Kinds of Pekingese

The Pekingese is a breed of dog indigenous to China. According to the Pekingese Club of America, the origin of the Pekingese possibly dates to 200 B.C.; however, the dog in its present form is believed to have evolved around the 8th century. This small dog was once considered a sacred, royal dog exclusive to China. Pekingese were introduced to the western world after British soldiers invaded and pillaged the Beijing -- formerly called Peking -- imperial palace in 1860. Today, the Pekingese is a popular pet in homes throughout the world.

  1. Kinds

    • The Pekingese is also called "little lion dog," "Peke," "sun dog" and the "imperial dog of China." While experts recognize only one breed of Pekingese, there are many varieties of Pekingese, all determined by their physical appearance. The Pekingese occurs in smaller versions, also called "teacup toys" or "sleeve" dogs, with sizes that begin at 6 inches at the shoulder and a weight of six pounds. Larger versions of the dog grow to 9 inches in shoulder height and can weigh up to 14 pounds. All true Pekingese are stocky, have bowed legs and a short undercoat of fur with a longer topcoat. The dogs are bred in a wide range of colors; however, for breeding and show purposes, the American Kennel Club categorizes different kinds of Pekingese according to standard or alternate colors and markings. All color and marking classifications are identified by codes.

    Standard Colors and Markings

    • The American Kennel Club's standard Pekingese color categories include: biscuit -- 006; black -- 007; black and tan -- 018; cream -- 076; fawn -- 082; fawn sable -- 038; gray -- 100; gray -- sable S 339; red -- 140; red sable -- 155; and white -199. The AKC's standard Pekingese marking categories include black mask -- 004; parti-color -- 038 and white markings -- 014.

    Alternate Colors and Markings

    • The AKC's alternate Pekingese color categories include fawn brindle -- 088; light red -- 340 and red brindle -- 148. AKC alternate Pekingese marking categories include black face -- 058; black face, white markings -- 059; black mask, white markings -- 005; black muzzle -- 056 and black muzzle, white markings -- 057.

    Personality and Care

    • According to the Purina Pet Library, Pekingese are intelligent, bold, independent and dignified. While they are affectionate family pets, the American Kennel Club says that Pekingese tend to prefer adult company. Because Pekingese are generally sedentary, they adapt well to apartment life. The Pekingese̵7;s naturally long hair and short muzzle make them relatively intolerant of humid, hot temperatures. Weekly brushing is required to prevent their long, thick double coats from matting.