow Chows can be good guard dogs, and they are loyal! Having them certainly won’t make you regret it.
- Meal Time
For Chow Chow puppies, vets recommend that you only feed them small portions and regulate what and how much they eat. In fact, 1 ½ cups a day of meal will do. While for adults, it’s recommended that you feed them at least twice a day and avoid overfeeding them, as this can make their tummies bloated. Remember to do research on what foods are toxic for dogs to keep them safe.
- Grooming
One thing you should know is that these dogs can be pretty high-maintenance in terms of grooming. Since they have a thick amount of fur, there’s a possibility that they may often shed and mess up the house, which is why they require frequent brushing so they may have a clean coat. Trimming their fur often is also not necessary since their thick fur will serve as their protection from cold weather. Chow Chows can be bathed not longer than six weeks. You may also trim their nails, but remember to be careful!
- Training and Exercise
Chow Chows are independent dogs, but training them is not so difficult. Training them is encouraged so they may learn to behave and become obedient pets. Just use reward-based methods and remember not to overwork them! They also need frequent exercises; at least walking them 1 hour per day will do to keep their bodies healthy.
- Health
Hip and elbow dysplasia, allergies, thyroid function, and eyelid entropion. But don’t worry, since they are often curable illnesses. Remember to give them the annual vaccines and boosters that they need, such as vaccines and parvo, to help them become more healthy and protected.