Pekingese Dog. Highly suitable for the elderly in apartments, not very playful

The Pekingese Dog was once so protected and revered, that theft of one, would result in a long and painful death of the thief. Chinese bronze objects have impressions of Pekinese dogs going back 4 000 years, making this one of the world's oldest dog breeds.

In 1860 the British soldiers, when looting the Imperial Palace, took 4 of these precious dogs with them to England and presented them to Queen Victoria and other royal ladies.

The Duchess of Richmond established the first strain of the Peke as we now commonly know them.

History	The Lion dogs of China has been associated with the Chinese devotion to Buddhism. They were kept in sacred temples and preceded the Emperor into ceremonies. The Pekingese Dog breed found recognition with the AKC in 1906.
Personality	An independent and confident dog belies his petiteness. He will defend his toys and is neither timid nor aggressive. Can become too dependant on its owners' company. The Pekingese Dog can be aloof to strangers.
Appearance	His eyes dark. Coat in any color except Albino or Liver. Parti color must be evenly distributed. All dogs should be marked with "spectacles" around the eyes.
Grooming	A lengthy weekly brush is absolutely essential. Daily checking the eyes, ears and face wrinkles. Ocassional professional grooming particularly if not given very thorough weekly brushing.
Health	Eye problems, breathing problems and stnotic nares (pinched nostrils), elongated soft palate, seizures and ear infections are the most common health conditions associated with these types of dogs.
Family	Good companion dog, not suitable for children. The Pekingese makes a regal lap dog and is quite possessive over his owner, his food and toys. Ideal lapdog for the elderly particularly as they do not like vigorous walking.
Training	The Peke can be difficult to potty train. Firm but gentle training is required. Separation anxiety is common with the Pekingese breed.
Ideal Home	Little exercise is required so an apartment as this is not a small dog breed known for its' playfulness. Short daily walks though is recommended. Cannot tolerate heat due to the brachycephalic snout.
Lifespan	12 -13 years as with many small dog breeds, if well integrated with a family can live longer.
Purpose	Originally as a royal companion, this tiny tot only want to be a constant and loyal companion to a devoted owner.
Watch dog	Very good alert dog. These toy breeds are bold if he thinks his family is under threat.

Pekingese Dog Royal dog from Ancient China

Pekingese Dog
Royal dog from Ancient China