Animals have been man’s companions for thousands of years. Instead, they give their owners friendship, affection, and sometimes security. Nowadays, pet industry developing in the rapid speed in China, and various kinds of pets also have different popularity degree.
China can safely be said to be a country with a diverse and vibrant pets’ market with numerous trendy pets. From dogs to fish, birds to turtles, hamsters and other exotic pets, Chinese citizens have an opportunity to choose virtually any pet they want. In this article, we uncover most popular pets in China and then offer analysis and insight into the culture behind each.
What are the Popular Pets in China?
Let’s explore the most popular pets in China and why the people of China are inclined to pet these animals.
1. Dogs: The Most Loyal Companions
Dogs are probably the most favored domestic animals in the region of China. Also referred to as man’s best friend, canine have been tamed animals for thousands of years; they have been used by man for almost every purpose ranging from hunting partners to security dogs. In today’s China, especially for the people, dogs are faithful, loved pets. Some people argue that they are associated with good luck and fortune and therefore many Chinese families have this type of doors.
Popular dog breeds in China include:
- Small Breeds: Small dogs like Shih Tzu and Pomeranians are ideal with the Chinese tend to live in small houses in cities. These dogs also bring warmth and companionship within a small figure thus can be termed appropriate for urban life.
- Large Breeds: Despite this, Chinese families who have more home space to house the dog choose dogs like German Shepherds or Golden Retrievers. Large breeds are preferred for their high level of intelligence, obedience and guard instincts.
Also Read – 6 Essential Items for First-Time Dog Owner
2. Cats: The Independent Yet Affectionate Friends
Cats have been domesticated in China for generations and the trend is still on to this date. The personality of the cats is quite independent and they get very friendly with the owners, or better with either, if they like. Let me explain few common characteristics of this country, in Chinese culture cats are a symbols of luck.
The most popular breeds of cats in China include:
- British Shorthair: Simultaneously, due to their round faces, thick coat, mild character, British Shorthair cat is in great demand among individuals in China.
- Persian Cats: Persian cats are well loved due to their elegance and a flat face, as well as friendly temperament and luxurious fur.
- Munchkins: Often reproduced due to what may seem like the failed evolution of these animals, these cats with short legs are starting to become popular in China as they will give a different look while playing and being friendly.
3. Fish: A Symbol of Prosperity
Aquatic animals or fishes have been cherished and cultured pets for Chinese citizens as far as history can tell. The Chinese civilization has ascribed various qualities to fishes and one of them that they represent prosperity and good luck. This has made them remain popular pets to most people up to date. In Chinese culture fish are a symbol of wealth, fish are popular with Chinese people as pets.
Popular aquarium choices in China include:
- Goldfish: Goldfish as being bright in color and flexible are among the most common fish to farm in Chinese aquariums. They also are considered as the bringers of luck and are commonly found at gardens and home Improvement stores.
- Koi Fish: These beautiful fish are a real enchilada in China, thanks to their bright color and the ability to freely populate interior and outdoor pools. This is also why koi fish are also a symbol of fortune; they are often even given as gifts with the intention of bringing good luck.
- Betta Fish: As famously known to be colorful and aggressive, betta fish are popular in Chinese homes and aquariums. Their fur and kind of behavior where they defend their own territory makes them a novelty and fun to be with.
4. Birds: The Songful Companions
Birds have been the common pets in China for a long time even though the large birds where not common the small birds like parakeets, canaries among others were admired. They are some of the most melodious birds around and very friendly, which makes them have signatures with those owners with whom they bond. They are very charming, good singers and they are lively.
Popular bird species in China include:
- Canaries and Finches: These small and brilliant birds of various colors are quite preferred by Chinese citizens as pets. Beautiful melody and very active so it is interesting to get them as friends.
- Parakeets and Budgies: These birds are also referred to as ‘Love Birds’ of Australia where these parakeets and budgies are also famous for mimicking human beings.
- Lovebirds: Lovebirds are found in Africa and the Chinese people prefer it for their small size and loyalty to their masters. These are excellent pets to have around because they are affectionate birds with nice feathers and great personal traits.
5. Turtles: The Comforting Slow and Steady of Longevity
It is very important that turtles are among the oldest pets in China, with red-eared sliders and pond sliders as the most famous. The Chinese regard the turtle as an auspicious symbol for a long life and therefore they are common in many homes. Turtles are domesticated animals frequently purchased in China because such animals are associated with long life, prosperity and orderly society.
Common turtle species found in China include:
- Red-Eared Sliders: These turtles are almost always found as pets in China because of their conviviality and attractive shell color but are happiest living in water.
- Chinese Pond Turtles: Chinese pond turtles are well-known turtles originating from China. They are relatively passive and Member of Chelonia, this species of turtle has very attractive and different shades of shells.
6. Hamsters: The Tiny Furry Balls of Joy
Hamsters have lately gained popularity as pets in China. They are small and fluffy animals with bright personalities, which is the main advantage, they can be the main source of laughs for their owners. Unlike other kinds of animals, hamsters only need food, a clean cage, daily experience, and fresh water. They are very cheap and therefore suitable for lots of people.
Common hamster breeds in China include:
- Syrian Hamsters: Comparing to other breeds, Syrian hamsters are bigger and their natural color attacking is golden fur, which makes these cute animals popular among Chinese people. Such qualities as a sweet temper and playful disposition make them perfect pets.
- Dwarf Hamsters: They are smaller in size than those of Syrian and are also gradually gaining popularity in China. Hearing no has never been an option thanks to these little creatures which are sociable and full of energy.
7. Rabbits: Gentle and Playful Companions
Rabbits have become popular as pets in China. These soft and friendly pets are friendly and loyal and are also famous for their tendency to become loyal to their master. These small sized compact appearing breeds are particularly chosen due to their cute looks and affectionate nature. Rabbits are gaining popularity as house pets, because of their friendly disposition and cute looks.
Popular rabbit breeds in China include:
- Netherland Dwarf: These lovely, small rabbits are preferred by Chinese pet lovers because of their friendly disposition and tendencies to be loved.
- Lop-Eared Rabbits: Of all the breeds of rabbits, the lop-eared rabbits which have loose ears are most preferred in China. There is also the great friendly attitude in these dogs, and thus they are perfect family dogs.
8. Exotic Pets: A Growing Trend
According to the economy and increasing urbanization and development in China, more and more exotic pets are available and owners are adopting them. They are amusement and novelty that does not easily come by anywhere else. Exotic animals may sometimes be very difficult to take care of due to their preferred natural environments or their preferred type of diet.
Examples of exotic pets in China include:
- Geckos and Iguanas: Growing up in the tropical climate of China, animals such as the gecko or iguana are kept due to the climate being hot.
- Sugar Gliders: These are small and nocturnal marsupials that have recently become popular in China because of how cute they look, and how much ‘attention they can pay to their masters.’
- Hedgehogs: Originally from some part of Asia, hedgehogs have become popular in China because of their quirky looks and behavior.
Also Read – 5 Things to Think About Before Adopting a Pet
Conclusion
Pet markets are so dynamic in China with so many pet species dominating markets to suit the different needs of people who need pets. Chinese consumers have a choice of almost all types of warm-blooded animals, be it dogs, cats, exotic animals such as sugar gliders and hedgehogs. With development of the Chinese economy and enhancing welfare of the population as the trend for pet-keeping develops, it is possible to expect that even more exotic and differentiated types of animals will become popular.
