Chinese Chongqing Dog Breed

Below are the details and specs for the Chinese Chongqing dog breed.

These are medium sized dogs with considerable differences between genders. Males reach 16-19.5 inches and weigh 44-54 pounds while females stand 14-16 inches and weigh in at 33-44 pounds.

Overall, the Chongqing makes an excellent household protector. Although trustworthy with kids, they don't do well in rambunctious families. Friendly strangers will see them as aloof while ill-wishers will find a fearless and territorial protector. Unless socialized at a young age, this breed may have hunting instincts towards small animals and be territorial towards other dogs.

Members of this breed are super low maintenance when it comes to grooming. They do require at least 30 minutes of intense outdoor exercise daily. Early training is necessary and will require a patient, calm and consistent owner that is prepared for the time and effort required.

Chongqings, or East Sichuan Hounds, are said to be at least as old as the Han Dynasty (1700 years) and maybe even 2000 years. The Chongqing area of China, from which this dog hails, is relatively undisturbed and this has allowed the breed to be shaped by nature and unique characteristics be preserved. They were used for scent hunting and protecting the home. It is notable that these dogs dwindled to a fraction of their original amount after the 1940's due to them only being allowed by certain owners and only for work purposes. During the 1980's, however, the breed began gained population again. They are still extremely rare and mostly found in the Chongqing region. Very few breeders outside of the region have permission to breed these dogs.

The Chongqing is a compact, medium-sized dog. They appear square shaped, overall, and are muscular and strong; they shouldn't look too big or streamlined, though. Females should be readily distinguishable from males, with more delicate feminine features. The coat of this breed is short, thin and harsh feeling. They have large heads with flat skulls and wrinkles between the eyes as well as a short, square muzzle. The ears are small and erect, the eyes dark brown and a black nose that tips slightly up. Notably, the tongue is patchy bluish-black. The legs are strong, straight and heavy-boned. This breed's tail is short, starting thick and tapering to a point; it is either held straight up like a "bamboo shoot" or at a 45 degree angle.

Calm, confident, dignified and cool, the Chongqing will fearlessly guard the home and family. Their alert and loyal watchfulness makes them excellent guard dogs. Members of this breed are independent and can be left alone for short periods of time and they will rarely bark; despite this independence they are very appreciative of your affection. They are active dogs and will need plenty of outdoor exercise daily.

They will take some time and patience to train and first time owners should make sure to establish themselves as the leader.; they respond best to someone who is calm and consistent. This breed will likely want to pull or lead you on the leash but do not let them.

It is said that this breed is not molded by man but by natural selection; therefore, they don't have notable health issues. With good fortune your Chongqing may even live up to 18-20 years!