Tag: Information


Nov
2022

11 Popular Dog breeds from Asia

categories: Culture
pretty dog

When you think of popular dog breeds, your mind might immediately jump to the usual suspects like Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds. But what about some of the lesser-known breeds that come from other parts of the world? In this blog post, we’ll be taking a look at 11 popular dog breeds that come from Asia.

1. Chow Chow 

Many popular dog breeds come from Asia, including the Chow Chow, the Shih Tzu, the Tibetan Mastiff, and the Akita Inu. 

Each dog breed is known for its distinctive appearance, high intelligence, and loyal and protective nature. Perhaps the best-known of these dog breeds is the Chow Chow, which originated in China and is one of only a few ancient dog breeds that can be found in modern times. 

With their bear-like appearance and thick fur coats, Chow Chows are powerful guard dogs that are also quite gentle around children. 

the dog is lying near the house

Whether they’re hunting dogs, lap dogs, or anything in between, Asian dog breeds make wonderful companion animals that bring their human families joyfully. So if you’re looking for a new four-legged friend to add some extra charm to your home and heart, consider adopting Asian dogs!

2. Shih Tzu 

The Shih Tzu is a popular dog breed from Asia. They are known for their long hair, which can be either straight or curly. Shih Tzus are also among the most popular breeds in the United States. In fact, they are the tenth most popular breed in the country, according to the American Kennel Club. 

The Shih Tzu is a small dog weighing between 9 and 16 pounds. They typically have a lifespan of 10 to 18 years. Shih Tzus are friendly and outgoing dogs that get along well with children and other pets. They do require some grooming due to their long hair, but they are relatively low-maintenance compared to other breeds. 

If you’re looking for a small dog with a big personality, then the Shih Tzu is the breed for you!

3. Akita Inu 

Akita Inu is a popular dog breed that is native to Asia. With its long, fluffy coat and large, expressive eyes, the Akita Inu combines beauty with agility and intelligence. Its independent spirit sets it apart from other dog breeds in Asia, making training this dog challenging. 

However, if an owner is prepared to meet this challenge head-on, they will be rewarded with a loyal and devoted companion who is eager to please. 

Akita Inu with blue eyes

Whether you are looking for an energetic dog that loves hiking or simply enjoys relaxing at home with your furry friend, the Akita Inu makes for an excellent choice of dog breeds from Asia. So why not take home one of these wonderful Asian dog breeds today? You won’t regret it!

4. Hokkaido Asian dog breed

Hokkaido is one of the most popular dog breeds from Asia. Originating in Japan, this dog breed is a striking mix of slender spitz-like features, with bold dark markings and luxurious white fur. 

Like other dog breeds from Asia, the Hokkaido dog is prized for its domestic qualities, being both intelligent and easy to care for. These dogs are also known for their friendly nature and playful temperament, making them fantastic family pets. 

Several different dog breeds from Asia are popular worldwide, including the South Korean Jindo dog, the Chinese Crested dog, and the Lhasa Apso. Whether for companionship or sled work, these dog breeds prove that Asian dogs make excellent pets!

5. Kai Ken 

Perhaps one of the most popular dog breeds to come from Asia is the Kai Ken. Originating in Japan, this diminutive dog features a long, muzzled face, fluffy fur, and alert, triangular ears. 

Similar in appearance to its close cousin, the Japanese Spitz, the Kai Ken is thought to have descended from the ancient dog breed Shikoku Inu. 

Renowned for its resourcefulness and hunting prowess, this dog breed is especially popular with dog owners from parts of Asia and beyond. Its small size, athleticism, and gentle temperament make it a favorite among dog lovers everywhere. 

Whether you are looking for a new companion or an active pet for your family, there is no doubt that the Kai Ken is a true Asian treasure!

6. Kishu Ken Asian dog breeds

The Kishu Ken is a small to medium sized dog that originally hails from Japan. These dogs are known for their loyalty and affection, making them the perfect companion for any dog lover. They are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, but they require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy.

They are considered to be one of the oldest breeds of dogs in Asia and are known for their loyalty and affection towards their human companions. These days, they are commonly used as family pets and therapy dogs.

red dog with sad eyes

7. Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is another popular breed from Japan. These dogs are slightly larger than the Kishu Ken, but they share many of the same qualities, including being loyal and affectionate companions. They also require daily exercise, but their grooming needs are a bit higher than the Kishu Ken.

They are known for being very loyal and protective of their owners and make great guard dogs. Unfortunately, they are also one of the most popular targets of dog thieves in Japan due to their small size and value.

8. Tosa Inu

The Tosa Inu is a large breed of dog that was originally bred in Japan for the purpose of dog fighting. However, these days they are much more likely to be found as a family pets. 

Tosa Inu with dark eyes

They are loyal and protective dogs that make great companions but require a lot of exercises and may not be suitable for homes with small children.

Due to their size and strength, they require experienced owners who can provide them with firm training and socialization.

9. Chinese Shar-Pei 

With their wrinkly, intelligent demeanor and long, flowing coats, it is little wonder that Chinese Shar-Peis have been beloved companions for centuries. Originating from China, this dog breed is known for its protective nature, making it a great guard dog. 

Shar-Peis are typically calm dogs and require regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy. They are also one of the longest-lived dog breeds, meaning that they can be excellent family companions even at an early age. 

Along with other popular dog breeds from Asia, such as the Tibetan Mastiff and the Pekingese, the Shar-Pei has rightfully earned a reputation as one of the most beloved dog breeds worldwide. Whether you’re an animal lover or enjoy spending time with pets, there’s no denying these unique Asian dog breeds are truly special!

10. Tibetan Mastiff 

The Tibetan Mastiff is a large, muscular dog breed that is highly intelligent and well-suited to life as a companion animal. Originating from the mountainous region of Tibet, this dog breed has strong ties to Asian culture and dog breeding traditions. Despite its size and strength, the Tibetan Mastiff is beloved by many pet lovers for its loving and loyal nature, and it has become a popular choice for families looking for a dog companion. 

Other dogs that are commonly associated with Asia include the Pekingese, the Korean Jindo dog, and the Burmese cat. Though these dog breeds vary widely in terms of physical characteristics and temperament, they are all seen as loyal companions that embody the spirit of Asian dog breeding traditions. 

Whether you’re considering adding an Asian dog breed to your family or simply admiring these incredible animals from afar, there’s no doubt that the Tibetan Mastiff is one of the most fascinating canine breeds around!

11. Xiasi Quan 

The Xiasi Quan is a dog breed that originates from China, and it is famous for being a smaller companion animal. This intelligent dog breed is known for its friendly and loyal nature, making it a great choice for families and pet lovers alike. 

In order to thrive, these dogs require moderate amounts of exercise and can live in both homes and apartments. Additionally, the Xiasi Quan is hypoallergenic, which makes it an ideal choice for people with allergies to dogs.

With other dog breeds originating from Asia, such as the Lhasa Apso or Afghan Hound gaining in popularity, the Xiasi Quan stands out as one of the region’s most widely loved dog breeds. 

Whether you are looking for a dog that can keep up with your active lifestyle or simply want a quiet companion animal to curl up with on the couch, there’s no doubt that the Xiasi Quan fits the bill. So if you’re considering adding an Asian dog breed to your family, look no further than the versatile Xiasi Quan!

Conclusion

When it comes to dog breeds, there are many different options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a small lapdog or a large guard dog, there’s sure to be an Asian dog breed on this list that’s right for you. From the elegant and graceful Afghan hounds to the powerful and fearless Korean mastiff, these breeds are all known for their friendly nature and gentle temperament. 

Whether you’re looking for a more traditional dog from Japan like the Kintamani Bali dog or something more unique like the Burmese Khyekhoe dog, there is guaranteed to be an Asian dog breed that is perfect for you. So why not explore this list and find your next best friend? After all, as they say in many cultures across Asia: dogs truly are man’s best friend!


Feb
2022

Customs and Traditions in South Asia: A Fascinating Look at a Diverse Region

categories: Travel

South Asia is a region that is home to some of the most diverse and fascinating cultures in the world. From India to Pakistan to Sri Lanka, each country has its own unique customs and traditions that make it special. In this article, we will take a look at some of the most interesting customs and traditions in South Asia. We will explore everything from food to religion to fashion, and learn about why these traditions are so important to the people who uphold them. So if you’re interested in learning more about this fascinating region of the world, keep reading!

One of the most interesting aspects of South Asian culture is its food. Indian cuisine, in particular, is famous for its delicious and exotic dishes. From curries to naan breads to pakoras, there are endless options when it comes to tasty Indian meals. And Pakistani cuisine is just as good, if not better! Some of the most popular foods in Pakistan include biryani (a rice dish), kebabs and naan breads, samosas (fried dumplings filled with meat or vegetables) and much more.

If you are not familiar with South Asian cuisine yet, we recommend trying it out at a local restaurant. You might be surprised at how good it is! And if you’re ever in South Asia, be sure to try as many different dishes as possible. You won’t regret it.

Another interesting aspect of South Asian culture is its religion. Hinduism and Buddhism are the two most popular religions in the region, and both have a long history in South Asia. Hinduism is the third largest religion in the world, and it has over a billion followers. It was developed in India around 1500 BC by various different groups of people who lived there at that time.

Some of these groups had migrated from other parts of Asia, while others were indigenous. The main goal of Hinduism is to reach enlightenment through various different paths, or yogas. There are many different gods and goddesses in Hinduism, as well as millions of temples all over the world.

Buddhism is also a popular religion in South Asia, and it has around 350 million followers worldwide. It was founded by Siddhartha Gautama (who is more commonly known as “the Buddha”) in India around 500 BC. The main goal of Buddhism is to end suffering by following the Middle Way, which means avoiding all extremes (such as hedonism and asceticism). There are also many different gods and goddesses in Buddhism, but they have no real power over humans; instead, it’s up to each individual person to reach enlightenment.

Finally, South Asian culture is also famous for its fashion. In India and Pakistan in particular, the sari (a long piece of cloth that can be wrapped around the body) is a popular form of dress among women. Women from other parts of Asia often wear saris as well, but they are most common in South Asia. In addition to saris, women from this region also wear a variety of different jewelry and makeup.

These are just a few examples of the customs and traditions that make up South Asian culture. If you’re ever traveling through this fascinating region, be sure to try out some of its delicious food, visit its amazing temples and shrines, and take in the sights and sounds of its vibrant cities. You won’t regret it!


Feb
2021

A Path For Permanent Peace In South Asia: Is It Possible?

categories: Awareness

While there are different opinions about which countries make up South Asia, there is little debate over the region’s challenge for permanent peace. Recent wars and assorted conflicts have punctuated the historical prevalence of turmoil.

The reasons for conflicts that have befallen South Asia vary across the centuries. At the core of many of these disputes, have been differences in religion or cultural ideology. It would be easy to contend that peace in the region if ever truly realized, would be temporary at best.

With new peace initiatives on the horizon, let’s look at a brief history of conflict in South Asia and then address the potential for a path to permanent peace in an oft violence-torn part of the world.

What Constitutes South Asia?

South Asia is the southernmost part of the vast continent of Asia. There are a few geographical definitions for the region. Modern definitions of South Asia include eight countries. India is the largest of these eight, which include Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Maldives, and Pakistan.

South Asia has the largest population of five cultures. Over 98 percent of the Hindu population and nearly one-third of the world’s Muslim faith live in South Asia. There is also a vast number of Sikhs, Jains, and Zoroastrians. Over 25 million Buddhists and another 35 million Christians call South Asia their homeland.

Centuries of Conflict

Study the wars and conflicts across South Asia reveals a region plagued by turmoil across millennia. India has dozens of conflicts spread across centuries. There are rare moments of extended peace.

Many of these result from conquests in the name of religious ideology. It may seem ironic that the part of South Asia most notably in today’s news has a limited history of actual wars. Bhutan seems to be spared the tendency for strife, experiencing only Ten Great Campaigns during the latter half of the 18th century.

Nearly all the conflict in Sri Lanka has occurred from the beginning of the 20th century, with over half, including the 26-year Sri Lanka Civil War between 1983 and 2009, having occurred in the last half-century.

Likewise, conflict and turmoil in Bangladesh started with Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971. Conflicts and coups throughout the country have remained constant, the most recent a border conflict with Myanmar.

Pakistan and Afghanistan are the two countries most notably discussed because of ongoing, seemingly endless military conflict. Afghanistan has experienced four civil wars since the first official Afghan Civil War in 1928. Three of these multi-year conflicts have occurred since 1989.

Two conflicts referred to as an insurgency are ongoing in Pakistan, one in Balochistan and another in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Both insurgencies started at around the same time in 2004. It is the continued conflict in neighboring Afghanistan that has been most troubling to the region.

The War in Afghanistan has its roots in the Afghan Civil War that started in 1978. After a coup in 1973, Pakistan began to exert a persuasive yet subtle influence to trigger violence with their neighbor. The Soviet Union was a prominent player in the country, prompting a standoff with the United States.

In the early 1990s, the Taliban began to exert influence across Afghanistan. Using their fundamentalist view of Islam, the Taliban created turmoil in the country. They received military support from Pakistan and financial support from neighboring nations.

On a dark day in world history, the view of Afghanistan’s turmoil entered the world stage. The September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States triggered the most notable modern conflict in South Asia. It has produced a time in which peace has been elusive.

Is Permanent Peach Possible in South Asia?

To gain any hope of sustained peace in the region, peaceful resolutions to centuries of ideologically driven turmoil must be reached. There is hope that peace, at least compared to the violence and conflict that has plagued parts of South Asia could be attainable.

The current focus is on Afghanistan and Pakistan, but there have been limited uprisings resulting in violence in other countries as well. South Asia is a culturally diverse region. Many of the spiritual beliefs inherent to certain countries harbor extremes.

It has been these extreme viewpoints that have fostered much of the violence. As long as these factions, albeit limited in numbers, continue to exert a violent agenda, any attainment of peaceful relations will be less than stable.

South Asia has a history of being plagued by violence and war. While other parts of the world are not immune to conflict, cultural diversity has been a driving force behind many of these conflicts. This is something that is not going to change soon.

Many of the peoples in South Asia fall woefully below the global poverty line. A poverty rate that nears 85 percent of the citizens is another problem for peace. Often, the lure of any type of life better than the day-to-day sustainable living conditions attracts people to nefarious organizations.

Healing the wounds of war is only one key to the promise of peace. There should be a sustainable effort to help improve the conditions still evident, situations that are ripe for conflict. The countries that makeup South Asia have a history of violent turmoil and war.

Peace in a visible part of this region has attracted attention across the world. Can any peace attained be sustained? What the future holds for peace in South Asia will be written through progress. To make peace permanent in South Asia, progress must be realized.


Feb
2021

Exotic Pets in Pakistan – It’s A Thing

categories: Awareness

It’s common in every country and culture to admire and even go so far as to revere certain qualities in animals, especially those in the wild. We see the elephant in terms of wisdom and grace, the eagle as a representation of insight and having a higher perspective. And the lion has long been a symbol of courage, strength, and sheer majesty.

Exotic Animals in Captivity

It is often a source of controversy, however, when we humans try to hold wild animals in captivity, particularly when contained in small, unnatural enclosures in zoos or as circus performers. A common house cat may be perfectly content living its entire life indoors, but the territory of a lion in the wild can range anywhere from 20 to 400 square kilometers. Denying them their natural habitat and way of life is pitted against the public’s desire to see and enjoy these beautiful, exotic animals up close. The situation can become especially concerning–not to mention dangerous–when people choose to keep wild animals in their domiciles. 

Exotics as a Status Symbol in Pakistan

If the lion is the king of the jungle, then the man who owns a lion (or several) is someone to behold. Certainly, it is a brave man that is willing to share his home with such a ferocious animal! As a symbol of wealth and power, it has become fashionable in recent years to collect young lion and tiger cubs and raise them as household pets. In increasing frequency, they are being seen in gardens, occupying rooftop cages, out for walks with their owners, or seated beside them in their pricey SUVs as they drive through major, bustling cities like Karachi and Islamabad. In some cases, in exchange for a fee, their owners may offer onlookers the opportunity to take a selfie with their exotics. In such cases, it’s a not a bad idea for the owner not only to carry coverage for the pet, but also an extensive liability insurance policy.

Big cats aren’t the only exotic animals snatched up by the upper crust. It is not unusual to find pythons, flamingos, deer, bears, wolves, and even giraffes occupying private petting zoos in the heart of major cities. The unlawful trade of endangered Sekker falcons is particularly profitable as they can be sold to Arab elites who use them to hunt Hubara Bustards, a large terrestrial bird in Pakistan that is supposed to be protected. 

Big Cats in Pakistani Politics

In Pakistan, the lion rules supreme. And if a lion is not available, then a tiger will also suffice. Thus, the political leader who is compared to a lion or sher is highly regarded, and it is not uncommon for the sale of lions and tigers to spike during election season. Candidates often delight in parading a chained or caged big cat at political rallies. To the Pakistani, it is the ultimate symbol of power.

Wildlife Trade: A Lucrative Business

It is legal to import lions and tigers into Pakistan, although the government does require importers to jump through more than a few hoops to obtain the necessary licenses and permits. The law requires that imported animals be provided an environment similar to their natural habitat. However, once they are brought into the country, there is little regulation with regard to habitat, nor to feeding, housing, and general care. Additionally, the trade of big cats is supposed to be off-limits to individuals, but because Pakistan is run by its separate provincial governments, they are largely silent on the subject. As a result, social media sites are rife with offers from online animal marketplaces, and it is not unheard of for a Pakistani with a well-padded wallet to pay $9,000 for a baby lion cub.