Nickname        : Mascot of the Tongs

Breed Origins : China ( Dates back to Antiquity )

Breed usage     : Guarding and Hunting Dog

Dog Weight      : 50 - 110 Pounds

Dog Height       : 24 to 29 inches to the shoulder

History
Chinese Foo originates from China and was bred originally for guarding Buddhist temples. It’s origins can be dated back to Antiquity. It now has three sizes, however this page deals only with the large Chinese Foo Dog. The naming of this dog is highly significant to the Buddhist religion. The Chinese Foo resembles the looks of the lion which is a sacred animal to Buddhists. The Chinese word for Buddha is Fo, which led to the original name - the Dog of Fo. Dog Name Facts and Dog Names:The Chinese Foo is also known by the other names of the Sacred Dog of Sinkiang, the Chinese Choo Hunting Dog, the Chinese Temple Forest Dog, the Chinese T’ien Kou (Chinese Celestial Dog) and the Chinese Lung- Kou (Chinese Dragon Dog). This dog is classified as one of the Working Dog Group. The Chinese Foo is not currently Registered by the AKC (American Kennel Club) and is therefore in the category of dogs we have termed termed Unrecognised & Rare Breeds.

All Information and Tips About This Dog :

• Character and Temperament
  Dogs in the Working group, which include the Chinese Foo, were developed to perform a wide variety of tasks, such as pulling, hauling, herding, hunting, rescuing and guarding. The very nature of many of these tasks require a big, strong dog. These dogs have a long and close association with man and have provided invaluable help to their owners. The working dogs are generally large, intelligent, and protective of their masters. Working dogs have always been viewed as real assets to their owners and have worked with man replacing larger animals such as horses when none such animals were available. Advanced technology and machinery have negated some of the working requirements of these dogs but strength, courage and a fast reactions ensure that this partnership will continue long into the future. Working dogs, like the Chinese Foo, are medium to giant size and are strong, often independent, domineering and difficult to manage. This, together with the immense sizes of many of the breeds, make many of the working dogs unsuitable as a normal family pet or first time dog owners. These dogs require firm control and must be properly trained. Formal obedience training should include a proper socialising program. Training need not be difficult as Working dog breeds are generally quick to learn and intelligent.

• Coat and Colours information
  The Chinese Foo’s coat is normally any shade of black, black and tan, blue, brown and blue, cream and sable, fawn, orange, red , sable and grey with some white markings. The outer coat is coarse, straight-haired with a soft, dense, woolly undercoat.

• Health information - potential health problems
  Resolving dog health problems, including those of the Chinese Foo, can prove to be costly and it would be wise to consider the benefits of obtaining dog health insurance. Common health problems and questions occur in relation to the Bones, Joints, Muscles, Nerves, Ears, Eyes, Teeth and the Mouth. Other, more serious, issues can relate to the Digestive System, Heart & Respiratory Systems, Immune & Blood Systems, Reproduction and Urinary Systems. There are no apparent common health problems with the Chinese Foo Dog. The life expectancy for this particular breed is 10 – 12 years.

• Grooming and Care
  Chinese Foo requires weekly care and grooming. Grooming consists of not only brushing out the coat and bathing but also giving attention to the eyes, teeth, ears, feet and nails. A regular routine also ensures that any potential health problems are identified as quickly as possible.