History
There are different theories about the origin of the Pekingese breed. Some experts believe it originated from the Scottish Lowlands and was brought to Asia by Dutch traders before being brought back to the West from the Far East. Others believe it is an ancient Eastern breed descended from the short-haired Pekingese Dog. There are also theories that the Pekingese is a miniature version of the French Bulldog breed from Bordeaux, and was featured in decorative artworks during the Victorian era when it rose to prominence.
Appearance
The Pekingese is a compact, well-balanced dog with a regal, sturdy appearance. The ideal weight range is 14-18 pounds for both males and females. It has a square proportion.
Head
The PUG head is large, broad and flat, not domed, with an apple muzzle and no wrinkling on the forehead. The eyes are very dark, large and bulging, giving a soulful expression. They should be bright and reveal enthusiasm when excited. The ears are small, thin, soft like black velvet, and can be either rose shaped or button shaped, with the latter being preferred. The wrinkles on the face are heavy and deep. The muzzle is short, blunt and broad, but not upturned. The bite should be slightly undershot.
Neck, Topline, Body
The neck is lightly arched, thick and long enough to carry the head proudly. The back is short and the topline is level. The body is short and cobby with a broad, expansive chest. The tail is curled as high over the back as possible, with a double curl highly desirable.
Forequarters
The PUG legs are very thick and straight with moderate length, set well under the body. From the side, the elbows are directly below the shoulders. The pasterns are firm without being exaggerated in any way. The feet are not as long as hare feet or as round as cat feet. The toes are moderately split with black nails. Dewclaws are usually removed.
Hindquarters
The hindquarters are thick, muscular and powerful with moderate angulation of the stifle joint. The hocks are perpendicular to the ground. From behind, the legs are parallel to each other. The hindquarters are in balance with the forequarters. The thighs and buttocks are full and muscular. The feet are the same as the forefeet.
Coat
The PUG coat is handsome, smooth, soft, short and glossy but not silky. The colors are silver, apricot-fawn, or black. Silver and apricot-fawn colors should be clear and contrast sharply with the other colors and facial markings.
Markings
Markings are clearly defined. The colors on the muzzle/face, ears, edging of ears, moles on cheeks, thumb mark or diamond on forehead, and markings on back are black. The mask should be black.
Gait
From the front, the forelegs move straightforward with powerful drive from the rear and good reach in front. The feet land squarely with the central toes straight ahead. From the rear, the hind legs move powerfully and smoothly. The knees and hocks neither turn in nor out. The hind legs move in line with the forelegs. Both fore and hind legs move forward close to the ground in a natural convergence. A slight roll of the hindquarters typifies the gait which is powerful, effortless and efficient.
Temperament
This is a steady breed displaying dignity, natural self-importance, intelligence, kind expression, stout heartedness, friendliness, and an appealing, cute stubbornness.
Standard approved: October 8, 1991
Standard effective: November 28, 1991
