Discover the Top Chinese Dog Breeds and Their Rich History

Chow Chow dog breed sitting tall with mouth open against a white background — Note: While the breeds in this collection tend to be Chinese dog breeds, individual pets will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet.

10 Dog Breeds

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Chow Chow

While bonded to their owner, the Chow Chow is generally reserved and independent. They are not especially playful or affectionate. The Chow Chow is good for owners who enjoy their independence and who don’t mind a dog giving their love from a distance. 

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Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetian Mastiffs have hard shells but are warm, calm, loyal, and affectionate with their owners. A guard dog through and through, the Tibetan Mastiff is wary of strangers and naturally protective of their family and property. They are often independent and strong-willed. Proper socialization is essential so that they can get along well with others. 

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Shih Tzu

Spunky, sweet, loyal, and vivacious, a Shih Tzu bonds closely with its owner. They are known for having a pep in their step and a personality that makes them seem like perpetual puppies. Affectionate, good with family life, and low on exercise needs, these little sweethearts make excellent companions. They can have a stubborn or tough streak. 

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Pekingese

While they are small pups, they are not timid lap dogs. Courageous and tenacious, these Chinese lion dogs can be outgoing and loving although not overly affectionate. Pekingese dogs are fiercely independent and have a stubborn streak, and some can be aloof. They can be playful around family members but might not be playful enough for children. They don’t like being roughly handled and can be injured easily by small children. 

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Pug dog breed sitting with tongue hanging out looking at the camera against a white background

Pug

Pugs offer a delightful mix of tranquility and mischief. They're the perfect cuddle buddy but also possess an entertaining silly streak. These devoted companions thrive on human interaction, so they are equally at home with family, strangers, and other pets, making them ideal for bustling households. They may experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods on end.

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Chinese Crested

A playful companion dog that’s as sensitive emotionally as it is physically, the Chinese Crested is a devoted dog. They are good with other dogs, people, pets, and most children, albeit younger and more unpredictable ones can be stressful to these delicate dogs.

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Lhasa Apso

While this lion dog might look like a happy-go-lucky lap pup, the Lhasa Apso is a tough, independent, and bold breed. They have been bred for thousands of years as companions to Tibetan monks and can adapt well to small spaces despite also loving romping around outside and mental games. They love nothing more than being close to their owners, and going on as many adventures as they’ll allow. They can be reserved with strangers but are overall highly adaptable. 

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Tibetan Spaniel

Bold and often stubborn, the Tibetan Spaniel dog is an independent thinker with a sensitive side. They are generally very happy and enjoy being with their families, whether on outings or just curled up on the couch. They get along well with other dogs but can be aloof with strangers.

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Tibetan Terrier

While called a terrier, the Tibetan Terrier is not a terrier and is only named as such based on their size. They don’t have any terrier qualities, but instead are charming and loyal companion dogs driven by owner interaction, not work. Eager to please yet sensitive, they are generally good-natured and affectionate. They make good family companions for families willing to take them on adventures. Owners might often find them on the back of a couch or on a counter.

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Chinese Shar-Pei

The Chinese Shar-Pei’s personality is a complex blend of loyalty and independence. Well-socialized pups are devoted to their families and playful at times but often possess an aloof demeanor. Their stubborn streak can emerge without proper training, manifesting as territorial behavior. Shar-Pei are naturally wary of strangers, requiring careful introductions. Other pets can be a coin toss; they may integrate well with cats raised alongside them, but other dogs might be met with suspicion or even aggression. 

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