A member of the AKC Toy group, The Pekingese is a well-balanced, compact little dog with heavy front and lighter hindquarters.
In the mid 1800's the British invaded the Summer Palace of Peking and stole 5 Imperial Pekingese. Before that time, no one able to own one of these little dogs other than members of the Chinese Royal family and theft was punishable by death.
Their image is lion-like and should imply courage, boldness, and self-esteem rather than prettiness, daintiness, or delicacy. It must suggest its Chinese origin in its directness, independence, individuality, and expression. This dog breed was held sacred in China, its land of origin, in ancient times.
They are a dignified little dog who can sometimes also be very stubborn. They have a long, straight, thick profuse coat which requires regular brushing to prevent knots and mats from forming.
See one of these dogs in action
The Peke is a very compact, short-legged little dog with protruding eyes and long ears. This dog breeds independent nature makes him one of the most difficult of the toy breeds to train.
It is a good dog for a small city apartment, but will be just as happy in a rural setting. The Pekingese stands 8 to 9 inches in height at the shoulder and and is typically 6 to 14 pounds in weight.
This role of this dog breed has always been as a companion dog. Their thick coat needs to be brushed daily to prevent matting. Many owners prefer to keep the coat cut short to simplify maintenance.
Pekes are good with other animals and with children, under adult supervision, to make sure play doesn't get too rough for them. The best home for these guys is inside with their family.
Country of origin: China Lifespan: 12-15 years Colors: Red, fawn, black, red sable, black and tan, silver sable, white, parti-color Known health problems: Umbilical hernia, intervetrebal disk disease, ear infections, eye injuries, corneal ulceration, stenotic nares (pinched nostrils)
"Whenever I hear a dog continually barking, my reaction is one of relief — that it's not my dog making all that racket and inciting the neighbors to call the police." - John McCarthy
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