The Chinese Chongqing dog is a breed of dog originally from southwestern China’s Sichuan and Chongqing. It is also known as Bamboo ratter and East Sichuan city dog. It was successful hunter, and also guarded livestock and acted as watchdogs on rural farms.
The Chinese Chongqing dog may be protective of it’s family and owners, but if a stranger to the dog is kind and the owner is present, the dog will grow to respect it. They are generally a good family companion.
However, these dogs are said to be wary of unknown strangers, and if it senses fear, it will prepare for action and attack if any false moves or suspicious actions are made.
The Chinese Chongqing dog is thought to be a very ancient breed, but there are limited records to prove this. Known to have originated in South Western China in the regions of Chongqing and Sichuan, it has likely co-existed with humans for at least two thousand years, as guard dog and a hunter.
Indeed, Chinese art work from the time of the Han dynasty depicts dogs that bear close physical resemblance to the modern Chinese Chongqing dog.
The breed was traditionally used to hunt, either alone or in a pack. The Chinese farmers relied heavily on the Chongqing dog to hunt a variety of species, including rabbits, wild boar, deer and birds. It is actually a multi-purpose dog, and it also protected the farmer’s livestock and homes, and served as a source of food.
Currently, the Chinese Chongqing dogs are considered extremely rare, and there are thought to be less than 2,000 dogs in the world. Despite this, their popularity is increasing, along with an increased national interest in native breeds within China.[1]
Chinese Chongqing Dog Characteristics
The Chinese Chongqing dog is a beautiful breed with a distinctive appearance. They have short and sparse coat, meaning their black skin is often visible underneath.
Their body is well-muscled and in proportion, except for their muzzle, which is noticeably short. Their ears and tail are particularly unusual, they both taper to a point and are often completely hairless.
The Chinese Chongqing dogs are perfectly triangular, relatively small when compared to the overall size of their large head, and always stand very erect. Their coat color may be a reddish brown or a dark brown color.
The Chinese Chongqing is a medium sized breed. Their average body height is between 15.5 and 20 inches at the withers for males, and between 13.5 and 15.5 inches for the females. Average live body weight of the mature dogs is between 20 and 25 kg for the males, and between 15 and 20 kg for the females.
Temperament
Depending on the use and lineage of the Chinese Chongqing dogs, they will display varying traits. The dogs kept for working are generally more aloof with humans, and more driven and active.
And those kept as companion animals will tend to form strong bonds with their family members and will be loyal and fiercely protective towards them and their property.
Due to their long history as a guard dog, the Chinese Chongqing dog breed will be suspicious of new people. And it has a tendency to show aggression. Very early socialization is critical to enable this dog to interact safely with children and other animals.
Due to the breed’s physical power and dominant personality, mixing them with young children is not recommended.
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the Chinese Chongqing dog breed is between 12 and 15 years.
Feeding
How much a mature dog eats depends on it’s size, age, build, metabolism and activity level. Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don’t all need the same amount of food.
The Chinese Chongqing dogs are medium in size and they are moderately active. So, their diet should be formulated for a medium sized breed with moderate exercise needs. You can consult with a vet in your area for better feeding recommendations.
Caring
Taking good care of the animals is very important for raising Chinese Chongqing dogs. You should always keep up with your dog’s regular veterinary checkups to detect any health concerns early.
The Chinese Chongqing dogs have moderate exercise requirements and would benefit from a vigorous, 30 minute walk each. They will typically crave more exercise than this. They will happily tag along with you on hikes and long mountain walks.
Due to the physical strength of this breed, it’s territorial nature and potential for aggression, this is not a dog recommended for a first-time owner. However, an intelligent Chinese Chongqing can be well-trained.
Due to the very short nature of their coat, this is a low maintenance breed that requires little intervention. They should be brushed weekly to help spread their natural oils over their coat and remove any dead fur. Over-bathing is not advised, as this may dry out the skin, and washing is only required if the dog gets particularly dirty or muddy.
Health
The Chinese Chongqing dogs are generally healthy. But like all other dog breeds, they are also prone to certain health conditions.
Their common health problems include heat and cold intolerance, hip and elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation and skin infections. Always try to keep good contact with a vet in your area.
| Breed Name | Chinese Chongqing |
| Other Names | Also known as Bamboo ratter and East Sichuan city dog |
| Breed Size | Medium |
| Height | Between 15.5 and 20 inches at the withers for males, and between 13.5 and 15.5 inches for the females |
| Weight | Between 20 and 25 kg for the males, and between 15 and 20 kg for the females |
| Good as Pets | Yes |
| Climate Tolerance | All climates |
| Color | May be a reddish brown or a dark brown color |
| Lifespan | Between 12 and 15 years |
| Good for Children | Yes |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country/Place of Origin | China |
