9 Popular Chinese Dog Breeds

When it comes to dog breeds that originated in China, the first name that comes to mind is Shih Tzu. There is so much about these babies.

When it comes to being a lap dog and a companion dog, they have been a popular choice, and that too for decades! Much of this is because of how playful and loveable they are as individuals.

Most people who wish to become pet parents choose them because of how quickly they can learn and adapt to their environments.

As long as they have toys and laps to play with, they are happy – the size of the home does not matter to them.

Dog Breeds From China

#1 Tibetan terrier

Tibetan terrier dogs are supposed to be intelligent, sensitive, and loyal. It is a dog breed that likes to be with people. They are also happy to live in most homes. It does not matter how big or small it is or if it is situated in a rural or urban area.

They have the perfect balance of being energetic and docile. They are just as happy snuggling with you on the sofa as jogging around the block.

#2 Pekingese

The Pekingese dogs are much-loved around the world. They are among those ancient dog breeds that originated in China. Much like the Shih Tzu, they are a toy-sized breed.

They were originally bred by Chinese royalty. During the Opium Wars of the 19th century, this breed came to the UK (United Kingdom).

They were introduced in the USA (United Kingdom) during the late 1800s to early 1900s. These dogs are popular and regarded in high esteem all over the world.

They are affectionate and loyal, to boot. Usually, they like people. But they can be suspicious as well.

#3 Chinese Crested dog

As opposed to other dog breeds in China, you have two varieties within this particular variety – Chinese Crested dogs.

You can get them in the same litter as well. One of the two varieties is the hypoallergenic hairless variety has only hair tufts on its head, ankles, and tails.

The other one is the Powderpuff variety which is well known for its silky and ultra-soft coat. These babies are the ideal representation of the saying that great things come in small packages. Both these types possess the same temperament.

#4 Formosan Mountain dogs

The Formosan Mountain dogs are known as Taiwan dogs. It is one of the most primitive and oldest dog breeds. It dates back to anywhere between 10,000 and 20,000 years.

They also do not have any association with the royalty. On the contrary, they primarily roamed in the wild before these dogs were domesticated.

After this, they were used as search and rescue and hunting dogs. They were also used as guard dogs as long as they existed. The Chinese people have bred them to become loyal and versatile family dogs.

#5 Chongqing dogs

The Chongqing dogs are an interesting breed. As companions, they are fiercely protective and loyal. Therefore, you must have them in your home.

It also helps that they are such softies for children. However, since they primarily are guard dogs, they would not initially welcome any stranger.

It is also another dog that owes its origin to the Han dynasty of ancient China. As per records, these dogs have been there for a couple of millennia.

They were used primarily for hunting and guarding. Their appearance is unique, with short coats, rigid tails that look like bamboo sticks, and a muscular build.

#6 Chow Chow

The Chow Chow dogs are well known for their immensely fluffy coats. They originated in 206 BC (Before Christ) in China. Their coats make them look like bears, and their features are rather serious.

They are also protective individuals. Together all these factors make them exceptional choices as guard dogs.

Most of the dogs we have listed are great for playing with and cuddling. However, the Chow Chow dogs are aristocratic and independent individuals.

#7 Shar-Pei

The Shar-Pei dogs originated during the Han dynasty. It means this breed originated around 2000 years ago. However, after the Republic of China was established in 1949, they were slaughtered horrifically.

As a result, their numbers dwindled. The same happened to the other dog breeds in China at that time.

Thankfully, during the 1970s, they were saved following an appeal to the USA (United States of America). Dog lovers from the country rescued these babies, which is why we still have such loveable, intelligent, and protective companion dogs.

#8 Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiffs are a rather popular breed of dog. They have deep chests and thick double coats completed by a powerful, robust, and muscular build.

Therefore, people looking to intrude on your home would think twice when they see these dogs. These dogs are bred and born to be guard dogs.

It is said these dogs have the soul of a monk living in the – one who has not been reincarnated. They are loyal and watchful. However, they are not as affectionate as the other dog breeds mentioned earlier.

#9 Kunming Wolf Dogs

The Kunming Wolf Dogs are often called the German Shepherds of China. Because of how uncannily similar both these breeds are. The breeding process started during the 1950s, and they are pretty athletic. Initially, they were supposed to fight, search, and rescue.

Thanks to their prowess and nature, they are highly suited to working in the military and the police. These dogs have plenty of energy and stamina, so they may not be the ideal family pet option. However, some homes still have them as pets.