The Puganese is a
relatively new hybrid, though the two breeds that make the hybrid have long
histories. Evidence of the Pug was first documented in China at the time of the
Han dynasty. During that time, dogs of the breed were owned by Emperors and
treated as members of the royal family. Upon being brought to Europe by Dutch
traders in the 1500’s to 1600’s, the dogs soon became a favorite of royalty
there as well. Dutch traders brought the breed to Europe during the 1500’s and
1600’s and the Pug soon became popular among European royalty. In many
countries, the breed was given a new name upon its arrival. After the Civil War
the Pug made its way to the United States, earning recognition by the American
Kennel Club in 1885. Legend
has it that the Pekingese resulted from the mating of a lion and a marmoset
that fell in love. According to the legend, the breed was called Lion dogs
because they appeared similar to the ancient guard lions of China known as
Shishi or Pelchie dogs. Many believed that the dogs could protect the palaces
and temples with their mystical powers. The breed was owned by royalty during
this time period and were provided with their own servants. The dogs were
considered so important that should someone be caught stealing one, they would
be put to death; also, a dog would be euthanized in order to be buried with his
master upon his death so that they could be together in the afterlife. During
the Opium Wars of 1860, five Pekingese were found when the Imperial Summer
Palace was invaded. One of the dogs were given to Queen Victoria and the breed
immediately became popular, though as a result of there being few of them, the
price of a dog of the breed was too high for most people. In 1906 the breed was
accepted into the American Kennel Club.