I see skies of blue, and dogs of white

Discussion Open Forum
1

Seeing the photo of ImaniOU’s cat on the “my cat…” thread in this forum reminded me of something that has occasionally puzzled me since I’ve been in Taiwan:

As I understand it, the color white in Chinese/Taiwanese culture is associated with death, funerals and mourning.

If I see people walking around in Taipei with their pets, esp. dogs, these animals are usually mostly or completely white.

Given the meanings of the color, why do Taiwanese seem to prefer to buy and own white pets?

Is this akin to the whiter-skin-is-more-beautfil perception, esp. among women?

2

They think that black dogs are more vicious, and white dogs will be friendlier.

Chinese people also believe that a black dog will give you more internal “heat” if you eat it. White dogs aren’t as desirable for the dinner table.

3

White is the least desirable dog for the soup pot, so the one most likely to be kept as a pet. True, not many Taiwanese now eat dog meat, but the cultural beliefs of our forefathers linger on, influencing us even when we don’t realize it.

4

When a black cat crosses your path it’s BAD luck - if you’re Chinese.

5

Isn’t that across the board and not only in Chinese culture? :s

6

[quote=“Maoman”]
Chinese people also believe that a black dog will give you more internal “heat” if you eat it. White dogs aren’t as desirable for the dinner table.[/quote]
Black dog best. (I hear) followed by
Yellow dog
Spotted dog (or piebald)

Not only are there lots of white dogs here, but they’re mainly white ‘shake n pee’ dogs.

7

If a black cat jumps over a grave, the corpse will reanimate as an evil ghost.

8

Isn’t that across the board and not only in Chinese culture? :s[/quote]

It’s considered good luck in England. Where are you from?

9

I asked gf about the white dog thing. She didn’t think it was true, but speculated that maybe people like white dogs because they look cleaner. :s

10

I wouldn’t doubt it at all in this culture, especially after hearing a few local friends of mine (as well as random locals) comment on the “dirtiness” (sp?) of “black people”. :bluemad:

11

They’ll only look cleaner if you give them a bath every other day, especially here in (OK, I like it, but I have to admit it’s dirty) Taipei. On the other hand, maybe that’s why so many people carry their dogs instead of letting them get some exercise.