Pekingese

Chinese art throughout the ages abounds with images of the Pekingese, a brave but diminutive dog that has existed in China for thousands of years. The dog gets his name from the ancient city of Peking, now called Beijing. Chinese legend has it that the breed is the offspring of a lion and a monkey. From the father lion, the legend goes, the little dogs received the shaggy mane, tufted paws, kind heart, and great courage. They inherited their mother monkey's dark, dancing eyes, turned up nose, and fun-loving, mischievous ways. Pekingese came to Europe as a result of war. When the British overtook the Chinese Imperial Palace in 1860, they returned home with several of the dogs.

Because of their thick undercoats, Pekes need at least an hourly brushing session per week. They can be in any color. A black face, especially around the eyes, with lines going to the ears, is especially preferred, though not required. They have big, round eyes and a short muzzle.

Excerpts from the Standard

General Appearance



Resembling a lion in his courage, boldness, self-esteem, and independence; not dainty or delicate.

Size, Proportion, and Substance



Less than 14 pounds.

Fun Facts

Pekingese were respected by the Chinese. Only royalty could own them. The punishment for stealing a Pekingese was death. For special ceremonies, the emperor would walk into a room with two Pekingese ahead of him barking to announce his presence, and two behind him, carrying the corners of his robe in their mouths.

Excerpted from The Complete Dog Book For Kids ©1996, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.