If you think about how many dog breeds exist, it’s impossible for even the biggest dog-lover to know about all of them. Even with all the new mixed combos, like the Pitsky or Chiweenie, very rarely does a pup come along that’s like nothing we’ve seen before.
Enter the Chinese Chongqing Dog. These gorgeous canines are among the rarest in the world, and thanks to their adorable stuffed bear looks and pouty, mesmerizing eyes, I’ll take four.
If you’re on the hunt for a rare pup, you’re in luck. The adorable doggy in this photo, shared by @chongqingdog_majestictemple, is looking for his forever home.
As the “son of the world’s most decorated Chongqing Majestic Temple, Lian Hu,” he’s not only rare, but has stardom in his DNA.
If the pup looks familiar, it’s likely due to his French Bulldog-like features. Adorable? Check.
These loyal, protective, and oftentimes dominant guardian dogs, also referred to as “Bamboo Ratters” due to their thin, long tail that resembles a bamboo stick, are a hunter’s best companion and that’s what they were originally bred for.
Though I’ve never heard of Chongqing dogs before, I’m obsessed now. Their distinctive features really do mirror some kind of cute Frenchie teddy bear.
But even with everything they’ve got going for them, it’s the eyes that got me; sad, mournful, waning eyes that seem to have lived a thousand lifetimes.
Related: Rare Cat Species Has Less Than 100 Left in the World & It’s Considered Good Luck to Spot One
According to Spot Insurance, only 2,000 of Chongqing cuties are left in the world, making them “as uncommon as the giant Chinese Panda.”
They nearly became extinct in the 1900s when the Chinese Communist Party put a ban on pet dogs, followed by a heartbreaking virus outbreak.
Those who survived all of that are all that were left of these amazing dogs.
Thanks to conservationist and breeders, the Chongqing is still around and cuter than ever. Sure, they need a moderate amount of training, but look at them!
And now that I know more about these babes, I’ve changed my mind. I’ll have six, thanks.
🐶SIGN UP to get “pawsitivity” delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾
