PEKINGESE Breed Standards
The history of the Pekingese dates back as far as 2000 BC, when the dogs were worshiped in Chinese temples and were a favorite pet of the emperor. In the early 19th century breeding of the Pekingese reached its peak and although pedigrees were not kept, so-called “Imperial Dog Books,” used to illustrate ideal dogs, served as a standard.
The Pekingese was first brought to England after the 1860 Allied occupation of Peking, when five of the dogs were found in the Summer Palace, surrounded by the bodies of their masters who had killed themselves to avoid capture. The unique breed received much attention in England, where one of the five original dogs was presented as a gift to Queen Victoria.
An official standard for the Pekingese was composed in 1898 and the Pekingese Club of England was founded in 1904. The AKC first recognized the breed in 1898, eight years after its first recorded entry into the United States. Although the breed was welcomed with open arms abroad, its fate in China was far more tragic. After the death of Empress Dowager in 1911, Chinese officials began a widespread extermination of the breed to prevent them from falling into “unworthy” hands. Very few Chinese Pekingese escaped the massacre.
SKILLS: Pekingese is an ancient breed, originating in China. The Pekingese is a well-balanced, compact dog of Chinese origin with a heavy front and lighter hindquarters. Its temperament is one of directness, independence and individuality. Its image is lionlike, implying courage, dignity, boldness and self-esteem rather than daintiness or delicacy. They were the favoured imperial pet. Good-natured and happy, these dogs enjoy family environments, but require regular cleaning if in outdoor environments. Their eyes are very delicate as they sit above the socket rather than within the socket.
SIZE: Size/Substance - The Pekingese, when lifted, is surprisingly heavy for its size. It has a stocky, muscular body. All weights are correct within the limit of 14 pounds. Disqualification: Weight over 14 pounds. Proportion - Overall balance is of utmost importance. The head is large in proportion to the body. The Pekingese is slightly longer than tall when measured from the forechest to the buttocks. The overall outline is an approximate ratio of 3 high to 5 long.
COAT: Coat - It is a long, coarse-textured, straight, stand-off outer coat, with thick, soft undercoat. The coat forms a noticeable mane on the neck and shoulder area with the coat on the remainder of the body somewhat shorter in length. A long and profuse coat is desirable providing it does not obscure the shape of the body. Long feathering is found on toes, backs of the thighs and forelegs, with longer fringing on the ears and tail. Presentation - Presentation should accentuate the natural outline of the Pekingese. Any obvious trimming or sculpting of the coat, detracting from its natural appearance, should be severely penalized.
Color - All coat colors and markings are allowable and of equal merit. A black mask or a self-colored face is equally acceptable. Regardless of coat color the exposed skin of the muzzle, nose, lips and eye rims is black.
CARE REQUIRED: Daily combing and brushing of the very long, double coat is essential. Take extra care around the hindquarters, which can become solid and matted. Females shed the undercoat when in season. Dry shampoo regularly. Clean the face and eyes daily and check the hairy feet for burrs and objects that stick there. These dogs are average shedders.
CHARACTER: 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.
EXERCISE: Some Pekingese are disinclined to take walks and although they don't need much exercise, they will stay in better health if given regular sessions of play activity. Get your Pek accustomed to the leash when they are still a puppy. Some owners have told me their Pek will walk up to 4 miles on a nightly walk. While other owners say their Pek will not walk on a leash at all. Try using a harness (instead of a collar) and a retractable leash.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: The Pekingese are good for apartment life. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do okay without a yard.
TRAINING: They are obstinate, self-willed and may be difficult to feed and are sometimes known to refuse to eat as much to show dominance over its owner as to lack of appetite. They are loving to the point of jealousy.
