The Chuandong Hound is a faithful, attentive and noble breed with a regal appearance. Stemming directly from the ancient Chinese Chongqing Dog, he is one result of the split of that breed into two separate breeds – this one being the “hunting type” from the mountainous regions, while the other (Chongqing Dog) is the “city type” which is more of a guarding molosser. While similar in appearance, the Chuandong has a longer muzzle and a different head shape altogether, and is leaner and a little bigger (although not too big, this is still a small to medium breed). The Chongqing has an underbite while the Chuandong has a scissor bite. The eyes are almond shaped rather than oval. The topline is level, unlike the Chongqing’s rise above the croup. Finally, unlike the Chongqing which is allowed to appear in either red or black, the Chuandong can only come in red. The breed is recognized by the China Kennel Union but is very rare.
While the Chuandong is considered a scenthound first and foremost, some have used him for the secondary purpose of guard work. With a brave demeanor and a gifted mind wrapped in a powerful body, he is capable of playing the role of guard dog without any additional training, although is a poor choice for bite work sports or police work. He will raise the alarm to strangers and people at the door, and may or may not choose to pursue further measures depending upon how likely he sees the person as a threat. He has a dominant nature and does require an owner who is knowledgeable and experienced. For those that can handle him, he is very intelligent and willing to learn obedience.
Chuandongs have been said to be cat-like in demeanor, which probably comes from their primitive heritage. They like to be clean and lick themselves like cats to keep themselves spotless. They move effortlessly through the house and aren’t prone to knocking things over or being boundlessly clumsy. They can move their ears independently to listen to sounds. They are also very quick to housebreak. That said, they do like to play and enjoy being around their owners just like other dogs. Although more work than a cat (particularly in the training department), this breed is fairly easy care overall. Chuandong Hounds barely shed at all as they have an ultra short, single coat. This means that for most people, they are hypoallergenic.
The Chuandong Hound isn’t terribly social around other dogs, especially those whom he’s never met before. He may be prone to fighting and should be given lots of early socialization if he is to live with other dogs. He loves children and is very good with them, although shouldn’t be teased. When it comes to human strangers, he is aloof and may be prone to barking. With his own family he is loyal and affectionate, and while he can be independent he does form deep attachments. An ideal household for this breed is one that is fairly calm and not prone to throwing huge parties or being otherwise chaotic.
Chuandongs are able to live in apartments as long as they are exercised regularly, although this isn’t ideal. They do best when in a home with a yard for them to stretch their legs, and when provided with this can manage just fine with a 30 minute walk, hike or jog each day. Make sure to keep this active hound on a leash when exercising as they are prone to running off in search of interesting smells!
Chuandong Hounds are known for their long lifespans when kept as companions – living to 18-20 is considered normal! Those who have been traditionally been used for hunting often have shorter lifespans as their tenacious natures and high prey drives have gotten them into trouble… they have no fear and have been known to fall off cliffs in pursuit of animals such as cows! Lethal hunting accidents were not uncommon, nor were casualties of dog fights. Two Chuandongs in a fight have been known to inflict serious injuries upon eachother, as their determined nature means that neither wants to let go or give up the fight. All of that said… provided that they are well-cared for and kept out of harm’s way, they are likely to live a long time and gift their owners with countless years of enjoyment.
Photo By Markus Monroe