Sex-linked dwarf gene was applied extensively in layer and broiler breeder.Advance with the diagnostic methods on dw gene and physiological characteristics on the dwarf fowls,it appears promising for applying dw gene in the local chicken improvement.Effects of dw gene vary with genetic structures,but few research of dw gene were based on Chinese local chickens.In this paper,studies of the dwarf fowls were reviewed and the application of dw gene in poultry industry discussed.