Pekingese Breed Description

An Owner's Pekingese Description
Big bulging eyes and a tongue that seems to be perpetually stuck outside of the mouth are a couple of physical traits best known about this breed. I immediately think of one particular Pekingese: my grandmother's. Grandma did not like dogs and especially didn't like little dogs. Even more than that, she didn't like little dogs in the house.

One memorable day she sent Grandpa into town to pick up some things for dinner. He was gone for hours, and when he did return home, he'd forgotten to stop at the store. Instead, he'd stopped by the local dog pound (today's animal shelter). Anyway, he walked into Grandma's kitchen with this white Pekingese under his arm and sat him at Grandma's feet. I will forever remember Grandma giving Grandpa a stern look and saying, "What? You want me to boil it or bake it?"

From that day forward and every time we went to visit Grandma, that white Pekingese would be at Grandma's feet, either looking up at her or following her around the house. The two were inseparable. A lot of speculation has circulated around the family table as to what really went on that day. Some of us feel Grandpa was providing another companion for her, knowing his end was near. (He died not long afterwards.) Others think Grandpa rescued this poor animal out of pity for the dog and out of spite for Grandma.

We'll never really know what happened, but one thing is for sure: I still don't care for the big bulging eyes and that tongue that sticks out of his face. I'm haunted to this day by the image of the white Pekingese at Grandma's house.

 

 

Introduction

Historically, only the Imperial Court of China could own this breed. Over the centuries, the dog has become more mainstream. This dog can measure up to 12 inches at the shoulder and weigh up to 14 lbs. The Pekingese coat is thick and fluffy and comes in a variety of colors. Daily grooming is required for this breed. It is very loyal and protective of its family.

Colors

All coat colors are acceptable and of equal merit.

Living Area

Although the Peke has a thick coat and can tolerate the cold, they do better as an indoor dog. They do not tolerate the heat at all and will quickly overheat. Pekes are not good swimmers and extra care should always be taken when they are around swimming pools, lakes, or major water sources.

Recognized By

CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC

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