12 Chinese Dog Breeds With Remarkable Histories

China has 12 breeds of Chinese dogs, each interesting and rich in history that connects them with Chinese kings, traditional hunting legends on the land, and religious practices. All these breeds are now known not only for their unique personalities but also for their significant role in Chinese culture and society.

1. Pekingese

One of the most recognizable Chinese dog breeds, bred originally as royal companions for Chinese royalty, the Pekingese features a distinctive lion-like mane and carries itself with its proud posture, symbolizing nobility-something they were often carried inside the sleeves of Chinese emperors. Independent, but fiercely loyal, this breed’s temperament reflects their royal heritage.

Small dog, but very strong. The Pekingese has long and glossy coat, which means they need to have them regularly groomed. They are also brachycephalic, so the face is flat, and their compact build bodes well for breathing issues.

2. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is yet another royal breed. Its ancestors date back to the Tang Dynasty, bred for resemblance with the mythical “Lion Dogs” in China. These dogs are very cute and very friendly. Since they are very friendly dogs, empresses in the Chinese court loved them dearly for their amiable disposition and endearing appearance.

Shih Tzus are very friendly and love to live in people company. They are the best lap dogs. Long, flowing coats require frequent grooming for them to look elegant. They also possess an extraordinary long lifespan of up to 18 years, and their beauty is complimented with loyalty, which makes them both favorite and long-term companions.

3. Chow Chow

The Chow Chow is a robust, old breed; they possess the marked characteristic of an indigo-colored tongue and a thick double coat. Dating back from more than 2,000 years from the Han Dynasty, this breed was bred for hunting, herding, as well as guard work. They are more aloof than the other Chinese dog breeds due to its strong-willed and independent nature.

Chow Chows are dignified in nature but require socializing quite early because they are not outgoing. They require constant attention to their fur, especially during shedding seasons. Health issues include hip dysplasia and joint issues due to a more heavy build.

4. Shar-Pei

Shar-Pei is the breed easily to recognize for its wrinkled skin. The very origin of this breed dates to ancient times, bred in the Guangdong province for hunting and guarding purposes. This breed came close to extinction during the 20th century, but some zealot breeders rescued it and took the Shar-Pei to international recognition.

Shar-Peis are calm, protective dogs with a laid-back character. Their wrinkles should be scrupulously cleaned to prevent infection of the skin. These dogs also suffer from such health issues as hip dysplasia and entropion (an eye condition).

5. Pug

The Pug has the most ancient roots from China, where it was bred for the most elite in the form of a companion as far back as the Song Dynasty. Pugs were best rated with small size, attractive wrinkles, and full devotion-just perfect friends with the members of the upper class. The breed spread to Europe later and became one of the favorite aristocratic companions.

Pugs are attached and love being in family environments although they do have a tendency to be obese and can be susceptible to respiratory conditions due to having a brachycephalic head structure. Their grooming requirements are moderate, although they do need regular cleaning of the facial folds to avoid infection.

6. Chinese Crested

Although this breed is known as the Chinese Crested, it probably originated in Africa and was bred in China because this breed was used as a vermin-hunting dog on the ships. There are two varieties within this breed: Hairless and Powderpuff. There is a unique appearance for the hairless variety because it possesses tufts of fur on its head, feet, and tail.

Chinese Cresteds are playful, affectionate companions, who love playing and have sensitive skin, so they need special care, such as sun protection in sunny weather. Their bizarre appearance made them very popular in dog exhibitions and among pet owners, those who are seeking an unusual breed.

7. Lhasa Apso

Originally bred in the monasteries of Tibet, it was a sacred dog used as a watchdog to alert monks if any intruders entered the monasteries. Although originating from Tibet, Lhasa Apsos are intricately part of Chinese history due to historical ties between Tibet and China.

Known for their independent yet loyal nature, they take great care of themselves and are wary of strangers, thus they will make for good watchdogs. They have long coats that one needs to regularly groom them and may suffer from dental problems due to their small size.

8. Tibetan Mastiff

This is a giant, impressive breed; it had been protecting livestock in the Himalayas for millennia. For centuries, it guarded sheep from wolves and leopards. It is a brilliant guard dog as well because it has a strong sense of loyalty and a desire to protect.

These dogs are independent; however, they can be really trying for new dog owners. Their thick coat needs grooming, and they shed a lot. Tibetan Mastiffs may look big but are said to be calm and quiet dogs.

9. Tibetan Spaniel

The Tibetan Spaniel is a companion and watchdog bred within the walls of Tibetan monasteries: often, it sits watching on the monastery walls as interlopers approach. Such a small dog, the breed doesn’t suffer from shyness; it’s brave and bold.

Tibetan Spaniels have friendly, playful personalities and absolutely thrive on people interaction. Double coats need regular brushing, and flat faces predispose them to respiratory problems, aside from that they are considered a pretty healthy breed.

10. Tibetan Terrier

True to its name though not a real terrier, the Tibetan Terrier was bred in the Tibetan monasteries as a herder and a companion. Being highly long, flowing in coat and robustly built, this breed suited very well the rugged Himalayan terrain.

Tibetan Terriers are intelligent and affectionate. Their coats require frequent grooming, and they are subject to genetic issues such as hip dysplasia. Tibetan Terriers are loyal family dogs but can be aloof with strangers.

11. Xiasi Quan

Xiasi Quan is a rare breed owned by a region, the Guizhou province, where they were bred traditionally to be used for hunting purposes. Local villagers believe owning one brings them good luck and riches as they very well know how exceptional these dogs would be in their hunting skills-the agility and smart behavior included.

Although they are not common, Xiasi Quans are highly appreciated as loyal and industrious companions. They need to be exercised regularly to keep themselves in fit shape and are also pretty low-key in regard to coat, compared with other Chinese breeds of dogs.

12. Japanese Chin

Although it is known as the Japanese Chin, the origin of this breed could very well be China, which the country donated to Japan in a gesture of good will between the two countries, and it was warmly welcomed by Japanese nobles as house pets and is close cousins to all the other Chinese lapdogs.

Japanese Chins are loving, charming dogs with an intense affection for people. They can easily have breathing problems because they have flat faces, and their coat needs regular grooming to look like this long one.
These 12 Chinese dog breeds carry distinctive legacies: they have served in the royal courts, acting as guardians and even hunters. Their varied history shows how vast and deep China’s cultural heritage is and how, for centuries, a very important part of that heritage has been played by dogs.