Pekingese

The Pekingese, named for the capital of China, was once called the Lion Dog for his golden mane and sturdy frame. He was also called the Sleeve Dog for the ability of his master to carry him inside his sleeves. Considered a sacred dog during the Tang Dynasty (A.D. 618-906), the breed is probably older than that. Thousands roamed the royal palaces and no one outside of nobility was allowed to have one. During the second Opium War in 1860, the imperial family ordered that all of the dogs be destroyed so the foreign invaders could not obtain them. Many escaped this massacre, however, and an English officer brought five of them home thus introducing the breed to the West. in the late 1800s, gifts of the breed by Chinese royalty to westerners added to the basic stock from which the modern breed in the West descends. The breed was recognised by the Kennel Club of Great Britain in 1893 and the American Kennel Club in 1909.

The Pekingese should be surprisingly heavy when lifted. It has a stocky, muscular body. The bone of the forequarters must be very heavy in relation to the size of the dog. All weights are correct within the limit of 14 pounds.. Average height is between six and nine inches. The coat is long and straight with an undercoat. Featherings exist on neck, legs, tail and toes. A flowing mane covers the neck. Coat colors include red, fawn, black, black-and-tan, sable, brindle, white and parti-colour. A black mask that extends to the ears and eyes is desirable.

Despite his sweet looks, the Pekingese can be independent, assertive and stubborn. He is not aggressive but is very bold. He has a strong sense of territory and will protect it against all threats. He makes an excellent companion.

References:

American Kennel Club Inc. The Complete Dog Book. 18th ed. New York: Howell, 1992.

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