it seems that certain breeds are better at this than others - where do Chows fit ? thanks
2007-06-20 05:25:35 · 4 answers · asked by art_flood 4 in Pets ➔ Dogs
No, chows are not bred for search and rescue. They aren't very social dogs and they're smelling ability isn't as keen as ...say a blood hound or retriever. They were bred for guarding. They are extremely loyal however tend to exhibit timid and aggressive behaviors towards other people and animals.
2007-06-20 05:33:14 · answer #1 · answered by sillybuttmunky 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I volunteered in K-9 SAR for 2 1/2 years with my chow-golden retriever mix.
When it comes to selecting a dog for SAR work, the personality is more important than the breed. If you are choosing a dog specifically for SAR work, a Chow Chow probably would not be a good choice. However, if you are wanting to get into it with your current dog, if his temperament is right it could be a good idea, because everybody screws up their first dog anyway.
What you look for in a SAR dog is a working demeanor and an even, friendly temperament, the dog must enjoy meeting and playing with all types of people the instant they meet them. It wouldn't do to find a lost kid and the kid hugs the dog and the dog freaks and bites them. Even if you are training for human remains detection, your dog must be comfortable with strangers so as not to get distracted by all the police, etc.
Chows are known for being a little more aloof with strangers.
The dog must enjoy working for you and be willing to keep working under all conditions in all circumstances, for potentially long periods of time. For this reason, many hunting/herding/working breeds are used. The chow was not bred for long periods of work and may not be willing to do so. Their heavy coat would make it difficult for them to work in hot weather or in woodlands with thick undergrowth.
The dog must be willing and able to use its nose to find things. Chows have a shorter nose than most dogs, thus having fewer scent receptors. Doesn't mean they can't still smell way better than you and find people, but there are dogs much better suited to this task.
SAR work is a huge commitment to do it right. It is more like a second job than a hobby. It will cost you a lot of time and money. But the wonderful relationship you can have with a dog who is a working partner, and the knowledge that you are helping people who've experienced a tragedy can make it more than worth it. Like I said, if you are serious about it and you already have a chow, try joining a team and learning the basics on your chow, then when you know what you're doing, get a puppy.
Some of the best breeds for SAR, because they are likely to have the proper temperament, are German Shepherd Dogs, Labrador and Golden Retrievers, Newfoundlands, Rottweilers, Australian Shepherds, Collies, and Border Collies. Bloodhounds are excellent tracking dogs but they take a lot of effort to obedience train. I have also known successful SAR dogs that were mixed breeds, and one Vizsla.
2007-06-20 05:45:59 · answer #2 · answered by Firekeeper 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
They are very good at searching but due to their heavy coats, it's a very low chance of them surviving fire rescues with burning buildings.
2007-06-20 05:31:29 · answer #3 · answered by turtle 2 · 0⤊ 2⤋
yes, it's strong dog
2007-06-20 05:32:13 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋