As guard dogs, Chow Chows are known to be alert and watchful. They are usually calm and reserved around strangers, but suspicious if they feel their family or home is threatened. When strangers approach their territory, Chow Chows may bark, growl, or even charge towards the intruder. This makes them effective deterrents for potential intruders.
Additionally, Chow Chows have a thick, dense coat that can sometimes cause people to feel intimidated. Their imposing size and fierce appearance, with the deep-set eyes and blue-black tongue, contribute to their ability to look like formidable guard dogs.
However, it's important to note that Chow Chows are not a typically aggressive breed. They may initially be wary of strangers, but with proper socialization and training, they can learn to be friendly and accepting towards new people. Therefore, while they can make effective guard dogs, it is important to prioritize ethical training methods that emphasize positive reinforcement and socialization to ensure their protective instincts are channeled appropriately.