Pekingese

The Pekingese is a small, well-balanced, compact dog. It has a stocky, muscular body that is slightly longer than it is tall. The head is large in proportion to the rest of the body, with the top of the head being massive, broad, and flat. The front of the face is flat. The large, prominent, round eyes are set wide apart with black eye rims. The ears are set on the front corners of the top of the skull, are heart-shaped, laying flat against the head. They are well feathered so that they appear to blend with the head giving it a rectangular look. The neck is short and thick. The legs are short, thick, and heavy-boned. The tail is high set, slightly arched, and carried over the back. The outer coat is long and coarse in texture with profuse feathering. The undercoat is soft and thick. The coat comes in all colours, sometimes with a black mask

The Pekingese received its name from the ancient city of Peking, which is now called Beijing. They were considered sacred dogs regarded as legendary Foo Dog that drove away spirits. They could only be owned by Chinese royalty and were regarded as semidivine and if you stole one of these dogs you were put to death. People without noble rank had to bow to them. When an emperor died, his Pekingese was sacrificed so that the dog could go with him to give protection in the afterlife.

Pekingese are very brave little dogs, sensitive, independent, and extremely affectionate with their master. These adorable dogs can make wonderful companions.

Daily combing and brushing of the very long, double coat are 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. Play will take care of a lot of their exercise needs. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe open area off lead, such as a large fenced-in yard.