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Chow Shepherd |
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He is not recognized by the F.C.I. |
Origin |
China <> Germany -> U.S.A. | |
Translation |
Francis Vandersteen | |
This breed is also known as |
Sheprachow |
A brief presentation of the Chow Shepherd |
| A handsome, lion-like dog, the Chow Shepherd was created by crossing the German Shepherd with the Chow Chow. Both dogs are known for their beautiful coats, and the Chow Shepherd's coat is usually a superb golden color. Most dogs of this breed will retain the longer muzzle and darker face of the German Shepherd's parent, with the strong, sturdy body of the Chow Chow. Not a pet choice for the faint of heart, owners should be prepared for long hours as they not only train their Chow Shepherd, but also provide them with the large amount of exercise they need. With a tendency to want to be in charge and protect their property, these dogs need early and intensive socialization if they are to tolerate house guests. |
History of the Chow Shepherd |
| The breeder's aim was probably to create an even fluffier, more lion-like dog, and this was the magnificent Chow Shepherd, also known as the Sheprachow or German Chow, a cross between the loyal Chow Chow and the courageous German Shepherd. As is the case with most specific cross-breed dogs, we know very little about when and where the Chow Shepherd was developed. A relatively rare crossbreed, it's likely that this new breed was created around ten to twenty years ago. |
A little of the Chow Chow |
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| Chow Chows are known to be truly ancient dogs that have been around for over 2,000 years. Although we know they belong to an oriental breed, their exact origin is a matter of debate. Most claim they are Chinese, but some claim they could be Mongolian. They are said to have served many purposes, including as guard dogs, hunters and sheepdogs. The dog became so accepted in Britain that even Queen Victoria owned one. | ||
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| Standard of the Chow Chow | ||
A little of the German Shepherd Dog |
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| The German Shepherd is an incredibly well-known breed that was established in Germany at the end of the 19th century. Its ancestors were used as working dogs, driving livestock through the fields and protecting the farmer's property. Captain Max von Stephanitz was the man behind the founding of the breed. He drew attention to local sheepdogs and bought several to breed together to create the ideal German Shepherd Dog. | ||
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| Standard of the German Shepherd Dog |
Appearance of the Chow Shepherd |
| The Chow Shepherd tends to look like a good mix of its two parent breeds, but it's important to remember that predicting the appearance of any mixed-breed dog is an impossible task, as even those from the same litter can vary considerably in appearance. As a general rule, this breed will have the soft, fluffy coat of the Chow Chow and the facial features of the German Shepherd. The Chow Shepherd has a lean, well-muscled body, solid and well-proportioned. They have the dark brown eyes of the German Shepherd and larger ears than the Chow Chow, which can be erect or hang semi-erect. Their muzzle is longer than that of the Chow Chow and ends in a shiny black nose. Their tail varies, from curling over the back like that of the Chow Chow to being longer and straighter than that of the German Shepherd. The Chow Shepherd's coat is of medium length, extremely dense and fuzzy. Many will have a visible, thick mane around the neck. Several coat colors are possible, although most are golden red with a dark black face mask. Some will have gray or cream coats, and solid coat colors without facial markings are also possible. Fully grown adults can weigh from 20 to 40 kg and reach a height of 56 to 66 cm. |
Temperament of the Chow Shepherd |
| As the Chow Shepherd can be both dominant and territorial by nature, they are not suitable for homes with small pets or young children, nor a good choice for novice owners. They require a lot of work, but in the right hands, they'll make devoted, loving pets. Perfectly suited to the role of guard and defense dog, the Chow Shepherd is always on guard, and its courage means it will never allow an intruder onto its territory without a fight. This hostility can carry over into their daily lives, which means it's essential to thoroughly socialize a Chow Shepherd puppy to accept visitors. Usually aloof with those they don't know, Chow Shepherds can be affectionate and loving with their owners. They will show great respect for their master and will often need their company and approval. |
Needs and activities of the Chow Shepherd |
| Agile, powerful and full of energy, the Chow Shepherd is a dog that needs an active family to keep it busy. It needs a large, enclosed yard to run and explore. He's definitely not an apartment dog, as fresh air is an essential part of his day. Athletic and confident, he'll make a good hiking or jogging partner, and will need at least two long walks a day. He can excel at agility, flyball or any activity where he can use his brain and body and interact with other dogs. |
Maintenance of the Chow Shepherd |
| Chow Shepherds are a mix of two breeds that are very heavy and have dense coats, which means there's a lot of fur to shed. Expect your Chow Shepherd to have high grooming requirements. Brush him daily with a brush or a smooth bristle brush, and use a plucking brush when the going gets tough. If you brush his teeth at least three times a week, he shouldn't develop any major problems with his teeth, and may only need an annual check-up at the vet. Bathing should only be done when necessary. These dogs should not be bathed regularly unless they get dirty after rolling in something unpleasant. Their nails will be strong and perhaps difficult to trim, so make sure you trim them at least twice a month so that the work doesn't get out of hand. |
English (United Kingdom) 
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