History
The Labrador-Chows also recognized as Lab-chow mix are designer breed. It is cross between a Chow Chow and a Labrador Retriever. To understand their origin and history we need to understand about its parents first. The Chow Chows are an ancient breed from Asia and were mainly employed as temple guards or hunting dogs. Although the Labrador Retriever is not as ancient as the Chow Chow, they are not exactly a newcomer in the scene. The earliest ancestor of this breed (LR) is the St. John’s dog, a 16th-century water dog that later became extinct. The Lab-Chow is typically calmer than the Labrador Retriever and more outgoing and friendly than the average Chow Chow, although each dog has its individual instincts.
Interesting Facts
- Said to be available in a rare silver grey colour referred to by the AKC as the shade of chocolate.
- Lab Chows love swimming.
- Usually, these dogs have a Labrador’s head and a well built, compact body, with coats in various colours. (ranging from black or brown, through to chocolate and fawn, on to golden, cream, and even red).
- The breed is a loyal companion, affectionate towards the family, with great watchdog abilities.
Temperament & Personality
It is because both the parent breeds have completely different kind of characterial traits and personality, it is difficult to forecast how the personality of an adult Lab-Chow will be. The personality and traits come from which parent’s side the puppy inclines to. They mingle well with the children and other animals in the family. However, if the Lab chow inherits the genes of its Chow Chow parents, it might become aggressive upon seeing strangers and can also become intolerant of other animals. Continuing with the above-mentioned context, it might also have a high territorial instinct. Some Lab Chows may also have an independent strike and stay aloof.
Exercise
The dog needs to burn a lot of energy on a regular basis. Long walks and jogs will help it to calm the need for activity. It also ensures the dog doesn’t get bored easily. A backyard game of fetching and off-leash parks where they can run around and play with other dogs will keep them both physically and mentally fit. Some Lab Chows are also avid swimmers, which may be another activity during summers.
Daily exercise will strengthen their cardiovascular system and build its muscle as well as strengthen its bones. Thus it will protect it from injury and increase the lifespan. The owners can also arrange play sessions between two dogs for half an hour that will eventually transform into a great workout. Recall games and sprinting are also great options.
Grooming
Unless their activities cause requires extra baths, monthly bathing is enough. Their thick coat requires thorough brushing on a regular basis to control shedding throughout the entire year. It is important to ensure that the ears are cleaned and dried regularly to prevent infection, particularly if the dog has a hanging type ear. It is a seasonal shedder with some amount of shedding on a regular basis.
Health Problems
The Lab-Chow is a healthy breed with no life-threatening diseases. But the owners should keep an eye for general dog diseases, and those which are genetic or affect its parents in particular. This breed has minor concerns such as Cataracts, Diabetes, Wobbler’s disease, Corneal dystrophy. Occasional hip, knee, and spine tests need to be done.
Training
Training is a must for this breed, as a Lab-Chow has an unusual parentage, and hence can have a versatile personality. Once the dog steps into adulthood, it becomes tough to train them. Given this breed’s genetic issue, training must be taken seriously. These obedient and eager to please dogs does not take too long to practice and profess all that owner teaches them. Potty training is not hard, but the owner needs to teach more than to ask himself out. The owner can also get the help of a professional trainer.
Obedience training is highly recommended for this breed to become a good pet, and more importantly to become an obedient dog. Early and extensive socialization with other animals and people is very important to avoid any personality issues.
Feeding
The owner should give the dog a diet meant for normal to large dogs such as its parents. The owner should not compromise on the quality of the dog food.
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