Official ICCF Breed Description
Brief Historical Overview
The Pekingese is one of the most ancient decorative breeds, with a history spanning thousands of years in China. These miniature dogs were revered as sacred animals and lived exclusively in the imperial palaces of Chinese emperors. Pekingese were regarded as representations of the lion — a symbol of strength and protection — reflected in their distinctive, majestic appearance. They were carefully guarded, breeding was controlled by the royal court, and export from China was strictly forbidden. The breed reached Europe in the 19th century, following the Anglo-Chinese War, when several dogs were brought to England and became the foundation of European breeding. The Pekingese quickly gained popularity among the European aristocracy, maintaining its reputation as a symbol of elegance and refinement. Today, it is prized for its unique appearance, calm temperament, and devotion to its owner.
General Appearance
The Pekingese is a small dog of solid bone and a slightly elongated, compact body with a distinctly lion-like look. It is characterized by a large head in proportion to the body, a flat face, large dark eyes, and a profuse mane that enhances its resemblance to a miniature lion. The coat is long, thick, and dense, with a soft undercoat, forming a characteristic decorative outline. The forelegs are short, strong, and widely set; the hind legs are somewhat lighter. The tail is high-set, richly feathered, and gracefully curved over the back. Overall, the Pekingese gives an impression of dignity, self-confidence, and balance, combining a regal appearance with a calm, proud temperament.
Important Proportions
The height at the withers is noticeably less than the body length, forming a slightly rectangular format. The head is large and broad, dominating the body and defining the breed’s unique type. The muzzle is short and flat, occupying less than one-third of the head’s total length. The chest is wide, deep, and rounded, reaching the elbows for stability. The front legs are short, straight, and heavy-boned; the hind legs are slightly longer. The tail is set high, following the topline smoothly. All proportions should emphasize the lion-like impression and ensure harmony between the massive head, expressive body, and dignified movement.
Behavior and Temperament
The Pekingese is a calm, independent, and devoted companion. Despite its small size, it carries itself with confidence and dignity reminiscent of a lion’s character. It is alert toward strangers yet remains composed and self-assured. Deeply attached to its owner, it does not tolerate rough handling and demands respect. Brave and determined, it can exhibit protective instincts. Within the family, it is affectionate but not clingy, appreciates attention, and prefers a tranquil lifestyle. Intelligent and observant, it requires gentle and patient training. The breed’s temperament blends loyalty, pride, and noble composure, embodying the spirit of the ancient “sacred lion.”
Head
The head is large, broad, and massive relative to the body, giving the breed its characteristic lion-like expression. The skull is wide and flat with prominent cheekbones and a smooth transition from forehead to muzzle. The forehead is broad and slightly rounded. The muzzle is short, broad, and flat, appearing square when viewed from the front. The chin is strong and well developed, enhancing the breed’s noble expression. The overall impression is symmetrical, dignified, and confident.
Foreface
The foreface is short and flat, with a wide and deep muzzle. The lips are thick, close-fitting, and cover the lower jaw completely. The nose is black, broad, with open nostrils, positioned level with or slightly above the eyes. The chin is massive and well developed, slightly protruding to emphasize jaw strength. The bite is level or slightly undershot. The expression is proud and serious.
Eyes
The eyes are large, round, expressive, and set wide apart but not overly prominent. The iris is dark brown to black, rich and deep in tone. The expression is intelligent, calm, and observant, with a touch of seriousness. Eyelids are well pigmented and close-fitting, without wrinkles or visible sclera. Blue or light eyes are considered a serious fault.
Ears
The ears are heart-shaped, set high but not too far apart, and hang close to the head. Their length is moderate, with rounded tips. The ear fringes are long, dense, and silky, forming part of the breed’s lion-like framing. The ears must blend naturally into the mane. Upright or outward-turned ears are undesirable.
Neck
The neck is short, strong, and muscular, blending smoothly into the shoulders. It is covered by a thick mane, enhancing the lion-like appearance. The neck must be strong enough to support the large head, without appearing coarse. Skin is firm and tight.
Body
The body is compact and slightly elongated, with a strong bone structure and well-developed muscles. The topline is level and stable, the loin short and firm. The chest is wide and deep, with well-rounded ribs reaching the elbows. The abdomen is slightly tucked up. The croup is broad and slightly sloping. The entire structure should convey power, stability, and balance.
Tail
The tail is high-set, arched, and carried gracefully over the back. It is richly feathered with long, straight or slightly wavy hair, forming an elegant plume. The tail complements the silhouette and adds balance. Low-set or tightly pressed tails are considered faults.
Forequarters
The forelegs are short, strong, and heavily boned, set well apart. Shoulders are sloping, close-fitting, and muscular. The forearms are straight, the pasterns short and strong. Feet are broad, slightly turned outward, compact, with firm pads. Weak or long front legs are undesirable.
Hindquarters
The hind legs are strong and slightly longer than the front, ensuring proper balance. Thighs are broad and muscular, stifles well defined, hocks low and firm. Rear pasterns are short and parallel. Feet are compact and round.
Gait and Movement
The Pekingese moves with a slow, dignified, and confident gait. The stride is short but stable and coordinated. Movements are straight and parallel, without rolling or crossing. The forelegs move slightly outward, the hind legs provide firm propulsion. The overall motion must convey grace and majesty.
Coat
The coat is long, thick, and straight or slightly coarse, with a dense soft undercoat. A mane forms around the neck, with rich feathering on ears, tail, and limbs. The hair should not be curly or overly soft. Excessive trimming or artificial grooming is undesirable.
Acceptable Colors
All colors are permitted except albinism and merle. Common colors include red, fawn, gold, black, sable, brindle, and particolors with white markings. White may be combined with any other color. The nose, lips, and eyelids must be black. Colors should be rich and clean.
Size
The Pekingese is a small, compact breed. The ideal weight does not exceed 5 kg; height at the withers is about 20 cm. Males are typically more robust; females lighter and more refined. The dog must appear strong and stable despite its small size.
Faults
Minor deviations that do not destroy breed type but reduce quality include: weak chin, long muzzle, light eyes, weak pigmentation, insufficient coat or mane, soft coat texture, and lack of balance in movement.
Disqualifications
Disqualifying faults include aggression or extreme shyness, severe bite faults, missing canines or multiple teeth, blue or light eyes, lack of pigmentation on the nose or eyelids, upright ears, low tail set, coat without mane, albinism, merle color, or signs of artificial grooming or dyeing.
Important Notes
Judges must evaluate the Pekingese as a whole — type, harmony, health, and temperament. The head should dominate the body but remain balanced. Pigmentation of the nose and eyelids must be dark. The coat must be full, straight, and natural in texture. Movement should be dignified and steady, not hurried. Temperament must remain calm, proud, and confident.
Conclusion
The Pekingese is an ancient breed that embodies elegance, loyalty, and regal composure. The ICCF standard highlights the balance of a massive head, compact body, lion-like mane, and confident character. Only dogs that fully meet the ICCF standard and possess official documentation confirming their origin and breeding eligibility may participate in shows or breeding. The Pekingese remains a true symbol of nobility — a living heritage of ancient China and an exceptional companion dog worldwide.
