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HELP! First time Chow Mommy

Posted: Wed Feb 15, 2017 5:12 pm
by Tarren21
My husband and I just rescued a 3 year old female Chow named Remington. She was with a couple for most of her life, then about 4 months ago was relocated with a new family. I obtained her from the new family yesterday.
We have a 3 year old male part yorkie part miniature australian shepherd, weighs about 32 lbs. His name is Buster and he is very sweet and playful in nature, and gets along great with other dogs.
The family we got Remington from had a male husky mix and a 18 month old daughter. She got along with the members of the household fine, and I was expecting some reservations from her once I brought her into our home, but even after the research about Chows I've done, I don't think I'm as prepared for her transition here as I could be until I get some first hand advice from fellow Chow owners.

When I brought her home she did fine in the car ride, but would not come near me once she was in the house. I let her into only one room to adjust to her surroundings. The previous family would let her out to potty on a lead attached to a ground stake. I have one in my yard, and after a few hours asked if she wanted to go outside, to which she perked up and understood the question, but wouldn't get close enough to let me clip her collar to the lead. When she did get close enough for me to reach, she would flinch and run off. I would then continue about my home and my routine and let her investigate further ( I had shown her the food and water bowls which she did drink from). But when I would address her by name and prompt her she still showed no interest in cooperating. I tried to have patience and she eventually had an accident in the house. I then opened the door leading into my garage and set up a bed for her there, where she slept last night. This morning, I opened the door to find her standing there and wagging her tail. I greeted her then backed away and let her come in to the house on her own. My husband soon got home for work, and I filled him in on her progress on the first night (he works swing shift so he wasn't there for her arrival) When he got here she did bark for a few minutes and stayed clear of both of us, but I told him to just let her be while I went to work. She doesn't seem to mind my other dog at all, and they have introduced themselves to each other fine. My husband kept her in the enclosed living area with him today while he napped and she stayed on the floor near the couch he was sleeping on. When I came home from work she greeted me at the door with my other dog and actually licked me and let me pet her a bit. Then she became reserved again when I asked her about going outside. She approached my husband nonchalantly and he was able to put the leash on her and let her out. She used the bathroom but spotted a cat and did not want to come back in. When she approached the front door to come inside, I reached to take off her leash and she kind of freaked out. She grabbed my hand with her mouth, which sounds like a bite but it wasn't hard and did not hurt at all. It didn't scare me so much as it alarmed me. She was coaxed in at that point with a bit of sausage, and has been roaming around the house since just sniffing and observing.

She will wag her tail at times I speak to her, and she seems like she is just very nervous. I just am in new territory and want to be doing what is best by her. Any advice would be amazing!! I know she is just going to need some time to adjust but if there's anything else I can do I would love some feedback!

Re: HELP! First time Chow Mommy

Posted: Thu Feb 16, 2017 10:52 pm
by Constantina
This poor baby was displaced that is why she is feeling a bit lost and insecure. Chows are a one master dog. They may love the whole family but their undying loyalty will be to one. She probably bonded with her previous owner then they 'betrayed' her by giving her away. She is not yet sure if she should trust you and is hesitant to bond in case she does not stay as her 2nd owner turned her over to you as well. The way I see it you and your hubby are doing everything right. Looks to me she is bonding or feels more at ease with him though. Men have funny energy. They tend to be calmer and more assertive which dogs need and are looking for.

I am glad you did not take that nip as an aggressive bite. You are on the right track and your dogs (bless them) being there are helping her into the transition. Only time will reassure her that you intend to keep her. Thanks so much for opening your heart and home to an adult Chow.

Re: HELP! First time Chow Mommy

Posted: Sat Feb 18, 2017 7:53 am
by Tarren21
Thanks so much! Update, she is doing amazingly well.
She has warmed up to both of us and will let me put her on her lead now. She prefers to cuddle when she can, and will sit on your lap if you're in the couch or chair. She has even started to play with toys, and licks me in the face!
We are so happy we chose to add her to our family!

Re: HELP! First time Chow Mommy

Posted: Sat Feb 18, 2017 10:10 am
by Constantina
I am so happy I could cry \:D/ . Your home and family was really the right one for her. A three year old Chow is usually set in their ways but your household had the perfect formula. She feels secure and part of a pack now. Such a beautiful and elegant cream girl.

Re: HELP! First time Chow Mommy

Posted: Sat Feb 18, 2017 11:46 am
by Tarren21
I honestly did cry when she finally came around! haha, just so happy she finally knows she's safe :)

Re: HELP! First time Chow Mommy

Posted: Sun Mar 05, 2017 1:47 pm
by rmb
WHat a beautiful girl. Thank you for for taking her in and sharing your story.
May you live happily ever after : )