Like the shoes?

You can always tell a real, edgy international city by the way dogs fit into daily life. The dogs of New York, Tokyo and Buenos Aires are almost interchangeable with their high fashion studded collars, YSL leaches and dyed tails; and their sense of absolute entitlement as they strut the pavements.

What is it about dog owners, the world over that wherever you go, there’s a commonality which makes them feel safe and understood even if they don’t speak the language. The first point of contact rests with the dog. If it is sociable and friendly you can build a network of new friends but if it is testy keep walking.

It is no different here. I meet one such s mutt in downtown Tianjin outside the local garage. She was a schnauzer, I think. Pink dyed tail and wearing pink and white shoes on very paw but the irony was her proud owner would not allow her out of his arms. Both the dog and owner relished the attention with all parties smiling for the camera.

An evening walk around the National Centre for the Performing Arts saw the locals out for their nightly. The owners talk while the dogs sniff and define their territory. These city dogs are a world away from our mutts, Amiga and Chilla whose daily ritual is to chase sea gulls in the shallows at the beach. But I must say I am looking for a trendy leash!