I love watching dog shows (ie. "best in show") and watching the Pekingese is always one of the highlights for me. Most people think they are ridiculous looking (which they are) but they always have this determined spirit and royal disposition that makes me laugh. They are one of the slowest dog breeds which I learned after hearing a judge request a handler pick up the Pekingese they were showing as it was walking too slowly! Here's a few additional facts below:

1. They are one of the world’s most ancient dog breeds.

2. Known as the “lion dog”. Legend has it that the Pekingese is the result of a union between a lion and a monkey.

3. They were carried around in the sleeves of Emperors and Empresses.

4. Ordinary citizens had to bow to the Pekingese and only royals could own them (now we know where they get that attitude!).

5. The Pekingese is very difficult to train and have many health issues.