Chow-Chow, Arkansas, November 2013
The Chow-Chow is an awesome creature with its lion-like appearance and regal manner. The breed dates back to the Chinese Han Dynasty (206 B.C. – 22 A.D.) and some scholars claim the Chow is the original ancestor of the Samoyed, Norwegian Elkhound, Pomeranian and Keeshond.
Chows are the only breed with a blue/black tongue. Just how the breed got the uniquely colored tongue is a mystery. An old fable says that when God was painting the sky blue, He spilled a few drops of paint as He worked. The Chow, which stayed closely by His side, followed after and licked up the paint. From that day on, the Chow-Chow has had a blue tongue!
The Chow-Chow’s disposition is often misunderstood by those who do not understand the breed’s unique nature. Chows were originally bred to guard the Emperor of China’s palace and only royalty were permitted to own the breed. Naturally suspicious of strangers and territorial, Chows take the safety of their homes and family very seriously, as well as their responsibility to protect what they love. The breed saves its affections for those it loves most dearly and finds little reason to seek attention elsewhere. The Chow-Chow expects to be treated with dignity and respect. They will return that respect with undying loyalty and devotion.
Notable Nuances Photography by Susan Wilkinson 