Okay, so I’ve got a Chow Chow, and let me tell you, finding the right food for these fluffy lions has been a JOURNEY. I wanted to share my experience, hopefully, it helps some of you out there.
The Picky Eater Problem
First off, my Chow, Mochi, is the PICKIEST eater. Seriously. I tried so many different kibbles in the beginning. I started with what the breeder recommended, some generic brand, and Mochi just turned his nose up at it. He’d eat a little, then just walk away. Not good.
The Research Rabbit Hole
So, I went down the research rabbit hole. I read everything I could find about Chow Chows and their dietary needs. Apparently, they can be prone to allergies and skin issues, so that was something I needed to watch out for.
- I learned they need a good amount of protein, but not too much.
- I found out that some Chows have sensitivities to grains, like corn and wheat.
- I discovered that good quality fats are important for their glorious coats.
The Trial and Error Phase
Armed with this new knowledge, I started experimenting. I tried a grain-free kibble – Mochi seemed to like it a bit more, but his poops were… well, let’s just say they weren’t ideal. Too soft.
Then I tried a limited-ingredient diet. This one had salmon as the main protein source. His poops improved, but he still wasn’t super enthusiastic about mealtime. He’d eat it, but it wasn’t like he was excited about it.
Then, I switched him to a chicken and rice formula.
Bingo! His poops are perfect, nice and firm. And his skin looks way less red and irritated. It’s great!
The Winner (For Now!)
After much trial and error, I finally found the right food. I opted for a brand that focuses on high-quality ingredients, and I choose one with chicken. It’s got a good balance of protein, fat, and fiber, and it doesn’t have any of those nasty fillers. And, most importantly, Mochi actually loves it. He cleans his bowl every time!
So, that’s my story. It took some work, but it was worth it to see my fluffy guy happy and healthy. Remember, every Chow is different, so what works for Mochi might not work for your pup. The key is to be patient, do your research, and don’t be afraid to experiment (with your vet’s guidance, of course!). Good luck!
