Chinese Imperial Dog
Information About the Chinese Imperial Dog
The Chinese Imperial Dog is a breed that was commonly kept as a palace pet in China. This dog is the result of monks breeding different species until they came up with a miniature dog that resembled a lion. The Chinese believe that the lion represents Buddha, and it is for this reason that the Chinese Imperial Dog is considered sacred and one of the most sought after pets.
The monks bred these dogs to be small, if one was born too big or grew too large, they would be killed in order to keep the gene pool free of this perceived defect. Historically, this dog could not be kept anywhere but in the Imperial Palace, if someone were caught with a Chinese Imperial Dog they would be sentenced to death. In the late 1800s and early 1900s this breed of dog did exist outside of China due to the fact that European nobility had been given these dogs as pets and they continued to breed them.
Although the Chinese Imperial Dog is very much like a Shih Tzu, it is actually a different breed of dog, and today they are recognized as such. This breed will grow to a height of about 8-inches at the shoulders and can weigh up to 9 pounds, though it is better if the dog weighs less than 7 pounds. This type of dog is very small, but tends to have a lot of stout and muscle.
The Chinese Imperial Dog is definitely bred to be a family pet; in ancient times they were bred with the intention of being a companion so it is in their nature to take to people with no trouble, and to be easy going. These dogs are very playful and nice; they are also loyal, which is evident when you see one of these pets following their owner everywhere they go.
Although the Chinese Imperial Dog is very gentle with children, due to its small size, young children should always have adult supervision when they are playing with one of these dogs. This is mainly for the dog’s protection, so that the child does not accidentally injury it. This should be the practice with any type of miniature breed dog.
If you own a Chinese Imperial Dog you will have to pay careful attention to its care; these animals require a great deal of attentions. This breed of dog will need to be bathed and brushed at least every four to five weeks. In general, this dog is not prone to a great many health problems, with the exception of hypoglycemia, like most small breed dogs. With the proper care, the Chinese Imperial should live about 10 to 15 years.
Training this dog is relatively easy due to their high intelligence and the fact that it is part of their nature to want to please. You will be able to train your pet easily if you give them the attention and love they need.
The Chinese Imperial Dog is a breed that is easy to keep in the city because most of the exercise they need, they can get indoors, but this breed does love to walk outside too. Because of the fact that this dog has little control over regulating their body heat, they should not be left outside in extremely cold or hot temperatures. This type of dog will easily succumb to exposure and heat stroke.
If you are looking for a good dog to keep in your apartment as a pet, the Chinese Imperial Dog is a great choice.