I have 3 chi's. 2 of them really don't like to be cuddled, or picked up. One of the 2 will lie in my lap in my recliner. One is very unsure of herself, and does what the others do. The 3rd is a lover, and enjoys human company. But even she, will decide when she wants to cuddle! They all have their own ways.

I really like that Toby seems very "middle of the road". He loves getting affection and enjoys cuddling. He follows me all over the place. But when I'm busy he is perfectly content hanging out with his toys and relaxing on his own.

I'm a lucky chi mommy- I get the best of both worlds!


Sent from my iPhone using Petguide.com App

__________________

Breed does play some into the dog personality that you'll get, but not completely. Just like pit bulls can be affectionate and sweet, many times the dogs attitude will depend on how he/she was raised, but also on genes and the personality that he or she has.

My chi can be a bit standoffish as well, there are days when he's with me all day, and others where I barely see him. I figure he just needs some space on the days he spends away from me and that he needs attention when he comes back, it's no big deal.

As for the growling, he does that as well, I look at it as his warning or his way of letting me know he's not happy. It's his way of using his voice to communicate with me.

Dogs have their own personalities. Some require space, just like some people. I don't like people that aren't family or very close friends touching me. I don't like when people stand too close while talking, and if someone crowds my space I let them know. Dogs can't tell you to back off, so they use growling or biting. She doesn't enjoy long cuddle sessions, and she gets stressed with too much contact. If you want her to become more comfortable being close, you can use positive reinforcement techniques like hand feeding, and slow desensitization. She won't be a super cuddly dog, but I'm sure she enjoys your company the same.