Page:The power of the dog.djvu/111

 for the Chow's jaws are powerful, and his dense coat is almost as effectual a protection to his flesh as a suit of mail. It is not usual for him to come off second best, and his nature bids him renew the conflict whenever occasion serves.

In appearance the Chow is distinctly favoured, his short cobby body, straight forelegs, and powerful hindquarters making him look compact and strong. The small pointed ears, carried stiffly erect and forward over the eyes, are a fitting completion to the head, which needs to be broad and flat. The expression should be scowling rather than benevolent. Individual taste may have much play in the choice of colours, as we may choose from all black, red, yellow, blue or white. At present the red seems to be the most in demand, although efforts are being made to popularise the blue. This is a very beautiful colour when we get it in purity and brilliancy, but so many blues have a rusty tinge which is by no means agreeable. The blacks, too, sometimes suffer under the same disability. Owners of blues and creams complain that it is of little use exhibiting them, however typical they may be, owing to the judicial preference for the reds. Well, I may be wrong, but I should always be disposed to put shape and type before colour, presuming of course, that the latter came within the standard. The head is one of the most characteristic features of the Chow, the blunt, broad muzzle having nothing of the Pomeranian or foxy style about it.