The earliest known record of the Pekingese is traceable to the Tang Dynasty of the 8th century. They were held sacred in China, their land or origin. The very oldest strains (held only by the imperial family) were kept pure, and the theft of one of the sacred dogs was punishable by death.

Some were called "Lion Dogs" due to their massive fronts, heavy manes, and tapering hindquarters. Some others were called "Sun Dogs" because of their strikingly beautiful golden red coats. Since those early days as many other darker red shades have become identified with certain strains, but even today we see numerous Sun Dogs at shows.

Introduction of Pekingese into the Western world occurred as a result of the looting of the Imperial Palace at Peking by the British in 1860. Five of these dogs were found behind some draperies in the apartments of the aunt of the Chinese emperor. These were her own personal pets. She committed suicide on the approach of the British troops. Throughout the palace the bodies of many of these dogs were found-the Chinese killed them so that they wouldn't fall into the hands of the Caucasians.

Bringing the Pekingese into Western soil has in no way changed his personality. They have a marked dignity with great stubbornness. They love to romp around with their families, and they have a great understanding of their owners and incredible loyalty.

The Pekingese should not exceed 14 pounds. Their coats can be any color or combination of colors. They do require combing at least once a week especially if their pet coat is kept long, and will need professional grooming every 4-8 weeks depending on the desired coat length.

Both parents should be screened for luxating patella. The large, prominent eyes of this breed are susceptible to lacerations, infections, and eyelid/eyelash defects. Because of his short face, the Pekingese is prone to heatstroke in hot, humid, and/or stuffy conditions.