My dog doesn't like me!

[lizbud]

How do you feel about this dog? Do you feel comfortable enough to
just try playing a game with the dog. I would suggest that you just give
yourself time. Maybe take the dog for training lessons. When you both are
focusing on learning a class lesson, instead of watching each other for
reactions.

[cyber-sibes]

Every dog is different. Just keep taking care of her and she will get it. then when you least expect it, she will want to be everywhere you are.

Here's what happened with my dogs (sorry it's so long)
We got Star as a small puppy, and she seemed so much more bonded to my son & my husband. For years I felt she treated me like "the maid". She saw me as the person who took care of feeding, poop scooping, and walks. She got "big affection" from everyone else. Then I got another puppy who adored me from day 1 - I loved that girl beyond belief! But she was hit by a car at only 3 yrs. After that, my older dog started to be my buddy. And while she may still show more tail wagging & gives kisses to anybody in the world but me, we are very bonded. I turn around and there she is. I walk out of the room and suddenly she's dropping a toy at my feet. She stands and stares at me alot. Apparently she telecommunicates, LOL! She's just a more aloof dog than my others have been, but I love her so & wouldn't trade her for the world.

So hang in there. Obedience classes would be a good activity for both of you. A pro can help you learn to communicate with each other better. And, it's fun! Give her a little time, love works wonders!

[shoneypaws]

Chow's are notorious for the lack of expression. It's what makes them good hunters and protectors.

Perhaps this poor guy was never given attention by his owner and the only attention he received was from visitors.

As everyone has said time will heal. Treats and hand feeding are usually the best way to bond. I know it's a big no-no but I have went as far to let a feral cat eat off my plate in order to form a bond.

[CathyBogart]

My boyfriend's family has a chow, Susie. Susie is not very expressive at all,like shoneypaws said. She will show pleasure at getting affection, but it took her a long time to warm up to certain members of the family. Hopefully your Sam is just taking time to warm up to you too.

[binka_nugget]

I'd give it some time. I'm sure she'll come around

We got Kaedyn a little over three years ago and honest to god, it wasn't until we were past our second year together that I started earning his respect. Now that we're into our third year, we're starting to bond and get past just mutual respect. I found that after I started taking the dogs to obedience classes, the doggy pool and agility classes.. Kaedyn and I started sharing a connection similar to the one Kai and I share.

[borzoimom]

My boyfriend's family has a chow, Susie. Susie is not very expressive at all,like shoneypaws said. She will show pleasure at getting affection, but it took her a long time to warm up to certain members of the family. Hopefully your Sam is just taking time to warm up to you too.

Good point.. I have trained a few chows, but never owned one.. hmmmm.. I still think there hasnt been enough time yet. ... hmmmmmm..

[mruffruff]

About 5 years ago I "fostered" a chow mix. She was found in the woods with her second set of pups and rescued. She was very fearful, but submissive. I thought this dog was never going to enjoy being with a family.

Well, she's still with me, no longer a foster and finally has come out of her shell. It took a nearly a year to get her to play with the other dogs and and the toys. She still doesn't seem to need a lot of human attention, but will come to me occasionally to be petted.

Hang in there; he'll come around.

[lovingpaws]

I know someone with a lab/chow mix. They have a great bond, and he's very responsive to her. He was a shelter dog and had been there over 3 months. Just give it some patience and love.It took her a few months as well.