Pansy-Paws
Presenting a Chow Chow's perspective
Other Pets in my Household - Baron - Chow FAQ
Many people have wondered about me ... and the Chow breed, so here's some
answers to questions from some of my fans that will give you a better
understanding of what makes me tick. My hobbies include squirrel watching (and
notification), playing with Mom (and then getting a treat), protecting my
cat friends (woops, that's actually one of my jobs), and being outside in all
kinds of weather.
Dear Baron: I've heard that chows shed a fair bit, but have also read some books that say they only shed twice a year. Well, what's the true story? from Fuzzy in Fernie
Dear Fuzzy: My Mom and Dad say that I hardly ever stop shedding - maybe for two weeks when it gets really cold - which for my area means -10C. I've become resigned to staying still for combing sessions which can last up to 30 minutes and yield 1-2 grocery bags full of black hair. Most books will say that grooming should be done daily, but I think weekly is good enough - just make sure that your parents have a really good vacuum cleaner because the downy hair near my skin is very difficult to remove once it gets on the carpet. I'll get my Dad to take a photo next time we have a big combing session.
Dear Baron: You've got a cute picture of your S-Bear on your site. What does the "S" stand for? from Cuddles in Crofton
Dear Cuddles: How can I put this delicately . . . have you seen dogs that sometimes get the urge to rub up against pillows or sofa legs, or even their masters' legs? Well, even though I was 'fixed' at an early age, the urge still comes upon me, as it does to many neutered (ouch!) dogs. So, Mom got me an S (Sex) -Bear. Hope I haven't grossed you out.
Dear Baron: That's a cool picture of you with blue leggings . . . what's that about? from Isadora in Invermere
Dear Isadora: Those are the blue bandages I had to wear for a couple of weeks after I had an operation on my elbows. The operation was successful, but expensive -- it cost about 200 chew sticks and 500 pig's ears. I was born with pretty gimpy elbow joints and they really started to bother me when I was a couple of years old.
Chow conversion factors: 1 chew stick = $2.00, 1 pig's ear = $1.00
Dear Baron: You seem like such a nice Chow . . . I'm a good Chow, too and wonder why so many people are afraid of us as a breed? from Fang in Fort Nelson
Dear Fang: I know what you mean . . . Chows have gotten a bum rap which isn't warranted - in most cases - just like with pit bulls and rotties. Whenever my Mom & Dad are asked about this, they always say, "There are few bad dogs, but lots of bad dog owners". I'll be the first to admit, that as a breed, we need a firmer hand and more early socialization than a lot of other dogs. We don't need to be around other dogs and would prefer not to. Chows are definitely not everyone's friend -- if that's what you want, get a black lab! But if you're looking for a loyal, gorgeous and rather aloof dog who doesn't need too much exercise -- we're the best! P.S. maybe you should change your name to something more approachable?
Dear Baron: When I go for leash walks with my people, some dogs come running out from their yards at me. I don't want any trouble, but am not sure how to avoid a confrontation without looking like a wimp. I'm too big for my people to pick up (sheltie) and am wondering how you would handle this. Confronted in Campbell River
Dear Confronted: It's happened to me, too. My technique is not to look them in the eye. They can grab a quick bum sniff, but we keep walking, not making direct eye contact. If I pretend that they're not there, I'm usually safe. They get to know that they don't get a reaction from me.
You can also find more information on my breed at this Chow Chow FAQ page or the American Kennel Club breed description.