Peke
Breed Description

The Peke is known by several distinctive names that reflect its rich cultural heritage and royal background. Most commonly, this breed is recognized as the Pekingese, named after Beijing (formerly Peking), the ancient capital city of China where these dogs were exclusively bred within the Forbidden City. Throughout history, the breed has also been called the Lion Dog, a name that pays homage to the Buddhist legend of the lion falling in love with a marmoset and shrinking in size to be with her, creating the first Peke. Other historical names include the Imperial Palace Dog, reflecting their exclusive residence within Chinese royal palaces, and the Sleeve Dog, referencing the smallest specimens that could literally fit within the flowing sleeves of Chinese imperial robes. In China, they are sometimes called Beijing Quan, meaning "Beijing Dog," while western enthusiasts have also used terms like Chinese Spaniel, Palace Dog, and Sun Dog. The breed's various names all emphasize its connection to Chinese royalty, Buddhist mythology, and its distinctive lion-like appearance that has captivated dog lovers for over a thousand years.

The Peke represents one of the most distinctive and historically significant toy breeds in the canine world. This compact, well-balanced dog presents an image of dignity and importance that has been carefully preserved for over a thousand years of selective breeding within Chinese imperial palaces. Standing between six to nine inches at the shoulder and weighing seven to fourteen pounds, the Peke possesses a unique rectangular body shape that is slightly longer than it is tall, creating a distinctive rolling gait that sets them apart from other toy breeds.

The head of the Peke is arguably its most striking feature, being massive in proportion to the body and displaying the characteristic flat face that defines brachycephalic breeds. The skull is broad and flat between the ears, with a well-defined stop that creates the distinctive pushed-in facial profile. The muzzle is extremely short and broad, with a black nose that sits between large, prominent eyes that should never bulge but rather appear lustrous and expressive. The eyes are large, round, and set wide apart, typically dark in color, though lighter eyes may appear in dogs with lighter coat colors.

One of the breed's most notable physical characteristics is their abundant double coat, which consists of a soft, thick undercoat and a long, straight outer coat that flows gracefully around the body. The coat is longest around the neck and chest, forming a distinctive mane-like ruff that enhances the lion-like appearance that gave the breed one of its historical names. The coat extends down the legs, creating feathering that adds to the breed's elegant movement, and forms a well-plumed tail that curves over the back in a characteristic arch.

The Peke's movement is unlike any other breed, characterized by a dignified rolling gait that results from their unique body structure. The front legs are short, thick, and heavily boned, while the rear legs are lighter but strong enough to propel the dog forward with surprising agility despite their compact build. This distinctive movement pattern, combined with their abundant coat flowing with each step, creates an almost floating appearance that has enchanted dog enthusiasts for centuries.

Color variations in the Peke are numerous and all are considered equally acceptable by breed standards. Common colors include various shades of fawn, from light cream to deep red, black, black and tan, sable, and parti-color combinations. The coat may display various markings, and while solid colors are common, mixed colorations create beautiful patterns that add to each individual dog's unique character. The nose and eye rims should always be black regardless of coat color, maintaining the breed's distinctive facial expression.

American Kennel Club (AKC)

The AKC standard emphasizes the Peke as a well-balanced, compact dog with a heavy front and lighter hindquarters. The head should be large, massive, broader than deep with a flat skull between the ears. Eyes are large, round, lustrous, and set wide apart. The muzzle is extremely short and broad with well-defined stop. The body is pear-shaped with heavy, thick front legs and lighter rear legs. The coat is double with a soft undercoat and long, straight outer coat. All colors are acceptable. The Peke should display dignity, quality, and an impression of opulence. Weight should not exceed 14 pounds, with dogs under 6 pounds being called sleeve Pekes.

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

The FCI standard describes the Peke as a small, dignified dog with a distinctive lion-like appearance. The head is proportionally large with a flat, broad skull and extremely short muzzle. Eyes are prominent but should not protrude excessively. The body is longer than tall with a level topline. The double coat consists of a soft, thick undercoat and long, straight outer coat with abundant feathering on ears, legs, and tail. The tail curves over the back forming a plume. Movement shows a characteristic rolling gait. Height ranges from 15-25 cm with weight not exceeding 5 kg for dogs and 5.5 kg for bitches.

United Kennel Club (UKC)

The UKC emphasizes the Peke's Chinese imperial heritage and distinctive appearance. The standard calls for a small, compact dog with a massive head relative to body size. The flat face should show a determined expression with large, prominent eyes that are lustrous and intelligent. The double coat should be abundant with a soft undercoat and long, flowing outer coat that forms a distinctive mane around the neck and shoulders. The body is rectangular in profile, longer than tall, with substantial front assembly and lighter hindquarters creating the characteristic rolling movement. All coat colors and markings are acceptable with equal merit given to all variations.

Other Organizations

The Kennel Club (UK) standard closely follows the FCI description but emphasizes the breed's fearless character and dignified bearing. The Canadian Kennel Club mirrors the AKC standard with slight variations in terminology. The Australian National Kennel Council standard emphasizes the breed's soundness and typical movement. Most international kennel clubs recognize similar physical characteristics while some place additional emphasis on temperament traits such as the breed's independence, alertness, and devotion to family. All major kennel organizations agree on the fundamental characteristics: the distinctive flat face, abundant double coat, compact but substantial build, and the characteristic rolling gait that defines proper Peke movement.

The history of the Peke stretches back over a thousand years to ancient China, where these remarkable dogs were bred exclusively for Chinese royalty within the walls of the Forbidden City in Beijing. According to Chinese legend, these dogs were created when a lion fell in love with a marmoset and asked Buddha to shrink him to the size of his beloved while allowing him to retain his brave heart and character. This mythological origin story reflects the deep spiritual significance these dogs held within Chinese culture and explains their lion-like appearance and fearless temperament that persists to this day.

Historical records indicate that the breed's development began during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), though some evidence suggests even earlier origins. The dogs were considered sacred and were bred exclusively by and for the Chinese Imperial family. They lived lives of absolute luxury within the palace walls, cared for by court eunuchs who specialized in their breeding and maintenance. The smallest specimens, weighing less than six pounds, were called "sleeve dogs" because they could be carried in the flowing sleeves of Chinese imperial robes, serving as both companions and living hand warmers for the nobility.

The breed remained completely unknown to the Western world until 1860, when British and French forces captured Beijing during the Second Opium War. When the imperial family fled the Summer Palace, they ordered all the Pekes to be killed rather than allow them to fall into foreign hands, viewing this as preferable to the dishonor of their sacred dogs being captured by outsiders. Fortunately, five dogs were discovered alive in the palace by British forces. One of these dogs was presented to Queen Victoria and named "Looty" in reference to the circumstances of its acquisition, while the other four were brought back to England by various officers.

These five dogs became the foundation of the entire Peke population outside of China. The breed quickly gained popularity among British nobility, with Queen Victoria's patronage lending significant prestige to ownership. The first Pekes were exhibited at a British dog show in 1893, and the Pekingese Club was established in England in 1904. The breed was recognized by The Kennel Club (UK) in 1898, making it one of the earlier recognized toy breeds in the Western world.

The breed arrived in America in the early 1900s, with the first recorded import being a dog named "Rascal" in 1906. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1906, and the Pekingese Club of America was formed in 1909. Early American breeders worked to establish consistent type while maintaining the breed's distinctive characteristics. Notable early American Pekes included champions that helped establish the breed's reputation for both beauty and character in dog shows across the country.

Throughout the early 20th century, the breed faced challenges during both World Wars, when many breeding programs in Europe were disrupted or discontinued. However, dedicated breeders in England, America, and other countries worked to preserve the breed's unique characteristics and genetic diversity. The breed's popularity peaked in the mid-20th century when Pekes were among the most popular toy breeds, frequently winning Best in Show at major dog shows and capturing public attention with their distinctive appearance and dignified bearing.

Modern Peke breeding has focused on maintaining the breed's distinctive characteristics while addressing health concerns associated with their flat face structure. Contemporary breeders work to produce dogs that embody the traditional Peke type while ensuring they can breathe comfortably and live healthy, active lives. The breed continues to have a devoted following worldwide, with active breed clubs in many countries working to preserve both the physical characteristics and the temperament traits that have made these dogs cherished companions for over a millennium.

The Peke was developed with a very specific and unique function that sets it apart from most other dog breeds. Unlike working breeds developed for hunting, herding, or guarding livestock, the Peke was created exclusively as a companion breed for Chinese royalty, designed to serve as both a spiritual symbol and a living embodiment of imperial power and luxury. Their primary function was ceremonial and companionship-based, requiring them to possess the dignity, bearing, and temperament befitting their role as sacred palace companions.

Within the imperial Chinese court, Pekes served multiple symbolic functions rooted in Buddhist and Taoist traditions. Their lion-like appearance connected them to the Lions of Buddha, making them spiritual guardians and symbols of protection. The smallest specimens, known as sleeve dogs, functioned as living accessories that demonstrated the wealth and status of their owners while providing warmth and companionship during long court ceremonies. Their presence in the Forbidden City was believed to bring good fortune and spiritual protection to the imperial family.

Despite their diminutive size, Pekes also functioned as alert companions and palace watchdogs. Their keen senses and fearless nature made them excellent at detecting the approach of strangers or unusual sounds within the palace walls. While they were never expected to physically confront intruders, their alert barking served to warn palace guards of potential threats. This protective instinct, combined with their unwavering loyalty to their handlers, made them invaluable as personal companions to members of the imperial family.

In modern times, the Peke's function has evolved while maintaining its core purpose as a devoted companion breed. Today's Pekes excel as therapy dogs, using their calm temperament and intuitive understanding of human emotions to provide comfort to people in hospitals, nursing homes, and other care facilities. Their size makes them ideal for this work, as they can easily be held and petted by people with limited mobility, while their gentle nature ensures they provide comfort without being overwhelming or demanding.

As family companions, modern Pekes function as excellent apartment dogs and urban companions. Their low exercise requirements and adaptability to indoor living make them suitable for people with busy lifestyles or limited space. They serve as devoted single-person dogs or can adapt to family life, though they often show preference for one particular family member. Their function as living companions extends to providing emotional support and companionship for elderly owners or those living alone.

The breed also continues to function in the show ring, where their distinctive appearance and dignified bearing make them popular competitors in conformation shows. Show Pekes must demonstrate the breed's traditional characteristics while displaying the proper temperament and movement that reflect their imperial heritage. Many Pekes successfully compete in various dog sports adapted to their size and physical capabilities, including rally obedience and therapy work, proving that their function has successfully adapted to modern canine activities while maintaining their essential character as devoted companion animals.

The Peke exhibits a unique behavioral profile that reflects their imperial heritage and centuries of selective breeding for specific temperament traits. These dogs possess an inherent dignity and self-importance that sets them apart from many other toy breeds. They carry themselves with the bearing of aristocracy, displaying confidence and poise that seems almost disproportionate to their small stature. This regal bearing is not merely physical but extends to their entire approach to life, as they expect to be treated with the respect and deference befitting their royal lineage.

One of the most distinctive behavioral characteristics of the Peke is their independent nature. Unlike many toy breeds that display clingy or overly dependent behaviors, Pekes maintain a sense of autonomy that can sometimes be mistaken for aloofness. They form deep bonds with their owners but on their own terms, choosing when to seek attention and affection rather than demanding it constantly. This independence makes them excellent companions for people who appreciate a dog with personality and self-reliance, though it can present challenges during training periods when their strong-willed nature becomes apparent.

Intelligence is another hallmark of Peke behavior, though it manifests differently than in breeds developed for working purposes. Pekes are remarkably perceptive about human emotions and household routines, often anticipating their owner's needs and responding to subtle changes in mood or environment. However, their intelligence is combined with a stubborn streak that can make training challenging. They are perfectly capable of learning commands and house rules but may choose to follow them only when it suits their purposes, requiring patience and consistency from their handlers.

The breed displays distinctive social behaviors that reflect their selective breeding within palace environments. They tend to be naturally reserved with strangers, assessing new people carefully before deciding whether to accept them into their social circle. This behavior is not fearfulness but rather a discriminating nature that was encouraged in palace dogs who needed to distinguish between authorized courtiers and potential threats. Once they accept someone, however, they can become quite affectionate, though they rarely show the exuberant friendliness characteristic of many other breeds.

Territorially, Pekes exhibit behaviors that reflect their guardian heritage despite their small size. They are naturally alert and will announce the arrival of visitors with authoritative barking that belies their diminutive stature. This protective behavior extends to their immediate family and living space, and they will fearlessly confront much larger dogs or unfamiliar people if they perceive a threat to their territory or loved ones. This courage, while admirable, requires careful management to prevent the dog from getting into dangerous situations due to their size disadvantage.

Play behavior in Pekes is typically more sedate than that seen in many other breeds. They enjoy gentle games and mental stimulation but rarely engage in the high-energy play sessions preferred by more athletic breeds. Their play style often involves carrying favorite toys around the house, gentle tug-of-war games, or puzzle-solving activities that challenge their intelligence. They particularly enjoy games that allow them to demonstrate their problem-solving abilities, such as finding hidden treats or working through food-dispensing toys designed for their size and capabilities.

Communication behaviors in Pekes are quite sophisticated, involving a complex array of vocalizations, body language, and facial expressions. They are capable of producing a wide range of sounds from soft murmurs of contentment to authoritative barks of warning. Their facial expressions are particularly expressive, with their large eyes conveying a remarkable range of emotions. Experienced Peke owners learn to read these subtle communication cues, developing almost telepathic relationships with their dogs based on mutual understanding and respect for the breed's complex emotional nature.

Within family settings, the Peke demonstrates complex relationship patterns that reflect both their individual personality and their breed's historical development as palace companions. These dogs typically establish a hierarchy within their human family that mirrors their understanding of imperial court structure, often choosing one family member as their primary person while maintaining varying degrees of affection and respect for other family members. This selective bonding is not a flaw but rather an inherent characteristic that potential owners should understand and embrace as part of the breed's authentic nature.

The relationship between Pekes and children requires careful consideration and management. While these dogs can form loving bonds with children, they are generally better suited to families with older, more mature children who understand how to interact respectfully with a small, dignified dog. Young children's tendency toward exuberant play and sudden movements can overwhelm or stress a Peke, potentially leading to defensive behaviors. Additionally, the breed's small size makes them vulnerable to accidental injury from well-meaning but overly enthusiastic young children. Families with children under age six should carefully evaluate whether this breed matches their lifestyle and the children's maturity level.

With older children and teenagers, Pekes can develop wonderful relationships based on mutual respect and understanding. These dogs often become devoted companions to adolescents, providing emotional support during challenging developmental periods while teaching responsibility and empathy. The breed's intuitive understanding of human emotions makes them excellent confidants for older children, offering comfort during difficult times without being overly demanding or energetic when their young companions need quiet support.

Adult family members typically find that Pekes integrate into household routines with remarkable adaptability. These dogs are excellent at reading family dynamics and adjusting their behavior accordingly. During busy morning routines, they may remain quietly out of the way, while positioning themselves strategically during evening relaxation periods when family interaction is more likely. Their ability to sense and respond to household moods makes them valuable emotional barometers, often providing comfort to family members experiencing stress or difficulty.

The breed's relationship with elderly family members is particularly noteworthy. Pekes seem to possess an intuitive understanding of older adults' needs, adjusting their energy level and interaction style to match their companion's capabilities. They make excellent companions for seniors, providing meaningful companionship without requiring extensive physical activity or complex care routines. Their size makes them manageable for older adults while their calm temperament provides emotional support and social interaction that can be particularly valuable for seniors living alone or dealing with health challenges.

Multi-pet households present unique considerations for Peke integration. While these dogs can coexist peacefully with other pets, they typically prefer to maintain their status as special family members rather than becoming pack animals. They may accept other dogs, particularly if introduced properly during puppyhood, but will usually expect to maintain their position as primary companion to their chosen person. With cats, relationships can be quite harmonious, as both species tend to respect personal space and appreciate quiet companionship. However, Pekes may struggle with highly energetic or attention-seeking pets that compete for their family's affection.

Visiting family members and guests experience the Peke's discriminating social nature firsthand. These dogs rarely offer immediate acceptance to newcomers, preferring to observe and evaluate before deciding on their level of interaction. Frequent visitors may gradually earn acceptance and even affection, while occasional guests may be tolerated with polite reserve. This behavior can be beneficial for families who appreciate having a naturally discerning companion that doesn't automatically trust strangers, though it requires patient introduction processes when bringing new people into the household social circle.

The health profile of the Peke reflects both the benefits and challenges associated with their distinctive physical characteristics and centuries of selective breeding. While generally hardy dogs with lifespans typically ranging from 12 to 14 years, their unique anatomy, particularly their flat face structure, creates specific health considerations that potential owners must understand and manage proactively. Responsible ownership of a Peke requires awareness of breed-specific health concerns and commitment to preventive care that addresses their unique physiological needs.

The most significant health considerations for Pekes relate to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure, which affects their respiratory system and temperature regulation abilities. These dogs are prone to breathing difficulties, particularly in hot or humid weather, and may experience snoring, labored breathing, or exercise intolerance. Their shortened airways make them susceptible to heat stroke, requiring careful monitoring during warm weather and ensuring they always have access to cool, well-ventilated environments. Air travel can be particularly dangerous for flat-faced breeds, and many airlines have restrictions on transporting brachycephalic dogs due to increased risk of respiratory distress.

Eye health represents another critical area of concern for the breed. Their prominent, large eyes are vulnerable to injury from trauma, dust, and debris, making regular eye care essential. Corneal injuries can occur from minor incidents that wouldn't affect dogs with more protected eye placement. Additionally, the breed is susceptible to various inherited eye conditions including progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and dry eye syndrome. Regular ophthalmologic examinations can help detect these conditions early when treatment options are most effective.

Spinal health issues, particularly intervertebral disc disease, occur with increased frequency in Pekes due to their long back and short legs combination. Their distinctive rolling gait, while characteristic and desired in the show ring, can create additional stress on the spine over time. Owners should monitor for signs of back pain, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, and changes in gait that might indicate spinal problems. Preventing obesity is crucial for spinal health, as excess weight creates additional stress on an already vulnerable back structure.

Cardiac health monitoring is important for Pekes, as the breed can be affected by various heart conditions including mitral valve disease and patent ductus arteriosus. Regular cardiac examinations, including heart murmur detection and echocardiography when indicated, help identify heart problems before they become symptomatic. Early detection allows for management strategies that can maintain quality of life and potentially extend lifespan in affected dogs.

If you're looking to adopt a Peke, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Pekes waiting for their forever homes.
Due to the changing nature of rescue organizations, please verify website functionality before contacting.