My Chow of 12 years died in his sleep. What is the average...

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Answer by veroni1
Submitted on 10/18/2003
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I have a chow now, he is 12 years old and was doing fine until 2 months ago when he was barely moving. I rushed him to the vet I knew he was in congestive heart failure ( I am an ICU nurse and had listened to his lungs with my stethescope at home) I was right the vet said his lungs sounded horrible, he put him on Lasix pills ( which is a diuretic -makes you urinate lots to get the fluid off his lungs and started him on a heart pill he takes every day, which helps with the weak heart and keeps him urinating. We took him off the Lasix pills after 1 week, the vet checked him & his lings were clear ( thank GOD). So now he is only on the heart pill every day. I have noticed he has his good days & bad days, meaning he is playful one day & then the next kinda of tired. I take great care of him, I have had him since he was 4 WEEKS OLD, he is my child. During the day while we are at work he is outside in the shade with lots of ice water, as soon as one of us gets home we bring him in, he sleeps inside the house at night. I do whatever it takes to keep him comfortable and breathing easy. I also had to start him on special dog food, for dogs with heart problems. Between his pills and dog food a month I guess I pay around $ 100.00 and he gets checked once a month to make sure his lungs are clear. I think he is worth every penny. I am sorry to hear about your loss, makes me nervous because Rocky is 12 years old. I asked my vet, who has ben a vet for over 20 years how long do chows live, he just said it depends on how there health is, he really couldn't even give me an answer. I do not know how long Rocky will live, or if this heart medicine will keep working, I can only pray. As long as he is not suffering or hurting I will do everything I can. If Rocky does pass away, I hope it happens like your chow did, peaceful in his sleep and not in any pain. I am sorry again for your loss, but that was the best way he could pass if it was his time. No one understands the love one has for a chow unless you are the sole owner, everyone thinks they are mean and moody, maybe some are, but they are also very loyal to the ones they love. Hope someone else writes with more chow info. I would love to hear some more. Thanks, Veroni1

Answer by nicole
Submitted on 5/14/2004
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I have a 4 year old chow chow now and I have had chow chow all my life. I would not dream of getting any other type on dog. when I was younger we had a dog that was a lab and that dog got into more fights with other dog than anything. To the people who posted all chow can go to hell and they would never own a chow chow again obviously you are not the proper breeding to be a chow chow owner. My chow chow is the cleanest dog. He would never does anything in the house. When I take him for a walk he doesn't even like walking in puddles of water, that would get is paws wet which he just can't stand!! chow chow are the most independent dogs. They don't really need all the affection a lab needs which adds to their regal charm. When they want affection from you they will seek it. That is why Chow Chow owners are a special breed.

Answer by STephie
Submitted on 8/24/2004
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I have a 3 in a half year old beagle/lab named Cookie & a 9 year old female chow named Keisha.My Beale/lab has bit me more times than I can count & my chow has never bit me.But all kind of people are saying they wont give me & mom home insurance because we have a visious dog the chow but it's o.k for beagle/lab.My chow is very sick,I don't know if this is normal for chows to get this sick when they hit a certain age but she is scaring me & my mom.She is like my child,I have had her since she was 4 weeks old. She has pus in her eyes-that we have to clean out Ali the time,she is not eating,she is just drinking water,she is not letting us know when she has to go to the bathroom,she has loose biles.I don't know what to do.We already had at the E.R Vet & she was on a special diet & meds.But it did not help.I a on low income & so is my mom.We don't have money till the 1st of Sept.And we need money for a place to move.The vet won't take payments.I'm just worried I'm going to wake up & Keisha's going to be dead :(

Answer by Shelley
Submitted on 9/22/2004
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Hi, I have a Chow and have had him since he was 6 wks old. His name is Homer. My husband bought him for me for Christmas when we moved into our home. He is now 10 yrs. old and has some problems getting up with arthritis. I would not give him up for anything or anyone. He is well behaved and we have never had problems with him with people or other dogs. We did have to have his eyes done when he was just a pup and he had to be nuetered because one of his testecles was twisted or the vet said he would die because it would become a tumor. We also have a Dalmation which my son in the marines gave us she is 9 and they get along beautiful. We do shave our chow down in the spring and fall because his coat is so heavy. He is black. So as for fecees on the dog above. I suggest that you shave around his back area or shave him right down. it doesn't hurt. and my chow seems to be more comfortable

Answer by Chowlover
Submitted on 11/28/2004
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I have a female chow who is going on 12years old, and still acts like a puppy in nature, she is the mother of my cat, meaning she looked after him from a baby and breast fed him, i have since took in 3 other chows that needed a home cause of behavour problems, I gave them unconditional love, and trained them until i could place them in suitable homes. since i have found each of them a proper home there doing great I visit the 3 year old each week and he's not a attacker no more, the 10 year old became very sweet too, goes to show that dogs need love and attention and lots of patience to turn around, once they see they are loved they become great lover back....I love chows and to the person who made a rude comment about them.....perhaps your just mad you dont have one and we do....otherwise why would you come here? envying us no doubt!!!!!!......CHEERS TO ALL CHOW OWNERS

Answer by TS
Submitted on 12/11/2004
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I miss my chow,she was 9 years old and had just died yesterday. Seems that the bloat disease had killed her. I am so sad, I still expect her to be on the floor lying around or chasing squirls up trees or barking at the sign of someone coming to the door. She died in my arms yesterday after the vet told my wife to keep close watch on her and call back in a few hours. It has been 24 hours since her death. She was very loyal and loving. She loved going on car rides and treat time. AS I hold my head in my hands thinking about her I think how I am going to get over this. I try to think about good times but it just makes me sad. I miss her very much. I cannot say anymore about her...it is making me feel worse. I love my Nala and she will always be in my heart.......-TS

Answer by Florenda Pham
Submitted on 4/12/2005
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Hi Iam Florenda Pham and i have a chow named Brownie. He got taken away by the Animal Control and it was just today. I am still crying because i love him and i miss him. He got taken away because he runs away and attacks ones who r stangers that teases him. He is really loyal to his family and not to strangers. I love him and i miss him. The animal Control guy is goin to re-train him and he said he dosent promise but will try to gie brownie back to me if he can and i really miss him... I just want you to knoe my chow is my life i love him so much he has done so much. I love him and i would want to let everyone out there to knoe they only love you if you love them! Love, Floe

Answer by Ally
Submitted on 6/5/2005
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I have a 12 yr old chow with Addisons (an adrenal gland disorder), and for the last 7 years has needed a $120 shot every three weeks. I call her my sweet money pit, but its been worth it. She was quite a handful for her first few years, but as it turns out that was probably due to an overactive adrenal gland. When it quit working, she became an angel. Very sweet, although not to strangers if I'm not in the room. Now she's 12, blind, and very arthritic, but we keep each other happy :). Putting her down will be tough, but we have a vet who loves her almost as much as I do 9probably because 7 years ago she was in a coma and almost died and the vet pulled her back. My vet has promised to let me know when it is time. Not yet :)

Answer by tanya
Submitted on 6/10/2005
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I have a chow chow who is 17 years old. I fell in love with him when he was just 8 weeks old. A friend in the military with me had him, but couldn't keep him..so I had him follow me to the mac machine and withdrew the cash to buy him. I've never known another dog with such a unique personality. He's moody..but not in a bad way. I've seen him frown, and even smile. I've never doubted for a minute his love and affection towards me, and I'm sure that he knows how much i just love and adore him. His health is fair considering his age. His sight is poor, and his hearing is almost gone, but he can still communicate with me. in his old age I feel that I should show him the respect that he has earned over the years. he has been nothing but loyal, well behaved, and just plain fun. His name is Boo Boo, he's a black chow with a gray muzzle now....and I'll never forget him and have pledged to remain loyal to the breed .

Answer by Kelly
Submitted on 7/13/2005
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To the people complaining about Chows being unfriendly or stubborn I would suggest educating yourself before you go out and get a dog. Chow's aren't aggressive unless they've been misbread or mistreated. They are very gentle and loyal dogs who are very protective about their loved ones. Their owner should always be with them when they are meeting strangers. Their personality is more like a cat than a dog, they are much more independant and less emotionally needy than other breeds. They have dignity and unlike other dogs, you have to earn their respect and loyalty. If you are looking for a pliable dog this is not the breed, it is the responsibility of prospective dog owners to look into the breed before they aquire an animal and if this isn't something you've done then perhaps you aren't ready for the responsibility.

Answer by Harley's Mom
Submitted on 10/28/2005
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My Chow, Harley, is 10 and is the love of my life. I cry just thinking about making the decision to put him down if something goes wrong with his health. I sympathize with anyone going through that but that is part of owning a dog, loving it enough to make that horrible decision of when it's in too much pain. It's the least you can do for the lifetime of companionship its given you. Harley, registered name '95 Fat Boy Harley, after the motorcycle, the year he was born and the fact that he was the fattest of the litter, picked me by coming to sit in my lap CONSTANTLY when I was at the breeder's house picking my dog. I went for a female white chow, I left with a black male chow. It was the wisest investment I've ever made. Harley's the sweetest bear and most loyal friend. He's never been aggressive toward children or other dogs, he's protective but not mean, will put himself between me and people we meet in the street but not make any move toward them, just present himself like if they do something wrong, he'll skin them alive! I agree with everyone who told the "go to Hell" creep... you're not enough person to handle a Chow. You're more of a cat person, I'd bet.!!!

Answer by tony cruz
Submitted on 1/3/2006
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We have a 12yr old chow and he is the greatest dog. My nephew got him when he was only seven month old and i told him i did not want a dog and here it is 12 yrs later and he is still my dog. I love BJ, he is everything you read here. moody, a grump at times, very loving when he wants it, and very protective of everyone in the house. When we have company the first thing we tell them is about BJ, let him smell and he will go on his way. chow's are just misunderstood, yes the hair can get every where two times a year and the allergies here in Virginia are bad but i would not trade the time that i have had with my chow for any other dog in the world. i also had a beagle and that was his sister he loved her and would not let any other dog next to her. unfortunately i had to put my beagle to sleep and now BJ is showing his age and is having problems walking. but i will take good care of him and help him live the life that he deserves. He is the king of my house. Chow Chow's are the best dogs to have, and would not trade a chow for any other dog.

Answer by Vt chow owner
Submitted on 6/28/2006
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We have a chow / american Eskimo mix and well although I wouldnt have ever picked this type of dog as one to own ... I wouldnt trade her for the world... ya see my 24 year old daughter about 5 years ago brought this fluffy lil baby dog into my home and asked me if i could take her for a week ... well 5 years later the week never ended and this dog has saved my life.... ya see she smelled and pointed out the Brest cancer tumor I had and thanks to her I found it in time and treatment worked for me. She is sweet and gentle unless you r a stranger at the door... and like others i have read she hates to get her feet wet.. she also likes to take care of my 12 year old deaf springer spaniel..its amazing how protective she is with my 12 year old daughter and my 5 year old grand son.. and of course my self ... as I said in the beginning I never would have thought I would have chosen this bread for my self but ASIA is here to stay and I love her and wouldnt trade her for the world...

Answer by ljacobs
Submitted on 7/26/2006
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I have been reading up on chow websites and found a site that is very anti-chow. This site advocates being aggressive towards chows, not socializing them or encouraging others to pet them and advocates severe physical punishment of these magnificent animals. I must say that this man's dislike of chow chows stems from his ignorance in how to handle them. Chows demand a firm and consistent correction but never physical punishment and you should never try to dominate a chow. I think it is woefully irresponsible for this man to badtalk this wonderful breed and recommend this dangerous means of punishment. Love your chow puppy and hug it all day long and your likely to never encounter any problems at all with this noble breed.

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Question by Reggie
Submitted on 7/7/2003
Related FAQ: rec.pets.dogs: Chow Chow Breed-FAQ
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My Chow of 12 years died in his sleep. What is the average age of the breed. Sincerely , Reggie Patterson

Answer by Merlin
Submitted on 7/19/2003
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I have owned 4 in my life time. One passed away at 12 years old the other at 15. My neighbour has a Chow that is 21 and still running around. Alot would depend on outside contributing factors such as where you live, what you fed your chow throughout your chow's lifetime, level of exercise, etc. Large dogs I think, don't live as long as smaller dogs, but I guess I wouldn't find it "odd" that a chow passed on at the age of 12. Merlin's Mom http://polonews.com/merlin

Answer by Dale
Submitted on 7/22/2003
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Depending on who you ask, the average is 11 - 15 years. My dad had a male chow that lived to 12 1/2 years old. The other is 10 and still going strong. -Dale-

Answer by chow
Submitted on 10/29/2003
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I hate chows they can all go to hell

Answer by nekohina
Submitted on 11/19/2003
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Well, we have a part breed chow right now and she, of course, hates everyone, so she HATES YOU BACK!!! She also has an obseession with our cat. You say the word "kitty cat" and she gets hyperactive.

Answer by Tanisha
Submitted on 1/1/2004
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All dogs are special to their owners in one way or another and I think it is VERY rude of you to say that about this breed. Dog's become a part of their owner and if you say something bad about the dog it hurts the owner. I don't think there is such a thing as a dog that deserves to go to hell. Tanisha

Answer by cagbgb
Submitted on 1/1/2004
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I have a chow mix. She is now 14 years old. Everyone is telling me to put her to sleep. She is blind. She is very bony. The vet was concerned because she lost 25 lbs. She eats and drinks and goes to the bathroom in the yard. She swats at her eyes sometimes because I know they hurt her and they drain and get crusty. I clean them out for her. I am struggling with putting her to sleep because I have NEVER put a pet to sleep and this thought kills me. PLEASE help.

Answer by anonymous
Submitted on 1/21/2004
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We have a 12 year old chow, and Brandy has been nothing more than a headache for me and my dog Daisy. Daisy, a black labrador, moved with me into my wife's home (back before we got engaged). Brandy has Colitis, which I find to be extremely nasty. The feces get trapped in her fur, which is just very gross. We will NEVER get another chow (Brandy is a Chow/German Shepherd mix) or any kind of dog with long fur. Yuck. And Brandy's personality as a dog is horrible, she isn't the least bit affectionate.

Answer by Marilyn
Submitted on 3/12/2004
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I have owned and lived with chows for 20 years. I think they are the greatest dog, each with their own unique personality. I introduced my husband to the breed and he agrees with me, although the chow chow is not for everyone. My chows love children and are very protective toward them. I don't believe there is such a thing as a bad chow, just bad owners.

Answer by marcy
Submitted on 3/16/2004
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I have a 7 month old red chow. He is a wonderful companion for all my family. My husband at first didnt want this breed because of the aggressive behavior they can have. But now he is very pleased with our chow and how he loves our children. We have always had him in a social environment, so he would adapt to others. A chow is how you make them, and how they are raised.

Answer by Mary
Submitted on 3/25/2004
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To the person who wrote all chows should go to hell, with your attitude you'll be there before them. As for the person who wrote you would never have another chow, I'm sure chows owners all over the country are breathing a sign of relief. Chows are too noble of breed for either of you to own. Chows are particular in who they allow to own them and it does not sound like either of you are up to their standards.

Answer by Marti
Submitted on 3/31/2004
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To the moron that wrote, they hate Chows, why we're you even on the sight??? Chow's are like anything, you have bad breeding or teaching skills, or someone chooses to use you as their kicking post, you bite back!! I have a 8 yr old Chow and a 7 yr old Lab, and my Chow has NEVER been aggressive to anyone, but not my Lab... For those of use who love Chow's have to understand the nature of the beast, and we obviously have much more understanding and appreciation for the original "Wolf Dog" since they are direct ancestors. Get you facts straight before you put yourself out there to represent the idiots in the world.

Answer by K
Submitted on 4/26/2004
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My chow chow friend is 13 years old. We have to put her to sleep though because she has some kind of problem. I'll miss her.

Answer by stacey
Submitted on 5/18/2004
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I have a chow and springer spaniel mix she is 13 years old, the only health problem she has is arthritis. She takes medicine everyday, other than that she is the greatest dog.

Answer by nikitachow
Submitted on 6/28/2004
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We have two chows, a 13 y/o chestnut male and 14 y/o honey blond female. they are very independent and gentle dogs. He has severe arthritis is bony and needs a boost to stand up in the past year. She is legally blind/blond with frequent urination and suffered a few strokes this past year. Their health this past year is a sign that we must respect their age. We love them and our son does, too. We take it one day at a time with lots of TLC. If you have the patience for chows, there's a lot to be proud of. I'm sorry we never had a litter.

Answer by Jen
Submitted on 8/19/2004
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To whomever had the audacity to say that they "hate chows and they can all go to hell," well, I hope YOU do! My 7-year-old Chow is the most precious thing in the world to me. He's always been the most energetic, loving dog, even when he's not feeling well. You obviously have no regard for ANY living things, to make a horrible comment like that. I trust (and hope) that you are a very lonely individual.

Answer by !st time chow chow owner
Submitted on 10/17/2004
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I have 6 month old chow who's father is 12 years old, and he dosen'tlook like he's slowing down at all.

Answer by bertpotts
Submitted on 11/14/2004
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I have had several chows and all have been the best of any dog I have ever owned. someone poisened my blue male at age 8. and they will go to hell for that. my female who was the mother of the blue pup is now 13 years and going strong , I would never own any other breed, they are the most loyal and smartest dogs around, they will die to protect thier family.

Answer by brianpeck
Submitted on 12/3/2004
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my chow is six. I found out today that he has a tumor in his hip that can not be removed. The vet said most dogs who get this must be put down within six months. My dog is already in pain, but seems happy otherwise. I am very sad.

Answer by Lisa
Submitted on 1/30/2005
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I have two chows. After my first one Boomer, who is eight, I fell in love with the breed. My husband and children decided to get him a friend, Pooh, who is four. Chows are loyal to their family. We have two cats, as well, and neither one of are chows have gave them anything but love. The cats even give them baths. As a chow owner I understand they are a one family dog and that is fine. I am sorry to hear for your sorrow. They are a member of the family.

Answer by pitbullsrule
Submitted on 2/13/2005
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I agree. Chows are horrible dogs and the world would be better with out them.

Answer by wookiees mom
Submitted on 3/16/2005
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I had my Chow for almost 12 years. He was my baby, a wonderful loving friend. he touched everyones heart he met. He got very sick suddenly. He died early in the morning on sunday. I stayed up until 3:30am and finally went to bed and he died sometime shortly after that. I feel so bad. Like I let him down for not being with him. I loved him so much and am having a terrible time with the quilt. Why didn't I know he was going to die.

Answer by missing her
Submitted on 3/20/2005
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my chow chow of 10 years 11months died yesterday she showed no signs of sickness i dont know what happened! She was eating and acting like her usual self what could have happened does any one know? Me and my husband got her right after we were married we rescued her from an abusive family i loved her very much and will miss her always.

Answer by Kim
Submitted on 5/14/2005
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I love chows. I had one for 12 1/2 years. His name was Black Jack. He passed away on May 11, 2005. I loved him so much. He was my best friend. He passed out in the yard one day, I think it was heart failure. He had all the skin problems and eye problems, but we got through it. I will never forget him. He will always live on in my heart.

Answer by janet
Submitted on 5/14/2005
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I currently have a 9 year old chow who was recently diagnosed with cancer, I am not sure if I should have her treated, or let her live out the rest of her life peacefully. About 5 years ago I had a 6 year old chow get cancer. We had surgery and he still died within three months. My vet is suggesting surgery to remove a mass on her neck, this mass is not bothering her. I just don't know what to do Any suggestions?

Answer by bob
Submitted on 5/24/2005
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my chow died last nite of heart failure he was 9 years old it has broke our hearts ..it happened so fast we rush him to the hospital and he died in my wife's lap very peaceful...but we don't understand the seems so yound...we love you bear...

Answer by Bob
Submitted on 7/3/2005
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I agree with the person who said Chows should go to hell. There are plenty of great dog breeds from which to select; why waste your life with chows? They're evil incarnate. I'm sure Hitler could've been domesticated, too. Doesn't mean he'd be worth your time.

Answer by dandsons
Submitted on 9/23/2005
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Help please. I have a Chow who was recently injured and had a previous arthritic back. At this time her back legs are paralyzed, but we are not sure if this will remain a permanent condition. Does anyone have a similar experience with this? She is 11 years old. Should I be thinking about the possibility of putting her to sleep. I don't want her to suffer for my selfishness. We love her and will do what we can to rehabilitate her, But not if it's useless or hurting her in any way. Please help. Thanks to you all who love them like we do. ***P.S. Does anyone know of exercises or helpful therapies I can do with her that may help?

Answer by Kent La Rue
Submitted on 11/28/2005
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My chow-chow, Teddy will be 15 this December. We've had him since he was a puppy and he has been the gentlest dog we've ever had. He has had very few health problems. However, over the last two years he has become deaf and and very poor sighted. He often needs help getting up, but he is still happy and enjoys walking (slowly) around the yard. His coat is still very thick and luxurious and you would never guess he is so old. He takes Rimadyl for arthritis which helps at least a little. He sleeps a lot and very deeply.

Answer by shanw
Submitted on 12/11/2005
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i have 10 year old chow nearly 11 he has a tumour in his foot we have taken it to the vet but where not going to put it threw the operation because the vet said he has got a chance of not making it threw the operation.When he goes we are going to miss huggie very dearly. and for those people who said that chows should go to hell you will be going there very soon.

Answer by Sandy
Submitted on 1/7/2006
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We just lost our Chow on Monday and she would have been 12 in March. She had some liver damage, but the Vet does not think this killed her. Our Vet indicated a Chows life span is around 14 or 15 years. I feel very cheated. She was the most loving dog we ever owned. She had a personality like no other dog. I could not have imagined that this type of dog would have been as loving as she was. Chows make the best pets you could ever own. We miss her greatly and are having a hard time with her death. It is very hard to imagine life without her.

Answer by Tara
Submitted on 1/22/2006
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The moron who wrote they hate chows must not have pwned one because i have a chow named sassy and shes a loving animal.

Answer by Chow Lover
Submitted on 1/29/2006
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My chow chow is the cutest chow ever!!

Answer by WEKw5IM0S2
Submitted on 2/19/2006
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Answer by RDi4DDeJqz
Submitted on 3/17/2006
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