Pekingese are small dogs of Chinese origin. Pekingese get their name from the ancient city of Peking, now called Beijing. The Pekingese was considered sacred in ancient China and could only be owned by royalty. At that time, the punishment for stealing a Pekingese was death. The Pekingese came to Europe as a result of war. When the British overtook the Chinese Imperial Palace in 1860, they returned home with several of the dogs. AKC recognized the breed in 1906. AKC accepts all coat colors. A Pekingese, in show, is disqualified according to the AKC standard if it weights over 14 pounds.
The Pekingese were originally considered watchdogs. They are independent, intelligent and good natured. Their inactivity makes them suitable for apartment life as they lay around the home like their royal ancestors. Pekingese like a stable environment, without chaos. They are good for retired couples and singles that are looking for a canine child to spoil. Vanier Pekingese are socialized with other Pekingese and Persians.
AKC Vanier Pekingese are healthy, have a wonderful temperament and good type. The Vanier breeding program is comprised of solid white, cream and the particolor variety. Though the other more traditional colors of sable and reds are seen with the Pekingese in the show hall, the white is becoming more readily accepted. Vanier Pekingese are a healthy and loving breed, produced from sound AKC show pedigrees. I serve as a member of the Pekingese Club of Texas and have been a judge for a Sanctioned B Match.
