Over 400 officially recognized dog breeds exist in the globe, and they come in different forms and sizes.
For the average person, China is best known for its pandas, dragons, and silkworms. Have you heard of some of the most attractive dog breeds originating in China? There’s a dog breed in China that will meet your expectations.
Based on historical data, it has been claimed that the domestication of dogs initially occurred in the Middle Kingdom. While it may be traced back to the years 15,000 years ago, it has been demonstrated that there is a maximum amount of genetic diversity.
During ancient China, some breeds were popular among the wealthy and powerful. For the first time, China’s citizens have come to adore dogs. With these rules in place, dog ownership is becoming increasingly prevalent among Chinese households, even though they are strictly prohibited.
There are little dog breeds like the Mexican Chihuahua, which is regarded the world’s smallest dog breed, and huge dog varieties like the English Mastiff, which may weigh over 300 lbs in severe situations. It’s difficult to believe that all breeds are related, yet all dogs have a common ancestor: the old wolf. Dogs evolved differently in different regions of the world and were utilized for a variety of purposes. Some dogs were hunters, some were protectors, and yet others were just responsible for keeping us company.
China is home to some of the most intriguing breeds.
Chinese dogs have been evolving for thousands of years, and their history is filled with twists and turns. Dog breeds that originated in China are varied and have performed several roles throughout Chinese history. Some of these species were brave defenders of old monasteries, while others amused and occupied Chinese royals. Are you looking for Chinese dog breeds? We’ve compiled a list of our favorite Chinese dog breeds so you can choose a future companion with roots in an old Chinese culture. Now with that said, the take a look at 11 of Chinas most intriguing dog breeds.
1. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are becoming one of the most popular Chinese dog breeds.
These tiny Chinese dogs get along with almost everyone and are extremely sociable and obedient. This is another of the royal Chinese dog breeds that the Chinese monarchy highly prized and adored. The name “Shih Tzu” is derived from the Chinese word for lion.
The fact that these little Chinese dogs are an incredibly old breed and that they are very closely linked to the wolf – closer than other dog breeds – are two of the most intriguing aspects of them (even though they look very different from the large wolf).
2. Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin, contrary to popular perception and its name, is a dog breed that originated in China. The “Chin,” as it is often known, is a breed that originated in ancient China about 1.500 years ago. Some of these dogs were sent to Japanese monarchs as gifts and as trophies of battle with the Chinese around the beginning of the 11th century.
The Japanese Chin grew popular among the nobles, and when the British arrived, these dogs were frequently sold to sailors and British visitors.
2. Pekingese
The Pekingese is a Chinese dog breed that was designed to be the finest companion imaginable. The Chinese royal family maintained these canines, and Pekingese ownership was strictly regulated. Commoners could not possess these Chinese canines, and they could only be given as a gift. These dogs are commonly referred to as “lion dogs” because, according to a Chinese mythology, they were formed when Buddha granted a request to a lion and shrank him to the size of a dog. The lion just requested that Buddha give him his courage, which is why the Pekingese are so bold and fearless today.
4. Chinese Crested Dog
We may never know for certain how these Chinese dogs were created, although it is commonly assumed that early hairless dogs were transported to China and mated with tiny Chinese breeds. Although DNA analysis revealed that these Chinese canines have ancient roots, we are unable to identify them in a certain historical period.
What we do know about Chinese Crested dogs is that they are a lot of fun to be around.
Onboard, Chinese sailors employed these dogs to manage and hunt mice and rats. These Chinese canines are available in both hairless and coated variants. Powderpuff is the name given to the coated Chinese Crested.
5. Pug Dog
The Pug is a popular dog in the United States, yet it is an original Chinese dog breed.
It is a Chinese breed that dates back almost 2.500 years, making it one of the oldest existing dog breeds. These Chinese canines are incredibly sociable and have a peaceful demeanor. The Pugs were regarded royalty throughout the Han period, and they even had their own guards. The Pug was also a favourite companion for Buddhist monks in both China and Tibet.
All of these animals have one thing in common: they all like lying in a comfortable bed.
They are, fortunately, rather little, so purchasing them a small-sized bed would be a smart option. The Puppy Bed for Small Pups will do an excellent job of assisting your dogs in relaxing and getting a good night’s sleep.
7. Chow Chow
Another Chinese dog breed that has captured the hearts of owners all over the world is the famed “teddy bear dog” – the Chow Chow.
Some suggest that the Chinese dog’s popularity stems from their striking similarity to the popular plush toy, while others believe it stems from their fluffy coat.
Another Chinese breed preserved by royal families, one Chinese emperor reputedly had around 500 different-colored Chow Chows at his royal domain.
These dogs are still popular today, but always get a dog from a reputable breeder.
6. Shar Pei
The Shar-Pei is a distinctive Chinese dog breed renowned for its perked ears, blue-black tongue, and cute, wrinkled face. It is an ancient breed, dating back over 2,000 years.
It was originally developed for hunting and guarding, and it is said that the original Shar-Peis were larger and stronger than modern-day dogs. When the Chinese communists prohibited pet ownership in the 1900s, this beautiful Chinese dog breed almost went extinct. It wasn’t until the 1970s, when American breeders stepped in, that the breed was preserved and its numbers increased once more.
8. Chongqing Dog
There is no American Kennel Club or international kennel club recognition for the Chongqing, a Chinese dog breed unique to China. Despite this, the dogs are highly popular in China. This type of Chinese dog was given its name because they were formerly utilized as hunters and bodyguards in Chongqing, a Chinese metropolis.
However, nowadays, even in China, these dogs are far from the most common thing you may come into.
Because these medium-sized dogs are all passionate chewers, provide them with a sturdy chewing toy to keep their belongings from being damaged.
9. Kunming
Another native Chinese canine breed that has a remarkable similarity to the German Shepherd is the Kunming, or Kunming Wolfdog.
The Chinese K-9 unit heavily utilizes this dog breed for law enforcement purposes, as they were heavily utilized by the Chinese law enforcement at the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou, China. While many believe these dogs are descended from the ancient German Shepherds, as well as the Chinese Kunming, some claim that the other dogs from the same litter in the second picture are part of the dingo family.
10. Xiasi Quan
A Chinese hunting dog breed called the Xiasi Quan has a distinctive coat and color.
Despite being unfamiliar with the world’s cynology organizations, these canines are quite popular in China.It is said that these Chinese hunting dogs are excellent for good luck.
Because of the belief in these dogs in China, it is said that they bring good fortune and prosperity to the homes of their owners.
Unlike any other Chinese dog breeds, the Xiasi is a unique breed of dog.
11. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a sociable and family-oriented dog. You should get to know them because they are a lot of fun, and they may be naughty from time to time. They aren’t among the most trainable dogs, though.
Dogs who are well-known are amiable and approachable. The Lhasa Apso is somewhat standoffish with new people. The fact is, they were bred to perform this job, after all. On the other hand, do not be disheartened — this is why they are such wonderful watchdogs!
Despite its small size, the Lhasa Apso is confident and sometimes brave. They may not even be aware of how insignificant they appear to others. As most excellent watchdogs will do, they will guard the family as much as possible.