Chow Chow

Feeding a Chow Chow properly is crucial for their health and happiness, especially given their tendency to gain weight and their predisposition to certain health conditions. These dogs aren't particularly active, which makes weight management even more important in Australia's laid-back lifestyle.

The key to feeding Chows is portion control and meal timing. Rather than one large meal, divide their daily food into two or three smaller portions. This helps prevent bloat, a serious condition these deep-chested dogs can develop. Adult Chows should eat at least twice daily, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Never use elevated food bowls, as these can actually increase bloat risk.

Choose a high-quality commercial dog food that meets international standards and is appropriate for your dog's life stage. Many Australian Chow owners prefer low-grain diets, as these dogs can be sensitive to certain ingredients. Always transition foods gradually over 7-10 days to avoid digestive upset.

Watch for food allergies, which are common in this breed. Signs include skin irritation, excessive scratching, or digestive issues. Even changing treat brands can trigger reactions, so keep a food diary if you notice problems. Avoid table scraps, especially fatty foods, cooked bones, and anything containing onions or garlic.

Fresh water should always be available, particularly important during Australia's hot summers when these thick-coated dogs can overheat easily. Consider adding joint supplements with glucosamine and omega fatty acids, especially as your Chow ages, but always consult your vet first. Remember, a lean Chow is a healthy Chow - those extra kilos put tremendous strain on their already vulnerable joints.

Grooming a Chow Chow is a serious commitment that Australian owners need to understand before bringing one home. These dogs have magnificent double coats that require regular maintenance to stay healthy and beautiful, especially in our varied climate conditions.

Both rough and smooth-coated varieties need brushing at least every other day, with daily brushing during spring and autumn shedding seasons. Invest in quality tools: a metal comb with long, widely-spaced teeth and a good slicker brush. The undercoat is incredibly dense, and if you don't keep up with brushing, mats form quickly and can become painful.

Bathing should happen monthly or as needed, using only dog-specific shampoos. After washing, thorough drying is essential - that thick coat holds moisture and can develop skin problems if left damp. Many Australian Chow owners invest in a high-velocity dryer to speed the process, especially during humid Brisbane summers or Melbourne's wet winters.

Pay special attention to the face and eye area. The long hair around their face can irritate their eyes, leading to infections. Daily eye cleaning with a damp cloth helps prevent problems, and regular trips to a professional groomer for face trimming keeps things manageable. Their ears, being erect, are less prone to infections than floppy-eared breeds, but still check them weekly.

Don't forget nail trimming every 3-4 weeks and dental care. Many Australian pet stores now stock dental chews specifically designed for medium breeds. Professional grooming every 8-12 weeks helps maintain their coat and gives you a break from the daily routine. Trust me, your vacuum cleaner will thank you for keeping up with regular brushing!

Training a Chow Chow requires patience, consistency, and a good sense of humour. These intelligent dogs have their own ideas about how things should be done, making them challenging but rewarding companions for experienced Australian dog owners.

Early socialisation is absolutely crucial. Chows are naturally reserved around strangers and can become overly protective without proper exposure to different people, places, and situations. Puppy classes are essential, and continued socialisation throughout their lives helps maintain their confidence. Take them to dog-friendly cafes, weekend markets, and busy parks - just remember they prefer to observe rather than participate in the chaos.

Their exercise needs are moderate, which suits many Australian lifestyles perfectly. Two 20-minute walks daily are usually sufficient, but avoid exercising during the heat of the day. Early morning beach walks or evening strolls through the neighbourhood work well. They're not built for jogging or intense exercise - their thick coats and flat faces make them prone to overheating, especially in northern Australia's humidity.

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle toys, hide-and-seek games, and basic obedience training keep their intelligent minds engaged. Keep training sessions short and positive - Chows get bored with repetition and respond poorly to harsh methods. They're smart enough to know when you have treats and when you don't!

Remember, these dogs were bred to think independently, so don't expect blind obedience. Work with their nature rather than against it, and you'll find they're actually quite trainable when approached with respect and understanding.