Laizhou Hong

Also called Red dog of Laizhou, Chinese Red Dog, Zhuqiao Hong, Sulian Hong, Shandong Hong

A composed, devoted dog that settles into new surroundings with ease.

Size	Large
Weight	30 to 60 kg (66 to 132 lb)1
Height	64 to 80 cm (25 to 31 in)1
Coat	Short, smooth coat
Origin	China, from Zhuqiao Town in Laizhou City, Shandong Province, where it took shape in the 19th century.1

Rare breedShort profile

calm and steady

loyal to its family

adapts quickly to new places and situations

Personality what they are like

A composed, devoted dog that settles into new surroundings with ease. Its calm nature and watchfulness have made it valued both as a family companion and as a guardian.1

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, smooth coat

A big, athletic dog with a short, close-lying coat, usually in warm red tones that give the breed its name.1

Coloursredreddish brown with black saddleblackdark browndark brown with black saddle1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Laizhou Hong. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A large working and guarding breed that is used to having a job; it does best with regular daily activity and something to do.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The short coat needs only simple, occasional brushing.1

Company who they like around

Bonds closely with its owners and is kept as a companion as well as a working guard dog.1

The story where it all began

Local dog lovers in Zhuqiao, Shandong, created the breed by mixing native Chinese dogs such as the Xigou and Langqing Quan with imported breeds including the Great Dane, German Shepherd and Rottweiler. It is now spread throughout China but remains uncommon abroad.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Its name simply means 'Laizhou red', after its home city and its typical coat colour.1
2
The breed goes by many local names, including Zhuqiao Hong after its home town and Huxing Quan, the 'tiger-shaped dog'.1
3
Laizhou Hongs were shown at the 2019 World Dog Show in Shanghai.1
4
Some Laizhou Hongs carry a black saddle over a red or dark brown body.1

Name ideas for your new friend

HongZhuqiaoWeiShanLongBaoMingTianDaFuLeiXing

A day in the life told by a Laizhou Hong

This morning, I padded across the courtyard, my red coat glowing in the sun. My human laughed as I nudged the gate, ready for our patrol. We circled the yard, me checking every corner, tail high. After, I sat by the wall, watching the street with calm eyes. A squirrel chattered, but I stayed put, a true guardian. At dusk, my family gathered, and I leaned against their legs, content. I may not herd sheep, but I keep my people safe and happy, one quiet day at a time.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

China Kennel Union: Recognised by the China Kennel Union, which places it in the equivalent of FCI Group 2. Not recognised by the FCI itself.1

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Laizhou Hong, and at what times?

Feed your adult Laizhou Hong at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. A consistent morning and evening schedule works well. Follow the feeding guide on your dog food label and ask your vet for portion advice.2

What should a Laizhou Hong eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food suited to its size and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always check with your vet for the best diet plan.3

How often should I bathe a Laizhou Hong?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and at least once every three months is fine. You can bathe more often if your dog gets dirty or has skin issues. Use a gentle dog shampoo.4 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Laizhou Hong need brushing?

Brush your Laizhou Hong weekly to keep its short coat healthy and remove loose hair. Pet Wiki's starting plan recommends weekly brushing. It's a simple, quick routine for this breed.1 4 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Laizhou Hong's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid bleeding. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.4 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Laizhou Hong need?

This active working breed needs daily exercise like walks, play, and a job to do. Pet Wiki's starting plan includes daily walks and playtime. Keep it engaged to match its working heritage.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Laizhou Hong's teeth and ears?

Brush your dog's teeth daily if possible, or at least 2-3 times a week with dog toothpaste. Check ears weekly and keep them dry, especially since floppy ears trap moisture. Never push anything into the ear canal.4 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Laizhou Hong live?

Lifespan varies for this breed. Ask your vet or a good breeder for typical expectations. They can give you the best guidance based on health and lineage.

Is a Laizhou Hong good with children and other pets?

This calm and devoted breed is known as a family companion and guardian. Early socialization helps with children and other pets. For specific advice, consult a good breeder who knows the individual dog's temperament.1

Can a Laizhou Hong be left alone?

This breed bonds closely with its owners and may not enjoy long periods alone. Gradually accustom it to alone time from puppyhood. For specific guidance, ask a good breeder about your dog's needs.1

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.