Pekingese

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History/Origin
Though the Chinese Happa Dog is rumored to be the ancestor of this dog breed, DNA analysis only claims that Pekingese is indeed among the oldest dog breeds. Originally from China, it was first owned by exclusive members of the Chinese Imperial Palace. In 1860, Allied Troops, after invading the Forbidden City, found five Pekingese beside the dead body of Emperor Xianfeng’'s aunt. Lord John Hay then got himself two dogs, which he later named “Hytien” and “Schloff” as gifts to the Wellington royalties. Sir George Fitzroy also snatched a pair for his royal cousins, while the fifth Pekingese went to Queen Victoria of England.

Soon, this dog breed not only became popular in Europe; it also became known in other countries like America, where Empress Dowager Cixi offered Alice, Theodore Roosevelt'’s daughter, a new pet. The breed also became famous in Ireland, under the care of Dr. Heuston. It was said that after establishing his smallpox vaccination center in China, the doctor was awarded two Pekingese by a Chinese minister.

Description
The Pekingese continues to fascinate not only royalties and famous personalities but also common people and dog breed enthusiasts who usually prefer the long-haired types. Aside from its hair, the breed also catches attention by its coat color. Red sable is its usual color, while tan and black are favored color combinations. All-black or all-white coats are also considered striking coats that match the dog's brown eyes and black-tinted face. Among all the colors, however, blond is seen to be a more popular color, especially in dog shows and competitions.

Other impressive characteristics of this dog are its famous bow-legged gait and its petite but cute frame of 7 to 14 lbs and 6 to 9 inches.

Temperament
The dog can be loyal and caring, especially when treated like royalty. However, in able to train this dog breed, owners should convince these pets of the real benefits they can get from training. Once you have already developed a bond with this dog, it will do whatever you please.

Often jealous and stubborn, the Pekingese does not always get along with other types of dog breeds. Change in behavior and attitude may take some time, so for the dog to be friendly and less aggressive, dog owners should socialize and even expose it to other pets. But generally, because the Pekingese can be demanding and often jealous of people or whoever steals the attention of its master, it is not suitable to all households.