Welcome to the Wild World of… Panda Dogs? 
In a twist that’s straight out of a comedy sketch, a zoo in China is facing serious side-eye after their “pandas” were caught doing something that real pandas don’t typically do: panting and barking. Yep, turns out these bamboo-loving, monochrome “bears” were actually painted dogs. Chow Chows, to be exact.
The Shanwei Zoo initially tried to save face by telling visitors that their furry friends were a rare breed called “panda dogs.” You know, just casually making up a whole new species, NBD. But their cover was blown when sharp-eyed guests noticed that instead of chomping on bamboo and lounging around like typical pandas, these “pandas” were acting a little too, well… dog-like. The barking, panting, and generally non-panda behavior gave them away faster than you can say “Paw Patrol.”
NEW: China zoo forced to admit the truth after one of their “pandas” started panting and barking.
The Shanwei zoo admits they painted dogs white and black to make them look like pandas.
The zoo initially tried claiming that the dogs were a unique breed of pandas called… pic.twitter.com/MMoQLD7zuR
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) September 19, 2024
Eventually, the zoo had to admit that these so-called pandas were actually Chow Chows that had been dyed black and white to give them that classic panda aesthetic. Imagine thinking you’re meeting a majestic endangered species, only to realize it’s more like your neighbor’s overly fluffy dog in panda cosplay.
This isn’t the first time a zoo has pulled a fast one, but it’s definitely one of the most bizarre attempts. It seems like Shanwei Zoo thought they could “panda” to the crowd’s love for China’s cuddliest mascots, but the truth came out in the end. Visitors weren’t exactly pleased, and the backlash was swift, with animal rights activists and panda purists alike condemning the stunt.
For now, the fake pandas—er, Chow Chows—might need a new gig, but at least they’ve sparked one of the most ridiculous zoo stories of the year. One thing’s for sure: those dogs are going to need some serious grooming to get back to their original color!
So, the next time you’re at a zoo and spot a panda acting a little strange, maybe take a closer look—you might just be looking at a Chow Chow in disguise.
