The eating of dog meat in China dates back thousands of years and it remains socially acceptable.[4] It is thought to have medicinal properties, and is especially popular in winter months, as it is believed to generate heat and promote bodily warmth.The meat is popular in Guangdong and Guangxi[23] from whence it went on the menu for Chinese astronauts to consume in outer space. When food is scarce, dogs are eaten as an emergency food source. Some controversy has emerged about the treatment of dogs in China, not because of the consumption itself, but because of other factors like cruelty involved with the killing, including allegations the animals are sometimes skinned while still alive.
