Pekingese

The Pekingese likes to remind its owners of its regal background, and expects to be petted and pampered. It is not, however, a delicate creature; in fact, it is fearless and fun, and loves having toys to play with.

It is good with children, but comes into its own as an adult's sole companion, being the centre of attention and, preferably, having the run of the house.

Origin and history

This regal, little.Lion Dog - which had been popular for more than ten centuries in its native China - was brought to the United Kingdom in 1860 after British forces had looted the Summer Palace in Peking, liberating four Imperial Pekingese dogs from the women's apartments. Previously it had been forbidden for anyone other than the Chinese royal family to own a Peke, and their theft was punishable by death.

One of the Pekes taken by the British was presented to Queen Victoria; it was appropriately named , Looty', lived until 1872, and was the subject of a painting by Landseer

The Pekingese was first exhibited in the United Kingdom In 1893. The dog who had the greatest influence on the breed in the early 1900s was a large, black and tan male named

Boxer, who was never exhibited because he had a docked tail. Boxer had been obtained by the British Major Gwynne during the Boxer Rebellion in 1900.

Pekingese Puppies

Good points

• Beautiful appearance
• Calm and good-tempered
• Brave guard dog
• Healthy and Intelligent

Take heed

• Aloof, independent nature
• Subject to eye trouble
• Needs daily grooming
• Best for adults only
• Guard against vigorous exertion and overheating In warm weather

Size

Not to exceed 141b (6.4kg).

There is not, as is often supposed, a miniature Pekingese, but within a litter may be found 'sleeve' specimens weighing no more than 61b (2.7kg). Sleeve Pekes are so called because they could be concealed in the flowing sleeves of the garments worn by Chinese mandarins.

Exercise

The Peke will happily trudge across fields with its ownec or be content with a sedate walk In the park.

Pekingese Information

General appearance
A small, well-balanced, thick-set dog of much dignity and quality. It should carry itself fearlessly in the ring with an alert, Intelligent expression. Colour. All colours and markings are permissible and equally good, except albino or liver. Parti-colours should be evenly broken.

Head and skull
Head massive; skull broad, wide and flat between the ears, not domed; wide between the eyes. Nose very short and broad, nostrils large, open, and black; muzzle wide, well wrinkled, with firm under-jaw. Profile should look quite flat with nose well up between the eyes. Deep stop.

Feet
Large and flat, not round. The dog should stand well up on ItS feet, not on its plasterns. The front feet should be turned slightly out absolute soundness is essential.

Pekingese Feeding & Grooming

Grooming

The Pekingese needs daily brushing with a brush of soft bristles. The grooming of the undersize is usually carried out with the Peke lying on its back, the rest of the job being tackled with the pet standing on a table, or on one's lap. Grooming a dog on a table is good preparation for a possible show career

Feeding

A Peke will thrive onJO-150z (283-425g) of tinned food per day or 3,4-1 cup of dry food, and 4-60z (113-170g) of tinned food.

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