Originating from China, the Pekingese is undoubtedly a very popular little dog around the world. Believed as one of the most ancient of dog breeds, the Pekingese is said to have developed from the breeds of Asian foxes. Also, the name Pekingese was derived from China's capital city of Beijing, which was then called Peking.
This little breed is the most important dog in the Imperial Household and royals believe that this dog is a Lion or Foo Dog, which can ward off bad spirits. This breed became the favorite of the Chinese royalties for centuries to come, until the last years of the Chinese monarchy. During the Pekingese's fame in China, the citizens are required to bow to this pet and that anyone who attempts to steal or kill this breed will be punished by death.
One of the adorable features of a Pekingese is its flat face but its small, compact and low level body is also as fascinating. The legs of this dog are unusually bowed and this prevented him to wander away from the palace. Moreover, the ears, legs and tail of this breed are covered with thick coat.
The Pekingese has a double coat that requires regular grooming in forms of brushing and combing everyday. Majority of this breeds coat come in colors of red, sable and gold. But colors such as black, white, cream, tan, and light gold are also widely accepted.
Some litters may also come out in colors of blue and slate grey. The nose, snout, lips and eye rims of the Pekingese are exposed and are all colored in black. The Pekingese also gives out a rolling gait and this is caused by its bow legs.
Normally, a Pekingese can weigh from 7 to 14 pounds and stand from 6 to 9 inches. A Pekingese, however, that is lighter than 7 pounds is considered as a Sleeve Pekingese of simply Sleeve. This type is the smallest of the Pekingese family and was very popular across China during the ancient years.
This small Pekingese is called Sleeve due to the fact that during the ancient times, Chinese royalties would carry this breed inside the very capacious sleeves of their robes. When the Second Opium War broke out, the Pekingese almost perished because Chinese royalties ordered their execution so that Westerners would never have them. There were five Pekingese, however, that survived and these were shipped back to Europe as gifts to the royalties.
The temperament of the Pekingese, according to the American Kennel Club, may be described as a combination of regal dignity, intelligence and self-importance make for a good natured, opinionated and affectionate companion to those who have earned its respect. Although small, this breed is highly independent that housebreaking may be difficult at times. It is also sensitive and quite loving to the master and makes an absolutely effective watchdog.
