DesertMoon Chow Chows | Jan Reed

Interview with Jan Reed, Breeder of DesertMoon Chow Chows

Where do I live? How many years in dogs? How many years as a breeder?

Jan Reed: I actually grew up in a no-dog household due to other’s allergies. We live just east of Oklahoma City and Tinker AFB. I have owned Chow Chows under the kennel name DesertMoon for 40 years. I am an AKC Breeder of Merit.

What is my kennel name? How many dogs do I currently keep?

Jan Reed: As I’ve aged, I try to keep four. The DesertMoon Chows call our house their home. Which have been my most influential sires and dams? I was fortunate, early on, with access to NORTHWIND, XISHAN, Cherie’s lines, which allowed me to couture my own line and stamp type.

Can I talk a bit about my facilities? Where are my puppies whelped? How are they raised?

Jan Reed: All dogs are raised in my home. We introduce them to Puppy Culture and seven surfaces in seven weeks.

What is my “process” for selecting show puppies? Performance puppies?

Jan Reed: Having raised several litters over 40 years, we look for confident puppies that represent the Breed Standard.

Does my breed require any special preparation for competing in Conformance?

Jan Reed: You have to learn to comb their double texture coats. The puppy’s billowy texture takes less time than a mature adult coat. Nails trimmed back and feet tidied up.

In my opinion, is my breed in good condition overall? Any trends that warrant concern?

Jan Reed: I see a lot of imports from Europe. There is so much variation in type, it’s hard to see which direction the breed is headed. A concerning trend is the color fads.

Is my breed well suited to be a family dog? Who are the best candidates to own my breed?

Jan Reed: Yes, Chows are well suited when introduced and raised correctly. My children and grandchildren love them. The best candidates are mature people who understand the exercise, grooming, and
nutritional needs.

What is the biggest misconception about my breed? What is my breed’s best-kept secret?

Jan Reed: They are not as vicious as they could be. Best-kept secret: best bed buddy!

As a Preservation Breeder, can I share my thoughts on the sport today? What do I think about the number of shows? How’s the judging these days?

Jan Reed: I’ve seen some nastiness. I can say that if you’re determined, you will be successful. Ninety percent of the judges I’ve shown to over the last few years I had never shown to before. There’s still a few DNS, as they play games. I choose 3-5 day shows, as it’s better odds.

In my opinion, is social media good for the sport? Is it harmful?

Jan Reed: The harm comes from immaturity and keyboard warriors.

What are the biggest challenges facing the dog show community as a whole today and how can these be addressed?

Jan Reed: Education. Teach people what it takes to make it happen!

What are some of the positive changes I’ve seen in my profession and in the dog show community over the past decade?

Jan Reed: I do feel comrades; however, it’s good to have friends in other breeds.

If I could share one suggestion with judges of my breed, what would I like to say to them about my breed?

Jan Reed: Please don’t put your face in theirs. Ask the exhibitors to open the dog’s mouth for the exam.

For a bit of fun, what’s the most amusing thing I’ve ever experienced with a Non-Sporting Dog?

Jan Reed: In 2022, in Orlando, my dog did his “fainting act.” Not once, not twice… he did this in the Group two times and at the Specialty under Dr. Keating.