Description: Pekingese
The Pekingese is a charming and ancient toy breed that originated in China, where it was cherished as a companion to Chinese royalty for centuries. Known for its distinctive lion-like appearance, flowing mane of fur, and bold personality, the Pekingese is a small but dignified dog. These dogs are fiercely loyal to their families and often exhibit an independent streak, making them somewhat aloof with strangers. Despite their small stature, they have a big presence and a courageous heart. Pekingese thrive as companion animals and are happiest in calm households where they can enjoy plenty of attention and affection. Due to their unique coat, they require regular grooming, but only moderate exercise needs. Their calm nature and affectionate demeanor make them well-suited to apartment living and to those looking for a dedicated, if somewhat stubborn, lapdog.
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Properties
The Pekingese is a toy breed of dog that originated in China and has a rich history as a companion to Chinese royalty. Renowned for its distinct appearance, the Pekingese is a small, compact dog, usually weighing between 7 and 14 pounds, though some can be smaller or slightly larger. They are characterized by their long, flowing double coat which requires regular grooming to keep it free from tangles and matting. Their face is flat with a short muzzle, a feature known as brachycephaly, and they have large, dark eyes that convey a regal and intelligent expression.
The temperament of Pekingese dogs is often described as dignified, affectionate, and independent. They are known to form strong bonds with their primary owner and can be aloof or reserved around strangers, making them excellent watchdogs despite their small size. However, their independence can sometimes be mistaken for stubbornness, so patience and consistency are required during training. Positive reinforcement is the most effective approach, as harsh training methods can make them withdrawn or distrustful.
Pekingese are generally well-suited to apartment and city living due to their low activity levels. While they enjoy daily walks and short play sessions, they do not require a great deal of exercise. Their small size also makes them a good choice for older individuals or people with limited mobility. However, their flat faces make them susceptible to breathing difficulties, especially in hot or humid weather, so care must be taken not to overexert them.
When it comes to health, common issues in Pekingese include brachycephalic syndrome, eye diseases such as ulcers or dryness, and slipped patellas. Their long backs can also make them prone to spinal problems if they are overweight or handled roughly. Nutritional management and regular veterinary checkups are essential for maintaining their health. Socialization from an early age helps ensure they are well-behaved around children and other pets, although their delicate build means they are better in homes without very young kids. Overall, the Pekingese is a loyal, charming, and distinctive dog breed, best suited for owners who can provide the necessary care and appreciate its unique personality.
Appearance
The Pekingese is a distinctive and ancient toy breed, renowned for its unique and regal appearance. This small dog breed is characterized by a compact, low-to-the-ground body and a heavy, abundant coat, giving it an almost lion-like look—a trait that is integral to its traditional symbolism as a companion to Chinese royalty. The most striking feature of the Pekingese is its luxurious double coat. The outer coat is long, straight, and coarse, forming a profuse mane around the neck and shoulders, often referred to as the 'lion’s mane'. The undercoat is soft and dense, providing ample insulation and contributing to the breed’s full and rounded silhouette.
The head of the Pekingese is large relative to its body, with a broad, flat skull and a pronounced stop. The face is short and flat, resulting in the breed’s characteristic brachycephalic (short-nosed) appearance. The nose is typically black, short, and broad, nestled between large, dark, and round eyes that convey a prominent, soulful expression. These eyes are set well apart and are often described as luminous. The breed’s muzzle is wide and flat, featuring a pronounced wrinkle above the nose—often called the 'nose roll'. The jaw is slightly undershot, giving the Pekingese a modest but noticeable pout.
The Pekingese ears are long, heart-shaped, and set at the level of the skull, fringed with long feathering that blends seamlessly into the surrounding mane. The short, muscular neck leads to a sturdy, compact body covered with a thick coat. The chest is broad and well-sprung, legs are short and thick-boned, and the feet are flat and slightly turned out, sometimes called 'lion paws'. The heavily feathered tail is set high and carried tightly curled over the back.
Pekingese can be found in a variety of colors, including gold, red, sable, black, black and tan, cream, white, and even parti-color. Markings can vary, and a black mask is common, especially in gold and red varieties. Despite their diminutive size—usually weighing between 7 to 14 pounds—Pekingese present a dignified and confident demeanor, bolstered by their dramatic, voluminous coat and stately carriage. Regular grooming is essential to prevent tangles and maintain their distinctive appearance. Overall, the Pekingese’s unique combination of shape, coat, and character make it instantly recognizable and highly esteemed among companion breeds.
History
The Pekingese is an ancient toy dog breed that originated in China, with its history dating back over 2,000 years. Primarily bred as a companion for Chinese royalty, especially the imperial family of the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD), the breed was highly revered and closely linked to Chinese culture and tradition. According to legend, the Pekingese was created by Buddha, shrinking a lion down to dog size, which contributed to its nickname, the 'Lion Dog.' This myth helped establish the breed’s association with nobility and made it a symbol of status and luck.
The breed was carefully guarded by the imperial court, and commoners were forbidden from owning one under penalty of death. Pekingese dogs lived in grand luxury inside the imperial palaces, and only members of the imperial family and high-ranking court officials could keep them. They were often used as lap warmers and were adorned in fine silks and other luxurious materials.
It wasn’t until the Second Opium War in 1860 that the Pekingese made its way to the Western world. When British and French troops entered the imperial palace in Beijing, they discovered several of these dogs alongside members of the Chinese royal family. Four of the dogs were taken back to England as royal gifts, one of which was presented to Queen Victoria, marking the breed's first introduction to the Western world. The Pekingese quickly gained popularity in Europe, especially among the British aristocracy.
In 1893, the breed was officially recognized by the Kennel Club (UK), and later by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1906. Since then, the Pekingese has become well-known both as a show dog and a beloved companion. Its characteristic features—flat face, long flowing coat, and lion-like mane—were standardized through selective breeding.
The Pekingese remains an important cultural symbol in China and continues to be admired for its regal appearance and dignified personality. Over the centuries, the breed has maintained its reputation as a loyal, affectionate, and somewhat stubborn companion, making it a popular choice for dog enthusiasts worldwide.