Xiasi Hound
The Xiasi Hound is a loyal, adaptable breed that makes a versatile hunting companion and affectionate pet. These pups are eager to please their people and love tagging along on family outings.
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Xiasi Hound Traits
General Appearance
The Xiasi Hound is a medium-sized dog with a large head, muscular body, and long legs.
Coat and Coloring
A wiry coat is one of the Xiasi's most recognizable features. It comes in three lengths (short, medium, and long) and is either white or cream-colored.
Distinctive Physical Traits
Xiasi have a broad, short muzzle, small, triangular, erect ears, and a pale pink nose. Their eyes are small and dark brown, and they can have black spots on their tongue. They also have a short neck, deep chest, and rope-like tail that they hold high when alert.
Xiasi Hound Temperament
Xiasi Hounds are loyal, affectionate dogs. They bond closely with their people and become attuned to their needs. When working, they're versatile hunters and fierce protectors. But they make gentle, patient family dogs at home.
The Xiasi typically gets along well with other dogs and kids. But because of their strong hunting instincts, they may view cats or other small pets as prey.
Xiasi Hound History
An ancient breed, the Xiasi Hound originated in southeast China. The Hmong raised these dogs for centuries to hunt and guard property in the mountainous Guizhou province. People believed the Xiasi Hound was also a sign of good luck, bringing prosperity to their owners.
Today, the breed is extremely rare—fewer than 300 Xiasi Hounds exist.
Xiasi Hound Care
Nutrition
Xiasi thrive on a high-quality diet formulated for their life stage (e.g., puppy, adult, senior). To keep your pup at a healthy weight, measure their portions to avoid overfeeding and keep an eye on how many treats you're giving them. As a guideline, treats should make up no more than 10% of a dog's daily calories.
Grooming
The Xiasi's coat is relatively low-maintenance. Weekly brushing to remove loose fur and prevent matting will keep them looking their best.
To reduce your dog's chance of ear infections, check their ears regularly and clean them as needed to remove wax build-up and debris. Nail trims should also be part of every dog's grooming routine. If nails grow too long, they can cause pain and potentially lead to problems running or walking.
Lastly, good dental hygiene is important for your dog's overall health. Dental disease is one of the most common health conditions in adult dogs. Left untreated, it can contribute to other serious issues. In addition to professional cleanings, establish an at-home dental care program that includes regular teeth brushing and veterinarian-recommended dental chews.
Exercise
This active hunting breed needs daily exercise to stay physically fit and mentally stimulated. Backyard play sessions, jogs, and long walks with plenty of opportunities for sniffing are great ways to keep Xiasi happy and healthy.
Training
Intelligent, eager-to-please pups, Xiasi are typically easy to train using positive reinforcement techniques. Treats, favorite toys, and praise are all great rewards during training sessions.
Additionally, all dogs benefit from early socialization. Introducing your pup to different people and environments when they're young will help them develop into a confident, well-mannered adult dog.
Breed Group
Asian and Oceanian
The Asian and Oceanian group is comprised of breeds whose origins lie in Asia, which have spread as far as Australia, the islands of the Pacific, and the Arctic. This group is possibly the most ancient of all breed groups and were bred for a variety of purposes, including guarding, hunting, and as draft dogs.
Resources
https://www.weekinchina.com/2018/02/chinese-dogs-an-overview/
https://baike.baidu.com/item/下司犬/5423053
https://wagwalking.com/breed/xiasi
Reviewed June 16, 2021 by Annette Louviere, DVM
