Dogs From China, Meet Some Breeds

Everything that comes from Asia attracts our attention, it is something exotic and different from what we are used to, and with the dogs of China it would be no different. So, in this article, we are going to talk about some dog breeds from China.  Even though it seems strange to you, they are now over a dozen, and many of them are the oldest in the world.

Some races have already crossed borders and others are still restricted to their country of origin.

Main Dog Breeds in China

Believe it or not, many of the “in” dog breeds come from this country. Some have very peculiar characteristics, such as wrinkles or a tongue of another color, but the truth is that they are all beautiful. See below some of the dogs from China:

1. Shar Pei

Not a “new” pet, there are indications that it was common among humans since 206 BC. Symbol of the Han dynasty, Shar Pei means “sand skin” in Chinese.  This is due to the color of their coat. Throughout history, it has been used to perform different tasks and is currently regarded as a pet.

It almost disappeared in the 1960s, as this wrinkled skin was considered a symbol of the bourgeoisie and a waste of food. It is a serene, independent and single-owned animal. It is very important that you keep the folds of your body clean to avoid fungus or moisture. You have very delicate skin and it is common for you to develop dermatitis.

1. Shih Tzu

This breed originates from the region of Tibet,  is a dog appreciated by Chinese culture, due to its ability to protect itself.

It is related to the Buddhist religion and is believed to have originated after the crossing of a Pekinese and a  Lhasa Apso  (two other races from the same country). It can live to live 19 years. The name Shih Tzu means “Lion Dog” as it has a mane-like coat.

Small in size, short snout, large eyes and covered with a soft double layer of hair that reaches the ground, this breed is loyal, sociable, affectionate and prefers to be around its owners at all times.

1. Pekingese

It is one of the oldest dog breeds in China and originated, as its name implies, in the country’s capital. It is derived from the Woolly of Tibet and the first specimens appeared in  the Tang Dynasty  (4000 years ago). Such was the appreciation of the monarchs in relation to this breed of dogs that it was necessary to comply with a certain protocol in their presence.

He’s an excellent guardian, doesn’t bark excessively, loves the comforts of home, and doesn’t need much exercise. The Pekingese are quite brave, will resist if someone tries to invade their territory, and can face an animal bigger than themselves. Its  head is large in comparison to its body, its eyes are wide  apart and its nose is flat  (it may suffer from brachycephalic syndrome).

1. Pug or Carlino

Although it is a Chinese breed, it gained popularity with its arrival in the UK. It is the molosso type and is among the most beloved dog breeds in the world. Its name derives from the English “pugg”, which is used to refer to a playful little friend.

The Carlino has a solid and compact body, muscular, with a square and flat muzzle,  large dark eyes,  curly tail and smooth fur in a leotard or apricot color, with a black mask on the face. It is known for its great alertness and alarm capacity, very vivacious and for preferring human company over that of another dog.

1. Chow chow

This breed comes from northern China and is  believed to have been used to  protect Buddhist temples and palaces.  The name would come from the Mandarin spelling used for “diverse merchandise”, which was in the boxes that brought the first copies to England. Another theory indicates that it is actually a derivation of “Dog Lion”, as it features a mane, like the feline.

The Chow Chow’s body is robust, has small, triangular, rounded and pointed ears,  small eyes and a bluish tongue. He is excellent company, somewhat shy, but loyal to his family, they are not that active (they can live in an apartment without any problems).

In addition to these, other dog breeds in China are: Lhasa Apso, Chinese Crested, Tibetan Dogo, Chongqing, Tibetan Spaniel and  Tibetan Terrier.