About the Pekingese
The Pekingese is an ancient and dignified toy breed originating in China over 2000 years ago, where it was held sacred and could only be owned by members of the Imperial Palace . Named after the city of Peking (Beijing), these "lion dogs" were bred to resemble Chinese guardian lions and were revered as temple guardians . Legend claims they originated from a union between a lion and a marmoset, explaining their lion-like mane and bowlegged walk . The breed remained cloistered in the Forbidden City for centuries, with theft punishable by death, until five dogs were taken to England as war booty in 1860 during the Second Opium War, with one named "Looty" becoming a favorite of Queen Victoria . Distinguished by their massive flat skull relative to body size, large luminous eyes, heart-shaped feathered ears, and profuse double coat forming a lion-like mane, these compact, pear-shaped dogs carry their plumed tails arched over their backs . The celebrated "sleeve Pekingese" were miniature versions carried in the sleeves of Chinese royalty . DNA analysis confirms the Pekingese as one of the oldest and least genetically diverged breeds from wolves . A Pekingese was one of only three dogs to survive the sinking of the Titanic, and the breed has frequently won Best in Show at Westminster . Today, these independent, dignified companions form deep bonds with their families while maintaining their regal, aloof bearing, requiring significant grooming commitment and awareness of brachycephalic health challenges
Breed Characteristics
3.20 - 6.40 kg
15.00 - 23.00 cm
12-15 years
China
Breed Traits & Ratings
Additional Information
Bred For
Companionship as sacred palace dogs for members of the Chinese Imperial court; temple guardians
Temperament
Dignified, independent, affectionate, loyal, stubborn, alert, courageous, opinionated, reserved with strangers, sensitive, charming
