Stone dogs in the Leizhou Peninsula information

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The Leizhou stone dogs are historical canine sculptures from the Leizhou Peninsula. They blend the locally-held tradition of totem worship with different ethnic cultures.^[1] In the past, the Leizhou Peninsula was an inhospitable land with relatively few inhabitants. Due the difficulty of bearing and raising children while living in such harsh conditions, the original inhabitants worshipped dogs, which could easily give birth to their offspring.^[1] Numerous stone dogs are widely distributed at village entrances, roads, and gates. The Stone Dogs are an important part of the local cultural history, and have many meanings and shapes. They are roughly carved, and have turned grayish from long term exposure to the elements. They are considered a highlight of the peninsula's culture.^{[weasel words]}

The Stone Dogs attract many tourists from both within China and abroad. The stone dog is a form of art and culture largely exclusive to the Leizhou Peninsula, rarely seen elsewhere within China or the world.^[2]