Origin and Historical Significance

The Pekingese, also known as the Pekinese, is a toy dog breed that originated in China. This breed has a rich history, having been favored by the Chinese Imperial court as a companion dog. The name of the breed is derived from the city of Beijing, where the Forbidden City is located. The Pekingese's association with the royal family and its unique characteristics have made it a significant part of the breed's history.

During the Second Opium War in 1860, the Old Summer Palace in Beijing was sacked and burned by a combined Anglo-French expeditionary force. The Xianfeng Emperor and his court members fled to Chengde. Amidst the chaos, a British soldier, Captain John Hart Dunne, discovered a lone Pekingese, which he brought back to England and presented to Queen Victoria, naming her "Looty. " This event marked the beginning of the breed's introduction to the Western world.

The Pekingese has a long history of being owned exclusively by members of the Chinese Imperial Palace. The breed was also given as gifts to prominent figures, such as John Pierpont Morgan and Alice Lee Roosevelt Longworth, daughter of Theodore Roosevelt. The first Pekingese in Ireland was introduced by Dr. Heuston, who founded the Greystones kennel after being presented with a pair by the Chinese minister, Li Hongzhang.

Around the turn of the century, the Pekingese gained popularity in Western countries, owned by fashion icons like Alexandra of Denmark and Elsie de Wolfe. Despite a decline in recent years, due to competition from breeds like the Shih Tzu and the effort required to maintain its coat, the Pekingese remains one of the top-winning breeds in the history of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Appearance and Physical Characteristics

The Pekingese is a small, compact toy dog with a long, profuse double coat. This breed has a distinctive flat-faced expression, rolling gait, and regal bearing, traits that originally made it popular among Chinese royalty. The body is muscular and durable, with a compact and low-to-the-ground structure. Their unusual rolling gait is caused by bowed front legs, firm hind legs, and a pear-shaped body.

The breed standards allow a wide range of color combinations, with the majority being gold, red, or sable. Other colors include cream, black, white, tan, black-and-tan, and occasionally 'blue' or slate grey. Albino Pekingese, with white fur and pink eyes, should not be bred due to associated health problems. A black mask or a self-colored face is equally acceptable in show dogs.

Pekingese typically weigh from 3.2 to 6.4 kg (7 to 14 lb) and stand about 15 to 23 cm (6 to 9 inches) at the withers. The breed is slightly longer than tall when measured from the forechest to the rear, with an overall outline ratio of approximately 3 high to 5 long. The sleeve Pekingese, also known as the Miniature Pekingese, is a miniature form of the standard-sized dog, weighing 2.7 to 3.6 kg (6 to 8 pounds).

Temperament and Personality

The Pekingese is known for its loyal, independent, confident, and courageous temperament. The Pekingese's personality is often described as regal and proud, which reflects its historical connection to the Chinese Imperial court.

While the Pekingese is affectionate, it may not be the best choice for families with young children due to its size and temperament. This breed can be somewhat reserved with strangers, but once familiar, it is friendly and playful. The Pekingese's alert nature makes it a good watchdog, although it is not overly vocal.

Health Concerns and Care

The Pekingese has a life expectancy of around 13.3 years, which is slightly higher than the average for purebreds and crossbreeds. However, the breed is prone to several health issues related to its unique appearance. Trauma is the leading cause of death for Pekingese, followed by neurological and cardiovascular defects.

Due to its brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure, the Pekingese is susceptible to eye issues and breathing problems. The breed's nasal folds may contain heavier hair than older incarnations, making them prone to trichiasis. The large eyes are also prone to injury and infection, and the breed is susceptible to various eye diseases such as keratitis, lagophthalmos, and progressive retinal atrophy.

The Pekingese requires extensive grooming due to its double coat, which sheds heavily. Exercise needs are minimal, with a maximum of 20 minutes of exercise per day and two walks per day.

Breeding and Show Standards

The Pekingese is recognized by major kennel clubs around the world, including the American Kennel Club and the Royal Kennel Club. The breed standard specifies various traits that must be met for a dog to be considered show-worthy.

Color combinations are a significant factor in the breed standard, with the majority of Pekingese being gold, red, or sable. Other colors are also acceptable, but albino Pekingese are not bred due to health issues. The breed standard also specifies the ideal weight and height for a Pekingese, with a maximum weight of 6.4 kg (14 lb) and a height of 23 cm (9 inches) at the withers.

The Kennel Club (UK) made significant changes to the breed standard in 2008 to address potential breathing difficulties caused by the breed's flat face. This included removing the clause that the "profile [should be] flat with nose well up between eyes" and adding the requirement that the "muzzle must be evident. " This change was in response to public opinion following the BBC programme Pedigree Dogs Exposed.

Buying a Pekingese: A Practical Checklist

• Check for a reputable breeder who can provide health clearances and ensure the puppy comes from a healthy background.
• Consider the breed's grooming requirements and ensure you are prepared for the time and effort needed to maintain their coat.
• Ensure your home and lifestyle are suitable for a Pekingese, considering their minimal exercise needs and their sensitivity to heat.

Buying a Pekingese should be a well-informed decision, taking into account the breed's unique characteristics, care requirements, and potential health concerns.