Chinese garden dog

Chinese Garden Dog (Chinese Rural Dog): A Gentle and Loyal Canine Companion

The Chinese Garden Dog, also known as the Chinese Rural Dog, is a canid species with a gentle temperament, unlikely to show aggression towards humans. They thrive in communal settings with a strong sense of territory. As adults, they reach a shoulder height of 25-55 centimeters and weigh between 10-30 kilograms.

Physical Characteristics:

Chinese Rural Dogs vary in size and shape across different regions but share common features. Some regional differences are significant due to unstable hereditary traits from free breeding, leading to distinctive local variations.

Head:

The head resembles that of their wolf ancestors with a pointed muzzle, short mouth, and a flat forehead.

Ears:

Set high on the head, the ears are small and either erect or semi-erect, with semi-erect ears folding forward.

Tail:

 The tail curls upwards, particularly noticeable when the dog is walking, with "coin" and "sickle" shapes being prevalent.

Hind Legs:

When standing still, the hind legs are straight and vertical to the ground, with less obvious ankle bending compared to many Western breeds.

Coat:

Predominantly brown, the coat is coarse and easy to keep clean, with variations including yellow, white, black, and mixed colors.

Body:

The body is symmetrical and compact; medium-sized, with a body length to shoulder height ratio of about 1:1. Straight hind legs add to the square appearance of the body.
Resembling the Shiba Inu, these medium-sized dogs with yellow coats, white faces, and erect ears are suited for purebred breeding.

Behavioral Traits:

These dogs are known for their docile nature, high loyalty, and low susceptibility to skin diseases. They’re commonly used in rural areas for guarding and hunting.

Dietary Habits:

As carnivores, Chinese Rural Dogs require a diet rich in animal protein supplemented with plant-based components to ensure healthy development. They occasionally eat grass to aid digestion due to their unique gastrointestinal structure.

Social Behavior:

A hierarchical system exists within their groups, maintaining stability and reducing conflicts over resources. Other behaviors include circling before lying down to rest, displaying affection, and showing submission by exposing their belly.