The Pekingese is an aristocrat, whose ancestry can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty. Similar dogs had been known in China since the eighth century, but by the early 1800s they had become the favourites of the Imperial court and no commoner was allowed to own one. However, following the British sacking of Peking in 1860, four were found and brought back to England. Subsequently, others were obtained by more normal means. The Pekingese was accepted for registration in the USA in 1909 and in the UK the following year.

The Pekingese has a sense of humour, but also lots of dignity, which he assumes when the mood so takes him. Mischievous and playful, loving and sensitive, he is reputed to have the heart of a lion, and upholds this reputation by guarding his toys and other possessions. He is courageous and, though not naturally aggressive, will stand up for himself if forced to do so.

Although he likes exercise, he prefers to take it at his own pace, and is not the long country walk type! Strong and heavy for his size, he is, however, easy to tuck under an arm and take anywhere.