The spelling of the word "pekinese" can be quite confusing. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /pəˈkiːniːz/. The first sound is a schwa, followed by a stressed /kiː/ sound, then a /niː/ sound, and finally a /z/ sound. Many people spell this word as "Pekingese", with an extra "g" in the middle. However, the original spelling and pronunciation of the breed's name come from the Chinese province of Peking (now known as Beijing), which is why the correct spelling is "pekinese".
Pekinese is a noun that refers to a breed of small, toy-sized dog that is known for its long, flowing coat, flat face, and prominent eyes. Also commonly referred to as the Pekingese, this breed originated in ancient China and is believed to have been bred as a companion animal for Chinese emperors and nobles.
The Pekinese is characterized by its compact, muscular body, short legs, and a distinctive rolling gait. It has a broad, flat skull and a short, wrinkled muzzle, often referred to as "the lion's head." The breed's coat is abundant, long, and straight, with a thick undercoat, and generally comes in a variety of colors, including black, gold, cream, sable, or a combination of these.
Pekinese are highly regarded for their loyalty, affectionate nature, and ability to form strong bonds with their owners. Though they may appear aloof or reserved towards strangers, they can be devoted and protective of their family members. Despite their small size, they are known for their courage and are not easily intimidated.
Due to their small size and low exercise requirements, Pekinese can adapt well to apartment living. However, they do require regular grooming to maintain the condition of their long, flowing coats. Their stubborn nature can also make training a bit challenging, but with consistency and positive reinforcement, they can learn to be well-behaved and obedient companions. Pekinese are often popular choices for individuals or families looking for a small, loyal, and affectionate pet.
The word "Pekinese" refers to the Pekingese dog breed, which originated in China. The etymology of the word can be traced back to the Chinese language. In Chinese, the breed is known as "Bǐjīng quǎn" (北京犬), which literally means "Peking dog". The name “Peking” is derived from Beijing (北京), the capital city of China. Therefore, the term "Pekinese" is an anglicized version of the Chinese name for the breed, reflecting its origin and connection to Beijing.