Zoo admits pandas are painted dogs after online backlash

A zoo in China has admitted its pandas are in fact dogs painted black and white after visitors complained noticing the animals panting and barking.

Shanwei Zoo has been at the center of controversy following clips posted on social media which show the painted dogs being exhibited as pandas.

One clip clearly shows the dogs, with a long tail, panting while resting on a rock. 

Following complaints the zoo organisers admitted they’d painted two Chow Chows, a dog breed originally from northern China, with black-and-white panda markings.

Visitors have since demanded their money back.