Chow Chow temperament?

Hello, all! I'm keen on getting a Chow Chow puppy, however my family members are very wary of my doing so due to their reputation as being mean. I've read that they are protective and loyal to their pack, or family, and wary of strangers, but not mean if you socialize them at an early age. My questions, summed up, is basically what are your experiences with a Chow Chow, how did you train your Chow Chow (if you have/had one), and how would you recommend I socialize the puppy if I get one?