Dogs From The East Can Outshine Expectations In Every Way
Not all dogs fetch sticks; some have spent centuries guarding emperors and shaping history. These legends hail from Eastern lands where dogs weren’t just pets; they played multiple roles. Excited to meet those unique breeds? Expect muscle and a few million-dollar surprises along the way.
Tibetan Mastiff
Talking about a heavy-duty dog, this mountainous brute originally protected livestock on icy Himalayan slopes with a bark loud enough to rattle mountain goats. In 2014, a red Tibetan Mastiff fetched $1.5 million in China. That’s right, a seven-figure furball.
Chow Chow
The Chow Chow isn’t just a dog; it’s a dignified, lion-like fluffball with the attitude of a seasoned emperor. With a blue-black tongue and an intense stare, this ancient breed was once a palace guardian. Loyal, independent, and aloof, they demand respect, not belly rubs.
Shar Pei
The Shar-Pei looks like it’s wearing a suit two sizes too big, but that’s no fashion statement; it’s built-in armor. Try to grab one, and they’ll slip right out like a four-legged escape artist. Once nearly wiped out during Mao’s regime, this wrinkly wonder made a surprise comeback in 1973, all thanks to a U.S. magazine ad.
Pekingese
Bred to mimic mythical lion statues, these tiny dynamos weren’t just imperial lapdogs, they were living status symbols, style icons wrapped in fur. Fiercely guarded and revered, they held so much clout that even emperors refused to stroll the palace without their pint-sized good luck charm trotting close behind.
Kunming Dog
In the 1950s, breeders blended local wolf dogs with imported Shepherds to create a service-grade, high-drive working animal, the Kunming Wolfdog. Still deployed in law enforcement today, it’s razor-smart and tough as bricks. Consider it Beijing’s four-legged tactical unit.
Shih Tzu
It’s said that offering a Shih Tzu to the emperor was considered a symbol of loyalty. These lap-lions of the Ming and Qing courts were crafted for grandeur, not grunt work. “Shih Tzu” translates to “Lion Dog.” With flowing coats and regal attitudes, they ruled palaces from the comfort of silk cushions.
Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is the supermodel of the dog world—sleek and always turning heads. With its wild tuft of hair and nearly bare body, it’s like a living fashion statement. This quirky pup is affectionate and playful. It proves that good looks and personality can coexist.
Chongqing Dog
Good luck tracking one down! The Chongqing pup nearly disappeared during the Cultural Revolution. Due to its glossy red coat and naturally stiff tail, it resembles a boxer crossed with a bulldozer. Loyal, territorial, and no-nonsense, this isn’t a pet; it’s a co-captain with an attitude.
Xigou
With a body built like a whip and peak speeds nearing 40 mph, the Xigou, aka the Chinese sighthound, was the pride of Tang-era hunting parties. Nobles paraded them for sport and status. Swift and dead silent, they hunted hares like ghosts. Your treadmill? Insufficient in front of this breed.
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso may look like a tiny, floor-sweeping mop, but don’t let the luxurious locks fool you because this pup was bred to guard Tibetan monasteries. Fiercely loyal and packed with personality, they’re watchdogs in designer coats, ready to protect and judge you simultaneously.
