Different breeds of dogs.

PEKINGNESE

by Dennis Fisher.

This article is one of a great many articles written by Dennis Fisher about a very wide variety of subjects concerning different  dogs, such as obedience training, breeding, showing, health matters, training problems and other subjects.  All these articles appear on Dennis Fisher's websites.   Visit  http://www.allaboutgermanshepherddogs.com the site that has been set up specifically for German Shepherd Dog enthusiasts, or http://www.freedogadvice.com  if you interested in a breed   other than German Shepherd Dogs

The Pekingese  originated in ancient China.  As surprising as it may seem for such a small breed, it was  originally bred to resemble a very miniature lion.  It is  heavy in front, but the hindquarters are far more slender.

If one is prepared to use one’s imagination, viewed from the back it does resemble a lion in some respects.   If not in temperament, at least in proportions.

This to breed, no larger than 10 pounds; sometimes considerably less, was bred to a be a lap dog on which one could lavish love and affection and it does thrive on this form of treatment.

It is a very affectionate animal and although some specimens are inclined to snap in an unfriendly manner with strangers, this can easily be rectified with training.  A very mild reprimand in training will also take care of its tendency to sometimes yap and bark unnecessarily.

The coat is long and straight and a special feature of the breed is the heavy coating around the neck and shoulders, very much like a man.   There is also a great deal of hair on the ears, legs and tail.

People sometimes have the impression that a Pekingese, because of its long coat is difficult to groom, but this is not really so.  It needs only a little effort  and a short period of time daily to keep the coat in excellent condition.   Because the bulging eyes have a tendency to water, attention should also be paid to this aspect of grooming.

Unfortunately the breed is sometimes prone to be the victim of attacks by large aggressive dogs.  Care should be taken when walking the dog that this does not occur. Many owners, when confronted by large dogs while walking their Pekes, immediately pick the small animal up in their arms  and carry it.

This is wise.   When attacked,  this tiny little animal is not capable of defending itself. Veterinarians report they often have to attend to the damaged eyes of Pekes that have been injured.

The head is very large in relation to the rest of the body, the chest  deep and the hindquarters, though very much smaller, are nevertheless strong and well-developed.