China’s history with dogs stretches back thousands of years. Some are small and regal, while others are big and imposing.
One thing is for sure: these dogs reflect the diversity of China’s landscapes and cultures.
I have put together a list of 12 Chinese dog breeds that carry a story as rich as the heritage they represent.
#1 Pekingese
The Pekingese is a breed of toy dog developed in ancient China.
At some point, only the Imperial family was permitted to own them. This compact, stocky dog is renowned for their “lion’s mane” of long hair.
#2 Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu was developed from the Pekingese and the Lhasa Apso.
It originated in China with an ancestry in Tibet.
Their name means “lion” or “little lion,” and they were often presented as tributes to the Emperor of China.
#3 Shar-Pei
The Shar Pei is native to all southern Chinese provinces. Originally used for hunting and guarding, it is thought to be descended from the Han Dog, an ancient guarding breed.
The breed resembles many dog breeds from the mastiff family. These dogs are suspicious of strangers and other dogs.
#4 Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is an all-purpose dog of ancient China. Chow Chows tend to be aloof with strangers and can be aggressive with other dogs.
They are one of the only breeds to have a blue-black tongue instead of pink.
They are extremely loyal, very independent, and highly intelligent dogs. They thrive in calm homes with experienced, confident pet parents.
#5 Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is the oldest and most ferocious dog in the world.
The Tibetan Mastiff is from the Tibetan Plateau, and its origins are from the grey wolf. Breeders would say the dogs had “lion’s blood” in their lineage.
Recently, Tibetan Mastiffs have become popular among China’s elite.
In 2010, a Chinese business tycoon paid $1.5 million for a purebred Red Tibetan Mastiff named Big Splash.
In 2014, another Chinese businessman bought a Tibetan mastiff for $1.9 million.
#6 Chinese Kunming Dog
The Kunming is a type of shepherd dog and is similar in appearance to the German Shepherd Dog.
It has a yellow and black coat.
The breed was created in the early 1950s to meet the need for military dogs in Yunnan. However, they stand taller in the back and have a shorter coat. It was recognized as a breed in 2007.
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#7 Chongqing Dog
Chongqing Dogs are medium-sized with compact, muscular bodies. It is an ancient breed from the southwestern part of Sichuan. Originally developed as hunting dogs, they are loyal to their people.
They make dedicated workers and devoted pets. They tend to have a long lifespan of up to 15 years.
#8 Xiasi Quan
It is a Chinese dog breed and has its origins in the Guizhou province of China. In Guizhou, people believe that the dog brings wealth to the family.
The Xiasi dog is distinctive due to their lean, muscular body. They are expert hunting and tracking dogs.
#9 Laizhou Hong
The Laizhou Hong is a brave, intelligent dog from China’s Shandong province. The Chinese Red Dog is known for its great intelligence and trainability. They are also known for their calm and loyal personality.
#10 Chinese Crested Dog
The Chinese Crested Dog is a hairless breed of dog that has its origins in the African hairless dog breed. However, the breed was miniaturized in China through selective breeding.
#11 Xian Hound
The Xiasi Hound originated in southeast China.
It got its name “Xian Hound” after Zhang Xian, a legendary god in the form of a dog who creates eclipses. I like that these dogs are skilled hunters.
#12 Pug
Pugs were brought from China to Europe in the sixteenth century.
They were later imported to Europe by Dutch traders. Pugs are members of the toy group despite their solid appearance.
Pugs don’t need extensive exercise; this is good if you don’t have much time for long walks.