"What?" you might be thinking. And no, were not crazy... we know its February and New Years was over a month ago. But today millions of people around the world are celebrating Chinese New Year (also known as the Lunar New Year). So we wanted to take this chance to wish everyone a very happy and prosperous New Year!
Chinese astrology includes 12 primary signs in the form of animals that rotate every year - 2011 is the Year of the Rabbit. Luckily, the year of the rabbit promises to bring some much-needed peace and tranquility after a hectic Tiger year for most.
For Momo, Chinese New Year is her favorite holiday, especially since her ancestry was highly coveted by Emperors of China. Pugs often lived in the most luxurious atmospheres and at times were even guarded by soldiers! Often called, Lo-sze or “Foo Dog”, breeders would often look for wrinkles or markings that resembled Chinese characters. Here’s a little more background from Pug-World.com about our loveable pugs.
It is well established that the breed appeared first in China and were literally a “lap-Dog”. The Pug or (Lo-Chiang as they were called in china at that time) where highly prized by Chinese nobility. It has been said that the breed dates back as far as 1600BC, although many say the figure to be 700BC. Either way pugs have history.
Pugs were owned by royalty in China and were often given to royal courtiers as highly treasured gifts.
The Pug still carries its royal breeding and heritage with it to this day in the way that they hold themselves.
The history of the pug in china can also be seen in today’s Chinese symbols and ornamentation. The pug is often referred to as “The Lion Dog” and the resemblance of the pug can still be seen in the decretive Chinese dragons and lions used in festivals.
No wonder Momo loves the holiday. :) We hope the year of the rabbit treats you well!
