When you think of Chinese dog breeds, you might have an image of a chow chow in mind.
But dog breeds from the Far East have a wide range to offer, both in terms of size and appearance.
For example, would you have guessed that number 7, one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, comes from China?
12 Chinese dog breeds at a glance
Dog breeds from China are among the oldest in the world.
In the past they were used to protect temples or for hunting. Dogs have now become popular status symbols in China.
1. Chinese Crested Dog
The Chinese Crested Dog is a small dog with a happy personality that goes by its charms striking appearance notices.
Apart from his long hair, he is largely hairless.
Unfamiliar with aggressive behavior, the crested dog makes a good companion who can adapt quickly.
Due to the lack of fur, its skin needs regular care and protection.
Danger
Unfortunately, many of these dog breeds, including the Chinese Crested Dog and the Pug, are often tortured. This is associated with a lot of suffering and pain for the animals. Before you decide on such a pet, you should inform yourself well!
2. Kunming wolfhound
Also known as the Chinese wolfhound, the Kunming is a medium-sized dog breed. It looks similar to the German Shepherd Dog.
His enthusiasm for work also stands up to comparison. Thus, the Kunming wolfhound was bred to assist the military and police.
He is a loyal companion who needs a lot of activity and workload.
3. Chongqing Dog
Alert, courageous and loyal are three qualities that describe the Chongqing Dog.
He is characterized by high intelligence and is very agile.
His body is muscular and square, the coat is short and dense.
Good to know
Even if its appearance is reminiscent of a so-called «fighting dog», it is not to be classified as such.
Due to his character traits, he is suitable both as a house and guard dog as well as a hunting dog.
4. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is one of the oldest dog breeds. Its thick fur is reminiscent of a bear, which also earned it the name «bear dog».
A distinctive feature of the Chow Chow is the blue tongue, which is part of the breed standard.
This breed is considered very headstrong and shows little subservience.
Therefore, these dogs usually have a pronounced territorial behavior and tend to be aggressive towards other dogs.
Would you like to learn more about headstrong dogs? Then take a look at the article 5 dog breeds that are particularly unpopular with dog trainers over!
5. Japanese Chin
Although its name suggests otherwise, the Japanese Chin is believed to have originated in China. However, it probably only became popular in Japan.
Well trained, the representatives of this small Chinese dog breed are social and very loyal companions.
Its fur is long and smooth. While it doesn’t require a lot of maintenance, it should still be brushed regularly.
The Japanese Chin has a tendency to be overweight. This should therefore always be kept in mind.
6.Lhasa Apso
This dog from Tibet comes along on short legs. The representatives of this small dog breed are considered to be very temperamental and are agile, playful companions.
Due to his friendly nature, he is also suitable as a family dog, but he prefers contact with adults.
The Lhasa Apso is characterized by a long, sleek coat that can reach to the ground. Regular grooming is necessary to prevent matting.
7. Pug
Although the pug is recognized as an English breed of dog, its origins lie in China.
The pug has developed into a popular dog breed due to its friendly and bright nature. Because it is just as suitable as a family dog as it is as a companion for single people or seniors.
Due to the shape of their head and body, the Pug often cannot be as active as they would like to be. However, this small breed is always enthusiastic about walks and games.
Since he tends to be overweight, food and exercise should always be balanced.
8. Pekingese
The Pekingese, or Pekingese, is an ancient breed of dog that originated in Imperial China. There he was kept as a palace dog.
The small dog breed is compactly built and has a long coat with a lion-like mane. This also earned her the nickname «Lion Dog».
His face is characterized by a flat nose. Therefore, he is not suitable for dog sports or excessive exercise.
In addition, according to new breeding standards, a nose that is too short and breathing difficulties are not acceptable.
9. Shar Pei
Also known as the wrinkled dog, the Shar Pei is a sensitive but also very strong-willed dog.
He is friendly and relaxed towards people, but with other conspecifics he shows a great deal of dominance.
Due to its strong protective instinct, this Chinese dog breed is suitable as a guard dog.
Good to know:
Even if there are typical characteristics for dog breeds, all four-legged friends have a very individual personality.
10. Shih Tzu
The small Shih Tzu is a popular companion and companion dog. He is characterized by a cheerful nature.
As a cheerful companion, the Shih Tzu likes to be the center of attention.
This dog breed originated in Tibet. There they were kept in the temples as guard dogs.
Its long, silky fur, which grows very dense on the head, earned it the nickname «Lion Dog».
11. Taiwan Dog
The Taiwan dog or Formosa dog is originally a hunting dog. Therefore, he is very active and has a strong hunting instinct.
The medium-sized dog has a pronounced musculature. His coat can be multicolored and brindle.
He is perceptive, loyal and fearless. He is also suitable as a family dog because he has a gentle, attentive nature.
For more great dog breeds with a T, check out our article: 17 Dog Breeds With a T
12. Tibetan Mastiff
An imposing appearance is the Tibetan Mastiff. It reaches a height of 66 cm. Given its size, it requires a lot of space.
This breed of dog is characterized by a good protective instinct and alertness. Solid basic obedience as well as early socialization are essential for living well with this breed.