Chinese Dog BreedsAncient breeds from China and Tibet

Palace companions

Several of the world's best-known toy breeds were refined as companions in China's imperial courts:

• Pekingese: the lion dog of the imperial palace, dignified, independent and loyal to its family.
• Shih Tzu: developed in China, likely from Tibetan dogs, as a cheerful palace pet with a long flowing coat.
• Pug: an ancient Chinese breed that later became a favorite in the Netherlands and across Europe.

These breeds were made for indoor life and close human company, which is why they still make devoted, adaptable companions.

Guardians and working dogs

China and its neighbors also produced powerful, independent working breeds. The Chow Chow is one of the oldest known breed types, used historically for guarding, hauling and hunting. It is famous for its lion-like ruff and blue-black tongue, a trait it shares with the Shar-Pei. The Shar-Pei, known for its loose wrinkled skin, was a farm and guard dog in southern China and was brought back from near extinction in the late twentieth century by dedicated breeders.

Both breeds tend to be reserved with strangers and strong-willed, so early socialization and calm, consistent training are essential.

The Tibetan breeds

Tibet's mountain monasteries and villages produced their own distinct breeds, which are often grouped with Chinese breeds:

• Tibetan Mastiff: a massive, independent guardian of flocks and homesteads.
• Lhasa Apso: a small indoor sentinel that alerted monks to visitors.
• Tibetan Terrier: not a true terrier but a shaggy, agile all-purpose companion.
• Tibetan Spaniel: a small, alert dog that liked to watch from monastery walls.
• Kyi Apso: a rare, bearded Tibetan guardian and herding dog.

A note on the Chinese Crested

Despite its name, the Chinese Crested's exact origins are uncertain. Hairless dogs existed in several parts of the world, and the breed as we know it today was largely developed in Europe and North America. It is a gentle, affectionate toy breed that comes in a hairless and a coated Powderpuff variety.

If you are choosing among these breeds, think about size and temperament first. Apartment dwellers often do well with the Shih Tzu, Pug, Pekingese or Tibetan Spaniel. Families wanting a sturdier medium dog might consider the Tibetan Terrier. The Chow Chow, Shar-Pei and Tibetan Mastiff are loyal but aloof, and they reward owners who respect their independence and invest in early socialization.

Health and care notes

The Pekingese, Pug and Shih Tzu are brachycephalic breeds with short muzzles, which can lead to breathing difficulties and heat sensitivity. Keep them cool, avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather and look for breeders who prioritize open airways. The Shar-Pei and Chow Chow are prone to entropion, where the eyelids roll inward, and the Shar-Pei can develop a recurring inflammatory condition known as Shar-Pei fever. Long-coated breeds such as the Lhasa Apso and Tibetan Terrier need regular brushing to prevent mats.