The Chinese Chongqing dog is a rare breed, even in their homeland of China. Dating back to the Han Dynasty, they are a medium sized dog with a thin coat of deep brown, almost mahogany color. This dog is muscular and solid, although the females are more streamlined and slender. The Chinese Chongqing is a noble and dignified dog, proven to be good with children, although the children must be taught to respect the dog and give them space when needed. Rough play will not be tolerated, so teach young ones to be kind in their play. This dog can be aloof with other dogs and non-canine pets, but with careful socializing when young, this tendency can be overcome. Fearless and powerful, they make ideal guard dogs who will let you know when strangers are entering your property. Strangers will easily be aware of their presence; only the unwise will test this dog's determination to protect. The Chinese Chongqing loves a nice grassy yard and tends to enjoy quieter moments with their family rather than boisterous games, although they will enjoy some fetching and tug of war fun. Their distinctive solid face often has skin folds around the muzzle and across the forehead, and they have a very engaging smile.
The Chinese Chongqing originated in South Western China, in the regions of Chongqing and Sichuan. Chinese art work from the time of the Han Dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD) depicts a dog that bears a likeness to the Chinese Chongqing. Chinese farmers relied on this dog to hunt rabbits, wild boar, deer and birds. These tough dogs also protect the farmer's livestock and homes. The Chinese Chongqing suffered when the Chinese Communist party placed a ban on pet dogs, banning them as pets and mass slaughtering many. Luckily the Chinese Chongqing was saved from extinction because of their isolated location in remote mountains and because it was proven to be a working dog who was deemed exempt. Once the ban was lifted 30 years later, the popularity of the Chinese Chongqing began to recover and spread. Then came another blow for the dog population. In 2003, China suffered from a viral respiratory disease (SARS) outbreak. The dogs were killed in large numbers, and their numbers sank. Today the Chinese Chongqing is extremely rare and it is estimated that there are less than 2,000 remaining in the world. National interest in native dog breeds within China have increased, so the Chinese Chongqing has seen an increase in numbers. For a dog who has a lineage that has survived for so long, it seems only fitting that fate deals it a kind hand for a change. This impressive dog is a long lived breed, often reaching the age of sixteen to eighteen years. Reserved, dignified and solid as a rock, this dog is unique and valuable.
The Chinese Chongqing has a powerful body and a very short, almost sparse coat where you can see glimpses of their black skin visible underneath. The face has modest wrinkles, giving the dog a quizzical yet dignified appearance. Their ears are quite distinctive, they are triangular and very erect, and almost seem too small for their solid head. The tail on the Chinese Chongqing is hairless, straight as a rod and very pointed. Even parts of their body can be quite hairless, exposing the black leathery skin. One notable feature is the blue - black discoloration of their tongue, similar to their Chinese relatives the Chow Chow and the Shar-Pei. Strong straight legs, a deep chest and thick neck support that impressive regal face with its baleful watchful eyes and droopy folds around the muzzle. The female Chinese Chongqing are slightly different in build, being more feminine and slender in build. These devoted companions form strong bonds with their family members and are fiercely protective towards them and their property; one can see a courageous stance that shows this trait of braveness.
The Chinese Chongqing can display a variety of different traits, depending on their use. A working dog will act reserved with people, being more focused and driven to perform. If your Chongqing is a companion, they will be fiercely loyal and protective towards their family and their property. They do form strong, affectionate bonds with their family members, but most will remain suspicious of strangers. Because of their high instinct to hunt, they are not well suited to living alongside other small animals. Even if trained and raised with them, their instinct to hunt can be triggered with disastrous results. This breed of dog is also aggressive towards other dogs of the same sex. The Chinese Chongqing has a strong territorial nature, and it does retain the potential for aggression. Therefore, this is a dog that needs an experienced owner, someone who understands this canine's character and can control the animal through training, patience, and dedication.
The Chinese Chongqing has moderate activity levels, although it benefits from a vigorous 30 to 60 minute walk each day. They are certainly capable of enduring more activity, and if you are an avid hiker or enjoy exploring the great outdoors, you will have a keen buddy who will want to tag along with you. Keeping this solid active dog busy will work towards keeping a happy and outgoing dog. When they are busy, they are less likely to develop undesirable behavior. A large yard in which to explore is needed for your Chinese Chongqing, but the area must be secure as they have such a high prey drive and they don't welcome strangers readily. This dog is not a people pleaser, meaning that they can be very stubborn and want to do things their way. The ideal owner for this dog is an experienced dog handler who will be able to gain the respect of this confident and proud dog and become the leader of the pack.