Here are some basic principles for socializing the Chow Chow. Lift up your puppy and give him face-to-face loving. Tell him that he's a handsome boy (or a darling girl). The puppy may squirm or squeal, but in time he will accept your handling. Socialization is the process by which the Chow gets to like being handled. Pick him up as often as you can! If you're home with the puppy all day, make this your ritual every time you enter the room. When a friend comes to visit, or your son or daughter comes home from school, pass the puppy to him or her. Let other people handle the puppy and talk to him. Petting the puppy makes the puppy feel loved and a part of the pack. If you don't have a young son or daughter, or a niece or nephew, enlist the help of some friendly neighborhood kids. You must let your puppy meet little people. Encourage the puppy to play games with you and your young friends.
Because Chows can be somewhat independent and indifferent to people, early socialization is very important with this breed. When a stranger to your dog comes into your home, pick up your puppy and hand him to the newcomer so that the puppy will become used to being handled by more than one individual. Have the neighborhood children visit your puppy and show them how to hold the puppy in their laps and pet him—under your supervision, of course! When he has had his vaccinations, take him on short trips in the car with you so that he will become accustomed to riding in a car.
Since Chows can feel threatened by strangers, it is important that you let strangers pet him when you are out and about with your puppy. Ask the individual who is interested in your puppy to bend over to his level and pet him. And then, when he is ready and old enough, take him to a local dog show so that he can become used to other dogs and a crowd of people.
Next step: Fun Activities for Your Chow Chow!
Reprinted from Breeders Best: Chow Chow © 2004. Permission granted by Kennel Club Books, an imprint of BowTie Press.
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