Overview
The Chongqing dog comes from the mountainous region of southwest China, where it was kept as a guard, a hunter of small game and a general farm dog. It is a muscular, medium-sized dog with a short, sparse, rust-coloured coat, a wrinkled face and an upright tail that narrows to a point.
It is one of the rarest breeds in the world and almost unknown in the UK. The temperament described by those who keep them is protective, intelligent and loyal to its family, with suspicion of strangers and a tendency to take charge of other dogs. It is a dog for experienced hands rather than a group walk novice.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour a day in two walks is reasonable for an adult. They enjoy exploring and using their nose, and respond well to structured training built into the walk, but they are not high-mileage athletes.
Avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather. The muzzle is moderately short and the dog can overheat faster than a longer-nosed breed.
On the walk
- Guarding: The dog may react to approaching strangers by standing square and watching. Keep calm, keep moving and do not let people reach for it.
- Other dogs: Many are selective and some will not back down. Avoid head-on greetings and keep it out of mixed group walks until you know it well.
- Lead: Powerful for its size. A fixed lead and a sturdy harness, with the dog beside you rather than ahead, keeps the walk predictable.
- Skin: The sparse coat offers little protection. Check for scrapes, sunburn and irritation after walks.
Tips for professional walkers
- Meet the owner and dog together at least once before walking alone; this breed is slow to accept new people.
- Choose quiet routes and times until you know how the dog reacts to joggers, bikes and other dogs.
- Carry water and keep walks short on warm days; the facial structure holds heat.
- Keep handling minimal on early walks and let the dog decide when it wants contact.
What to ask the owner
- How does the dog respond to strangers approaching, and has it ever shown aggression to people or dogs?
- Is there a specific lead, harness or muzzle it is trained to wear outside?
- Are there any breathing or skin problems you should watch for on a walk?