Pekingese
Alternative Names: Lion dog, sun dog, sleeve dog
Country of Origin: China
History: Pekingese-type dogs have been known in China since the TangDynasty in the eighth century. Its ownership was limited to nobility; the theft of a Pekingese was punishable by death. It was known by three names: lion dog (for its heavy mane), sun dog (for its golden red color), and sleeve dog (for its tiny size, allowing it to be carried inside an owner's sleeve). It was first introduced to the Western world in 1860, when the Imperial Palace was looted by the British and five of the dogs were stolen and taken to England, where one was given to Queen Victoria. The breed first came to the U.S. in the early twentieth century.
Physical Description: The Pekingese is a small, stocky dog with a heavy front and light rear, giving it a lionlike appearance. Its head is broad and the wrinkled muzzle is very short and broad, with a strong jaw. The nose is short, flat, and black. The round eyes are large, prominent, and dark. The drop ears are heart-shaped. It has a very short neck; flat feet that are often turned outward; and short, bowed legs. The tail is set high and curled over the back. It is double coated with a thick undercoat and a long, flat, soft outer coat. It has long feathers on its thighs, legs, tail, toes, and ears and a profuse mane. It can be any color, including red, fawn, black, black and tan, or white. It often has a spectaclelike mask on its face.
Height: 8 to 9 inches
Weight: 8 to 14 pounds
Temperament: The Pekingese is an independent and regal dog that is dignified and stubborn. It is not always friendly with children or with other dogs but is good-tempered and playful with those it's familiar with. Its stubbornness makes it somewhat difficult to train.
Activity Level: Low
Best Owner: This breed does well in an apartment with adults and older children
Special Needs: Grooming, protection from heat, socialization, supervision with small children, training
Possible Health Concerns: Anesthesia and heat sensitivity, brachycephalic syndrome, corneal ulceration, intervertebral disk disease, stenotic nares, umbilical hernia
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