Chows arent stupid and yes they are hard to train but that is because they arent as quick to let you assume the alpha role. Neither are they "Mean". They are protective. Which once again comes down to choosing the correct breed for you. The problem with any breed really is the lack of responsible ownership. It amazes me that this statement gets said over and over and over again but yet everyone seems to nod there head and move onto the next dog or breed to chastize. I love all dogs but yet there are breeds that I wouldnt own because they are not right for me. We just need to get people educated but the general public like to believe "If it was on TV it has to be true." But anyway good luck with Chewy!!