Chow Chow: How should an owner handle adolescent behaviour changes?
When a young Chow Chow becomes less reliable, return to the last version of the behaviour that was working and rebuild from there. Schedule the first attempt after the dog's normal age-appropriate outlet, not at peak excitement. Return to easier cues, shorten sessions, increase reinforcement, and manage the environment while skills are rebuilt. Keep the easier version in the routine while reliability returns; do not test the hardest version every day.
What can change during adolescence
Chow Chow's exercise is recorded as The Chow Chow is an active and alert dog with moderate exercise needs. Here, that matters because it changes the amount and timing of movement, stimulation, and recovery this situation needs.
Rebuild the behaviour you want
- Return to easier cues, shorten sessions, increase reinforcement, and manage the environment while skills are rebuilt.
- Use this exercise note (The Chow Chow is an active and alert dog with moderate exercise needs) to choose the starting amount of movement and the length of the recovery period.
- Keep the easier version in the routine while reliability returns; do not test the hardest version every day.
Arrange an assessment if
Escalate for sudden personality change, pain, disorientation, or aggression that cannot be safely managed.
References
Height: 17-20 inches
AKC page PageMap DataObject > height
Weight: 45-70 pounds
AKC page PageMap DataObject > weight
Life expectancy: 8-12 years
AKC page PageMap DataObject > life_expectancy
Grooming: Both the rough- and smooth-coated Chows have a profuse double coat and require regular grooming. Thorough brushing at least twice per week and a monthly bath can keep the dog's skin and coat healthy. Be sure to immediately remedy any parasite issues, such as fleas or ticks. Include eye and ear care with each grooming, and trim nails regularly. Puppy coat…
AKC page Grooming > official section copy
Exercise: The Chow Chow is an active and alert dog with moderate exercise needs. The Chow requires daily walks and moderate play with toys, with minimal rough play or high-impact exercise. Avoid exercise during hot periods of the day, as the breed does not tolerate high heat or humidity well. A moderate-paced walk four or more times a day will help to keep Chow and…
AKC page Exercise > official section copy
Training: Early socialization and puppy training classes are recommended and help to ensure that the Chow grows into a well-adjusted, well-mannered companion. Patience and positive, consistent reinforcement are the keys to successful training. The Chow Chow is a very intelligent dog but can be stubborn. Harsh training methods are to be avoided in order to develop a…
AKC page Training > official section copy
Official breed description: The Chow Chow, an all-purpose dog of ancient China, presents the picture of a muscular, deep-chested aristocrat with an air of inscrutable timelessness. Dignified, serious-minded, and aloof, the Chow Chow is a breed of unique delights.
AKC page About the Breed > official breed description
Recommended parent-club health tests: ['Patella Evaluation', 'Hip Evaluation', 'Elbow Evaluation', 'Ophthalmologist Evaluation', 'Thyroid Evaluation']
AKC page Health > Recommended Health Tests From the National Breed Club
Official breed standard: http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/ChowChow.pdf
AKC page The Breed Standard > View Full Breed Standard
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