The Pekingese originated in China, although when and how is unknown because it is such an old breed. It was very common in China for nobles to breed small, flat-faced companion dogs, such as the Pug, Pekingese, and Shih-tzu. The Pekingese was unknown in the west until during the Second Opium War, British and French troops found 5 Pekingese that belonged to the Xianfeng Emperor's aunt in the Old Summer Palace in Beijing. During the invasion of the palace, most other members of the royal family had killed their Pekingese, as they believed that was better than their dogs falling into the hands of the enemy. Two of these dogs were gifted to the Duchess of Wellington, two were gifted to the Duke and Duchess of Richmond and Gordon, and the last was gifted to Queen Victoria. This gave the breed plenty of exposure in the western world.